Building Bridges for Thriving in 2025
January 9 2025
The response to my last post has been encouraging, showing that many Etobicoke residents share the desire to see progress and updates in our communities. We are not alone, there are many voices speaking out! While some are ready to take bold steps, it’s important to acknowledge that for most, change often begins with small, thoughtful actions. Progress doesn’t always happen overnight and taking those first baby steps can be just as valuable as more dramatic efforts. Together, whether big or small, our actions can pave the way for a future that reflects the community we want to build.
Happy New Year!
2025 is already seems to be presenting a pivotal moment in our community’s future. With Toronto’s budget consultations on the horizon, the outcome of a federal Liberal leadership race, and the potential for an early provincial election in Ontario, we find ourselves at a rare crossroads where decisions will impact every level of government. These moments are an opportunity for us to influence the direction of policies and ideas. While it might feel like a lot to take on, this is our chance to start conversations, raise our voices, and slowly but surely help guide the future of our community.
Budget Engagement
Toronto’s budget consultations are a chance for us to make our needs known, and even if you’re not an expert on budgeting, your input matters. Whether you attend an in-person meeting or submit feedback online, this is an opportunity to help ensure that key issues—like housing, transit, and community services—are included in the city’s plans. If you’re unsure where to start, local town halls or online consultations can be a great entry point. Every small piece of feedback helps shape the bigger picture. The staff drafted budget will be released on Monday by the City Council Budget Committee and I will have more for you in the coming week with dates and details that emerge from that meeting.
Federal Liberal Leadership - Be Informed
The federal Liberal leadership race is an event that will influence policies with direct consequences for our community. While it may seem far removed from day-to-day concerns, engaging with the leadership race is a chance to help shape the future direction of the country. Take some time to learn about the candidates, follow the discussions, and get involved in the conversation. If you’re interested, consider joining the Liberal Party of Canada to vote in the leadership race—it’s one more way to contribute to a larger conversation that will affect us all. Even if this leads to a spring election and places a new party in power in Ottawa, this is a good time to evaluate how the federal government connects to you locally and what the community needs to see from future federal governments. As more information becomes available I will be sure to send out further updates.
Prepare for Ontario's Provincial Election
Rumours abound, it's pretty safe to say a provincial election is on the horizon, and now is the time to start thinking about the issues that matter most to you and your community. As parties start to nominate candidates, take advantage of calls and knocks on the door and ask about the matters that mean the most to you. Keep in mind that conversations with neighbors, family, and local groups can help us understand how our priorities align and where we need to advocate for change. Even short chats about issues like affordable housing, climate action, and transit (remember GO Transit and Metrolinx are a provincial jurisdiction) can make a big difference. Be sure to check your voter registration and familiarize yourself with the candidates in your riding. Together, we can ensure that these issues are part of the conversation during the campaign, whenever that may be, even if we need to go to the polls in a snowstorm, it's worth it!
What Else Can I Do?
If you want to get more involved in shaping Etobicoke’s future, here are some simple steps you can take:
Attend local council meetings or watch them online to stay informed about local decisions.
Write letters to elected officials about issues that are important to you—whether it’s about transit, housing, or other community needs.
Volunteer with advocacy groups that focus on the issues you care about, like affordable housing, climate action, or transit improvements.
Join neighborhood initiatives to build stronger, more connected communities in your area.
Every small action you take helps build a stronger, more engaged community.
Change can be challenging, and it’s normal to feel hesitant at times. But even the smallest steps contribute to a bigger shift. The power to make Etobicoke a thriving, vibrant community is in our hands. We have the potential to lead the way, showing that progress doesn’t require drastic moves—it starts with conversations, small efforts, and the collective will to improve our community. Together, we can build bridges to a better future, step by step.
Let’s keep moving forward, no matter how small the steps may seem, because every step counts.