From Parking Woes to Patient Care: A Call to Action in Etobicoke
April 4 2024
Rallying Support: Advocating for Accessible Healthcare in Etobicoke
In the bustling streets near Islington Village, a beacon of healthcare hope awaits at 4740 Dundas Street West. Two local doctors are on a mission to open the Westgrove Family Medicine Clinic, a haven for families seeking quality medical care in their neighborhood.
Yet, this endeavor faces an unexpected obstacle: zoning regulations mandating an unusually high parking ratio for medical facilities (a decades old bylaw exclusive to Etobicoke). Despite the clinic's proactive measures to minimize parking demand and its convenient proximity to public transit options, a shortage of 16 parking spaces stands in the way of progress.
The discrepancy has sparked a debate among local residents. While many recognize the urgent need for accessible healthcare services, concerns over potential traffic congestion and street parking woes have emerged. In the midst of these discussions, local Ward 2 Councillor Stephen Holyday seems to have taken a stance by a letter submitted to the Etobicoke York Committee of Adjustment overseeing this issue, seemingly prioritizing the grievances of a vocal minority over the broader healthcare needs of the community.
This is a situation that underscores the delicate balance between individual concerns and the collective well-being of the community. While parking issues are valid, they must be weighed against the critical need for healthcare access, particularly in areas where family doctors are in short supply. It also needs to be taken into consideration that the doctor’s leading this clinic have already found ways to mitigate the parking issues so that this will not even be a problem as some in the neightbourhood are making it out to be.
As the Westgrove Family Medicine Clinic navigates the complexities of zoning hurdles, they need the support of the community now more than ever. You can make a difference by adding your name to a petition advocating on behalf of the clinic and sending letters of support to local officials, emphasizing the importance of accessible healthcare for all residents of Etobicoke. Here is the link to the website that has the clinic's full story and links to the petition and those with whom to send emails to support them in this unfortunate fight to open - https://www.westgrovemedical.ca/
Together, we can ensure that the voice of the greater community is heard loud and clear. By rallying behind the cause of healthcare accessibility, we can pave the way for a healthier, happier future for Etobicoke residents.
In the end, let us not lose sight of the ultimate goal: to create a community where quality medical care is within reach for all, regardless of parking ratios or zoning regulations. With your support, we can turn this vision into a reality, one patient at a time.
Petition Link
https://you.leadnow.ca/petitions/bring-westgrove-family-medicine-clinic-to-etobicoke
Application Link
Opinionated Observations: My Take On Current Affairs
Today I start a new series where you get my opinion on things I feel strongly about. You may not always agree and that is okay; I am just putting out things that in my opinion others need to start talking about and getting a local discussion started is why we are here!
Mobilizing for Change: Uniting Against the Impact of Right-Leaning Politics
In the face of mounting challenges to our social fabric and public services, the imperative for advocacy groups to embrace political engagement has never been more pressing. Across the country, the grip of right-leaning politics threatens to undermine the very foundations of our schools, healthcare systems, and social cohesion. To stop this downward spiral and secure a brighter future for generations to come, the time has come for advocacy groups to forge alliances with those committed to progress and mobilize voters like never before.
In recent years, the impact of right-leaning policies has reverberated throughout our communities, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. From underfunded schools grappling with school buildings falling apart and educators lacking needed resources to strained healthcare systems struggling to meet the needs of just keeping doors open and enough staff in place to keep beds available, the consequences of political power plays are felt far and wide.
For too long, advocacy groups have grappled with the daunting task of effecting change within the confines of non-partisan neutrality. Yet, as the stakes grow higher and the urgency of the moment becomes undeniable, the need for a paradigm shift in approach becomes increasingly apparent.
Aligning with those who share a vision for a more equitable and compassionate society isn't just a strategic maneuver—it's a moral imperative. By uniting with opposition parties and amplifying the voices of those marginalized by right-leaning policies, advocacy groups can harness the power of collective action to challenge the status quo and demand accountability from those in power.
But political engagement doesn't stop at the ballot box—it begins with a concerted effort to mobilize voters and ensure their voices are heard. Already it is very obvious, even two years away until the 2026 provincial election, the fate of our schools, healthcare systems, and the well-being of future generations hangs in the balance. Now more than ever, there is urgency among advocacy groups to galvanize communities, dispel apathy, and inspire meaningful civic participation.
Our children and grandchildren deserve better than the legacy of neglect and indifference that current right-leaning politics threatens to bestow upon them. They deserve schools where they can thrive, healthcare systems that prioritize their well-being, and a society that values their inherent worth.
As advocates for change, we cannot afford to remain on the sidelines as the future of our home hangs in the balance. By embracing political mindedness, aligning with those who share our vision for a better tomorrow, and mobilizing voters to make their voices heard, we can chart a course towards a more just, equitable, and compassionate future for all.
One Last Thing …
Civic101 Part 2 - Community Architect: Designing Your Civic Engagement Plan
I am thrilled to announce the return of the Civic101 series that I started last summer here in the pages of The Etobicoke Voice. First we looked at using our own stories to make change and now we will look at how to take our passions and local concerns and transform them into action and positive change. This course is designed to empower you to become a community leader and active citizen. Starting this Sunday, April 7, I invite you to embark on a journey of discovery, learning, and action towards making a meaningful impact in our communities throughout Etobicoke and beyond.
This is not just another email course with a few lines and little substance; it's an immersive and personalized experience crafted to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to effect needed change where it matters most: right here at home. Over the course of several weeks, I will guide you through a comprehensive exploration of civic engagement, providing you with the tools and resources you need to develop a personalized civic engagement plan tailored to your interests and the unique needs of our community.
Each week, you'll receive a new lesson directly to your inbox, covering a range of topics essential for effective civic leadership and engagement. From self-reflection and understanding your passions to researching community issues, setting SMART goals, building a strong support network, and overcoming common challenges; the lessons will empower you with practical insights, actionable strategies, and real-world examples to inspire and guide your journey as a community advocate.
Whether you're a seasoned community activist, a concerned citizen eager to make a difference, or someone just starting out on your civic engagement journey, Community Architect has something to offer everyone. Our inclusive and supportive learning environment welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and levels of experience, united by a shared commitment to building a brighter, more inclusive, and equitable future for Etobicoke. New for this course is that there will be a private Facebook Group for those who want to connect with other participants and me in this journey!
So mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details! The first week begins this Sunday, April 7th. Join us as we come together to learn, grow, and make a difference in our community. Together, let's write the next chapter in the story of Etobicoke, one filled with hope, progress, and meaningful change.
Let me know if you have story ideas, tips, or event listings that you would like to see appear on these pages and I will try to make it happen!
You can always leave a comment or send an email to TheEtobicokeVoice@gmail.com
The Etobicoke Voice is now on Threads and Instagram, just look us up by name.
Do you want to become more active in Etobicoke Road Safety? If so check out Etobicoke-Centre Community Impact Network and their Road Safety Working Group who will be meeting for the first time virtually later this month. Check out the site and sign up to get on the list https://eccinetwork.blogspot.com/p/working-groups.html
Great newsletter and totally agree about advocacy groups working together.