By Lincoln DePradine

Measures outlined in the City of Toronto’s 2025 budget mark “one of the most ambitious financial plans in our city’s history”, according to councilor Jamaal Myers.

“For those of you that are struggling, relief programs are available to support low-income seniors and residents with disabilities,” Myers said in a written and an audio-visual message to his constituents of Scarborough North.

A corporate lawyer, Myers was elected to City Council in November 2022. His responsibilities include serving as chairman of the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC).

Myers, in his message, referred to what he considered highlights of the budget, such as spending on public transit infrastructure and the freezing of TTC fares “for the second year in a row. This budget reflects our shared priorities of affordability, transit improvements, community services, public safety and sustainability”.

He also pointed to other budget proposals such as plans for “fixing six TTC stations, including Kennedy and Scarborough Town, to ensure our stations are safe, clean and orderly”; as well as “extending Sunday hours at 67 libraries and increasing recreation facility operating hours”; broadening “school food programs to support 8,000 more students”; and “providing rent support to 300 additional households”.

In Scarborough North, the “progress and investments” that have been made include the conversion of Farquharson Park—an old baseball diamond —into a cricket facility, “reflecting the growing popularity of cricket in our community”, said Myers.

Myers and his colleagues at City Council will be voting on the budget on Tuesday, February 11.

“While this budget makes historic strides in investing in our infrastructure, I recognize the challenges posed by this year’s property tax increase. A 5.4 percent residential property tax hike, combined with a 1.5 percent increase in the City Building Fund, translates to 6.9 percent or an additional $19.83 per month for the average Toronto homeowner,” said Myers.

“I acknowledge that after years of underinvestment in our assets and services, this budget makes concrete strides toward repairing aging infrastructure, maintaining essential services, and preparing for the future,” he added.

“However, I also acknowledge, having grown up in Scarborough in a single-parent household, that every dollar counts for a lot of us and that many families, including those that own homes, are struggling.” 

A coalition of organizations, including labour groups, is planning to rally outside City Hall at Nathan Phillips Square during Tuesday’s budget debate.

The aim is “to let council know this is no time for cuts”, rally organizers say.

“This year’s proposed budget includes increased investments into vital community services such as affordable housing, transit, and a student nutrition program; but, this funding won’t be guaranteed unless City Council votes to support it. It’s time to send a strong message: we need to fund a city where everyone can thrive.” 

LJI reporter

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