Response from Mark Grimes, Ward 6 Candidate, Election 2006

1.   HBSCA has many members that work downtown. Currently, there is no quick, direct transit route. If elected, what action will you take to facilitate the installation of an Express bus between Humber Bay Shores and downtown Toronto?  How soon after the election would this installation be completed?

Getting an express bus service to downtown for the residents of Humber Bay  Shores remains a top priority for me. In reference to this, I introduced a motion at the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) asking for a pilot project to validate the demand for such a service. One of the challenges that the TTC is facing is a shortage of buses, which has been a factor in delaying the trial. However, I will continue to work with the HSBCA Traffic and Transportation Committee on this initiative and other transportation related issues to ensure that they are addressed in a timely manner.

2.   Humber Bay Shores is undergoing exponential growth, causing traffic jams at peak periods. HBSCA advocates the installation of traffic lights before construction of a new development begins, where traffic lights are part of those plans. If elected, what action will you take to assure support for that principle by City Council?

     I have met with the Executives of the Humber Bay Shores Condominium Association and the new developer of the Legion Road site in early October. I have a commitment from the developer that traffic lights at Legion Road will be installed prior to any condominium construction. I understand that having traffic lights installed at Legion Road is a very important issue to local residents and I will work to ensure that these types of issues are addressed prior to construction for any future developments in the area. 

3.   Humber Bays Shores is experiencing significant gaps in community services and infrastructure. What is your vision for addressing our need for additional transit, upgrades to the road system, schools, libraries, police, fire halls, and containing odours from the sewage treatment plant on Queensway and the Humber River? If elected, how will you fulfill that vision within your mandate?

I will continue to work very closely with HBSCA on an ongoing basis to address the needs of the community as they change over the coming years. Please find below a list of some of my work in your community:

·     Introduced motion for staff to review a Lay-by (i.e. additional drop-off and pick-up areas) on Lake Shore Blvd. W.

·     I have had meetings with TTC staff to explore the possibility of a dedicated streetcar track to downtown Toronto.

·     Currently working with HBSCA, City staff and TTC staff to implement a TTC express bus to downtown Toronto.

·     As new development moves forward, I will work with key stakeholders to ensure the proper services are being provided to Humber Bay Shores.

·     Introduced motions at City Council to ensure that City funds are allocated in the budget to eliminate odours from the Humber Bay Treatment Plant once and for all (construction is now underway and it will continue over the next few years). 

4.   How will you assure that capital improvements and related maintenance to the area will stay integral to developments planned for the Humber Bay Shores area?

In light of the recent developments in the Humber Bay Shores area, I understand that capital improvements and related maintenance is of utmost importance to both you and to me.

To increase and promote more green space, I had the Urban Forestry Department of the City plant more than fifty trees along the North side of Lake Shore Blvd. W. The planting locations were chosen in conjunction with the Humber Bay Shores Beautification Committee.

I have and will continue to work with HBSCA, City staff and developers to secure funding for area projects. An example of this would be securing funding for the construction of a Village Court at the center of the Humber Bay Shores community.

Furthermore, residents of the Newport Beach and the surrounding buildings will recall my work in reinstating the Newport Beach pond this past summer. I believe that this pond is imperative to enhancing the community spirit during the summer months.

5.   How do you plan to strengthen the identity of Humber Bay Shores and support our role in representing this community?

     As being one of Etobicoke-Lakeshore’s newest and fastest growing communities, it is important that the local City Councillor work alongside the HBSCA and the City to help brand and promote the community. Once this area is built out, it will be a showcase waterfront destination in the City of Toronto.

I will support all ongoing efforts by being actively involved in the HBSCA committee meetings along with City staff and ensuring that your concerns are heard and addressed in a timely manner.

6.   Why should we, as constituents of this area support your election?

I have worked hard and long with all the residents of Humber Bay Shores and I have delivered positive results for the community. The following are some goals I have achieved in this term:

·     Promoting quality retail on the Lakeshore through the storefront façade program and the Business Investment Attraction Tours/Presentations and also working with the local business associations to improve their areas.

·     Increasing the speed limit on the Lake Shore Blvd. W. off-ramp from the Gardiner Expressway from 60 km/hr to70 km/hr.

·     Cleaning up the Humber Bay loop tunnel and ensuring the cleanliness of the loop regularly.

·     Addressing the foul odours emanating from the Humber Bay Treatment Plant and securing funds to eliminate the problem once and for all.

·     Reinstating the Newport Beach Pond.

·     Preserving the area’s heritage by naming streets after historical sites.

·     Holding community traffic meetings to discuss matters of transportation and safety.

·     Working to beautify the orphan spaces on the north side of Lake Shore Blvd. W.

·     Effectively worked with the Humber Bay Shores Condominium Association. 

For more information please visit my re-election website at www.reelectmarkgrimes.ca