Key Whitby Updates from the Address of Mayor Roy

At the Address of Mayor Roy, Mayor Elizabeth Roy shared her vision for a thriving, sustainable community. Addressing local business leaders and residents, she spoke about the town’s progress and challenges in housing, economic development, and community care.

On housing, she highlighted Whitby’s efforts to meet Ontario’s mandate of 18,000 new units by 2031. In 2023, the town exceeded 80% of its target and received $4 million from the province. A $24.9 million grant from the Housing Accelerator Fund supports new initiatives, including covering permit fees for accessory apartments. “If you want to build an accessory apartment, the permits for that will be paid through by the town of Whitby with this funding,” she explained.

Whitby is also collaborating with Habitat for Humanity to build 40 new units in the downtown area, with construction set to begin this year. “We have lands that we own and have contributed towards Habitat for Humanity,” she said.

In terms of sustainability, Whitby’s Zero-Carbon Plan aims to reduce emissions by 2030. The town has also been expanding its electric vehicle charging network, though Roy acknowledged the need for many more stations. Efforts also focus on green building standards for new developments.

On economic development, Roy emphasized the importance of community connections. “I’ve had meetings with representatives of different businesses who didn’t even know each other,” she said.

Whitby is also reviewing development charges and supporting not-for-profits with mentorship and resources. “I’m actually bringing them back together in a month’s time to have a conversation of how can we support you,” she said.

Roy also defended local franchises, like McDonald’s and UPS, for their contributions to Whitby’s economy. “Mike Forman, who owns most of McDonald’s in our community, is one of the biggest donors to Hospice, Grandview, and the hospital,” she said.

Another key initiative is “Service Whitby,” a one-stop shop for residents and businesses to access town services. “It’s making it easier for all of us to access that one central place.”

The conversation also touched on homelessness. Roy shared how Whitby’s outreach workers are helping unhoused individuals. “Many of them live on the streets. And that’s the one thing that they have,” she explained, referring to those who struggle with addiction or mental health issues.

She also highlighted Whitby’s low-barrier shelter, 1635, which has successfully helped 20 people find stable housing.

Looking ahead, Whitby plans to expand transitional housing. “We’re looking for funding for that,” she said, calling for community partnerships to provide the support needed for reintegration.

In closing, Roy’s message highlighted the importance of partnerships in supporting the community. Ontario Shores’ collaboration with local organizations is a key example of how providing services helps individuals thrive. It’s all about the delivery of these partnerships and the full wraparound services that empower people to succeed and lift them up.

 

Written by Isabella Conforti