Welcome to my Council Page where I will try and post everything Official; Council links, agendas, official press releases, anything the Town releases or other information that might be important to residents of Ward 2 and the Town.
October 3, 2022
I’ve enjoyed knocking on doors in Ward 2 and it’s wonderful to see so many kind and interested people in Town. Here’s a quick video about one question I am often asked. . . .
October 1, 2022
The Town’s annual Thanksgiving Food Drive is on from October 3rd to October 7th in support of the Newmarket Food Pantry. If you are out grocery shopping this week and can afford to share with those who need our help, please pick-up an extra item or two. Especially at Thanksgiving, any non-perishable food items and/or toiletries will be appreciated. Drop off at the Town Office, 395 Mulock Dr between 8:30 and 4:30 October 3rd through 7th.
September 30, 2022
Earlier today the Town hosted a Community come together event to honour the lost children and Survivors of residential schools. Many residents attended the reflection event and a commitment to reconciliation. It was also Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led day honouring the children who survived Residential Schools while remembering those who did not. You can learn more here: https://www.newmarket.ca/indigenous
September 29, 2022
A reminder that tomorrow, Friday, September 30, is National Truth and Reconciliaton Day.
The Town is hosting a Community come together event to honour the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. The Community is encouraged to attend with reflection and a commitment to reconciliation. Join us at 3 pm on Friday, September 30 at the Fairy Lake Park Amphitheatre.
September 28, 2022
The Town of Newmarket along with our community partners, including the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association have created a draft action plan for Dismantling Anti-Black Racism. We invite the community and stakeholders to review it and provide feedback, by November 7 please.
September 28, 2022
September 27, 2022
The Town of Newmarket marks Canada’s annual celebration of Arts and Culture by participating in an immersive three-week long Festival. Celebrations begun last Saturday and continue through to October 16th! There’s a variety of events in different locations and it’s all free. Find out more here: newmarket.ca/culturedays
In case you didn’t know, the Newmarket Public Library invites you to join in the launch of The Canadian Library, an art exhibition that promotes awareness and honours missing and murdered Indigenous women and children. The project, which has launched in libraries, museums, and stores across Canada, features books wrapped in Indigenous-inspired fabric with the names of those lost printed on the spines. The stories of these individuals can be found on The Canadian Library’s website to ensure they will not be forgotten. This Wednesday, September 28th, from 2 pm to 3 pm. Info: newmarketpl.ca
September 26, 2022 A reminder that there is a MEET THE CANDIDATES event hosted by the Newmarket Chamber of Commerce tomorrow, Tuesday, September 27th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Newmarket Community Centre, 200 Doug Duncan Drive. This is an opportunity to meet many of this fall’s municipal election candidates. I’ll be there, so please come by and say hello.
September 26, 2022 A wonderful opportunity for families with children age 4 and up. Discover the wonderful children’s picture book Kate and the Dragon in a presentation with author Val Murray and illustrator Sarah Johnston on Sat., Oct. 15 at 10 a.m. Enjoy a reading of the story as Kate the knight, and Sebastian the wizard, investigate the mysterious appearance of a dragon. Val and Sarah will lead a lively talk about this charming story that’s sure to delight young readers. Ages 4 and up. Register here: https://bit.ly/3BZLnpQ 
September 24, 2022 Next Friday, September 30, is National Truth and Reconciliaton Day. The Town of Newmarket in collaboration with our Indigenous partners is hosting a Community event to come together and honour the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. Kim Wheatley, an Anishinaabe Ojibway Grandmother from Shawanaga First Nation Reserve who carries the Spirit name Head or Leader of the Fireflower and is Turtle clan, will offer words, perform hand drumming and prayers. The Community is encouraged to attend with reflection and a commitment to reconciliation. Join us at 3 pm on Friday, September 30 at the Fairy Lake Park Ampitheatre.
September 23, 2022 College Manor Park Stormwater Management update. Further to the notice of the Stormwater work in College Manor Park taking place September through November, we wanted to advise you that the Park Trail and pedestrian bridge are being closed from Sheridan Court to the Sports Fields while the work is being completed. Please see the suggested detour in the map below.
September 23, 2022 Has your Blue Bin bit the dust? Is your green bin held together with duct tape? Best of all, if exchanging a broken one for a new one, it’s FREE ! Here’s where to get one…..
September 23, 2022 Join us at Riverwalk Commons to participate in Hope Road, a temporary public art installation in celebration of Culture Days that is free and suitable for all ages! A stenciled prompt will guide you to leave your mark, allowing you the opportunity for sharing and expression. Saturday, September 24 at Riverwalk Commons, 200 Doug Duncan Drive, from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm. More info at newmarket.ca/culturedays
September 22, 2022 A huge shout-out to Kristy Robbins and our friends at the new Starbucks location on Harry Walker Pkwy for committing to donate their end-of-day packaged food items to the Community Fridge 3x a week! This greatly helps our community members who don’t have kitchens to prepare their meals while also preventing more good food from ending up in landfills. Thank you for your support!
September 21, 2022 Are you coming? Mayor Taylor and I, along with Aurora Mayor Tom Mrakas and other Town Councillors will be on-hand for the Opening Ceremony of the all new Fire Station 4-5 in Aurora. This new station which is centrally located between our Towns will also be the CYFS headquarters and training facility.
September 18, 2022 The Newmarket Group of Artists is really excited to present the Newmarket Artwalk & Studio Tour again! Matsu will be set up at the Old Town Hall at 460 Botsford St on Oct 1 & 2. Follow @newmarketawst where a complete listing of all the artists and their locations will be uploaded over the next week.
September 17, 2022
September 16, 2022
starting October 15th and up to October 24th, but you can only vote once.
September 16, 2022 Attention College Manor Park Residents. You may notice some stormwater management work taking place over the next few months. The park is open to the public except for the area where the work is being done. This work assists with maintaining a healthy stream and eco-system in the area.
September 15, 2022
September 14, 2022 Make sure you are on the list to vote. Check it out! Look out for the 2022 Municipal Elections Team who will be going door-to-door in Newmarket neighbourhoods this week to provide residents with information about the upcoming Municipal Election and how you can vote online, anytime from October 15 to 24.
September 12, 2022
September 10, 2022
September 9, 2022 Has it been four years? The Newmarket Chamber of Commerce has announced the details of their “Meet the Candidate” event in conjunction with fall’s Municipal election. The event will be hosted Tuesday, September 27th from 6 PM to 8 PM at the Newmarket Community Centre, 200 Doug Duncan Drive.
This is a free, drop-in event for residents and business owners to ask Candidates questions about any Ward or Town issues that might be important to you. I will be there at my information table as will other Newmarket candidates who wish to attend. I invite you to stop by and discuss any concerns you might have or just to say hi. The Town of Newmarket will also have a table and Staff there to answer any voting questions you might have. More details area available here: https://fb.me/e/1PfysRCHJ 
September 9, 2022 In recognition of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen, Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of the United Kingdom, Canada and Commonwealth and to honour her legacy, flags are flying at half-mast at all Town of Newmarket and Central York Fire Services (CYFS) facilities and buildings.
September 8, 2022 It’s more than just music! The last free musical performances of the 2022 summer season take place Friday night at Riverwalk Commons. Enjoy musical performances by extremely talented artists in a unique setting as we transform the Riverwalk Commons water feature into a beautifully lit stage complete with a baby grand piano!
September 7, 2022 Please note a crane will be on site this week to assist in completing construction work to Southlake’s parking garage. Prospect Street south of Davis Drive will be down to one lane of traffic until the work is complete. Traffic management is on site. We apologize for any inconvenience.
September 7, 2022 The local talent in Newmarket’s arts community is amazing. The Very Useful Theatre Company and the Newmarket International Festival of One Act Plays they produce each year are great examples of this. This year’s one-act play festival runs this weekend, September 8 – 11, at the Old Town Hall. With stories of redemption, love stories and a comedy behind a comedy, the nine plays gracing the stage this year offer something for almost everyone and are sure to delight and entertain. Buy tickets at NewTix: https://secure1.tixhub.com/newmarket/online/index.asp 
September 7, 2022 A reminder that this weekend is the 2022 edition of New’bark’et, our family-friendly, dog-friendly festival. Visit Lions Park, 424 D’Arcy St this Saturday & Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM for the shows, the fun, to see (and pet with permission) dogs of every size, shape and breed. ~ Let your dog run free in the fenced, off-leash dog area. ~ Peter Gorman Outdoor Pool is host to the Pooch Plunge, a dog-only swim for $5 per dog. ~ Try the Dog Lovers Days Lure Course, an interactive event where dog and owner work together to chase and catch a small lure. ~ Watch the Aqua Dogs show off during the competitive dog dock jumping series. ~ Visit the many dog related vendors along Church St including sponsors Global Pet Foods and VCA Canada 404 Veterinary Emergency and Referral Hospital ~and bring your appetite with food, beverages and treats provided by the North Newmarket Lions($), Texas Tornado Food Truck($) and Mister Soft Treats($) ~ Plus there is a live DJ, face painting, photo booth, inflatables and more. For more information, visit www.newmarket.ca/newbarket. 
September 6, 2022 A follow-up on the Muriel-Gorham Street application. If you would like to see all the documents currently available at the Planning Department, visit: https://www.newmarket.ca/…/Current-Applications.aspx or scan the QR code below. The page you land on shows all the current applications, and yes, the Town is very busy with applications and future building. Just scroll down to the Ward Map and click on any of the colour tinted sections of the map representing a new development. A brief overview pop-up window will appear and there will be a link to additional documents, the application on file, diagrams, studies, etc. When I find out the date of the first public meeting, I will post it here. 
September 6, 2022 Attention Gorham Street and Muriel Street residents
Don’t be surprised if you see a New Townhouse Development sign going up near the corner soon. I was surprised to hear this morning that the Town of Newmarket received complete applications for a Zoning By-law Amendment and Draft Plan of Subdivision for the area.
September 6, 2022 Watch out for our kids! Drivers, please slow down and be extra prudent while driving today, this week and everywhere in town! Kids are excited to be back in school. They’re seeing old friends, making new ones, telling and listening to awesome stories about the summer just past! They may not be paying the type of attention we need them to when walking or cycling to school or home. So it’s up to us!
September 4, 2022 Have you read though The Town of Newmarket 2019-2022 Community Report that captures the Town’s many successes and accomplishments over the past few years? There is an info-graphic that highlights some of the many things that helps make Newmarket a very special place to live. Sometimes we need a little reminder of just how fortunate we are living here. Things like: ~ there are almost 50 kms of walking and biking trails in town ~ our Main Street has been voted the Best Main Street in Canada ~ there are 50+ playgrounds amidst 365 hectares of parkland ~ we are home to hundreds of festivals and events with a thriving arts & culture community ~ and we are a culturally rich community that is inclusive and diverse Be sure to check out page 28 & 29 of the report.
September 2, 2022 WOW! Labour Day weekend already!
Don’t think of it as the end of summer, think of it as the transition into beautiful fall colours, cooler evenings, and the mayhem of back to school. Enjoy your Labour Day long weekend, whether you’re indoors or enjoying some outside time.
August 31, 2022
August 31, 2022 The Skatepark is officially open. Come and enjoy Newmarket’s latest place to enjoy! Who’s ready to do a backside 180 or a bar spin at Newmarket’s first Outdoor Skatepark? Today, we officially opened the doors to the skatepark for all wheeled-sport enthusiasts to enjoy! This skatepark wouldn’t have been possible without feedback from over 400+ residents during the public engagement phase of the project. Check out the video to see the progress from construction to finish. Newmarket Outdoor Skatepark (800 Mulock Drive) is open Dawn until Dusk. All users should follow the rules posted at the facility. The skatepark is unsupervised by the Town and adult supervision is recommended for younger riders. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3Q03hfJ To watch the video, click here.
August 30, 2022 See you around 8:15 tonight at College Manor Park when the Town presents the Disney animated film “Luca”, a story about a young sea monster boy with the ability to assume human form while on land. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket, snacks, drinks and maybe some bug spray and flashlight. Accessible porta-potties and hand washing stations are available on site. AND tomorrow night you can watch Monsters, Inc. under the stars at Dennis Park on Cane Parkway. Starts about 8:15 PM.
August 30, 2022 The 2022 edition of New’bark’et, our family-friendly dog friendly festival returns Saturday September 10 & Sunday the 11th from 10 AM to 4 PM at Lions Park, 424 D’Arcy Street. ~ Let your dog run free in the fenced, off leash dog area.~ Once again Peter Gorman Outdoor Pool is host to the Pooch Plunge, a dog-only swim for $5 per dog. ~ See how agile you and your dog are in the Dog Lovers Days Lure Course, an interactive event where dog and owner work together to chase and catch a small lure.~ Watch the Aqua Dogs show off during the competitive dog dock jumping series. ~ Check out the many dog related vendors along Church St including our sponsors Global Pet Foods and VCA Canada 404 Veterinary Emergency and Referral Hospital ~and don’t forget to bring your appetite with food, beverages and treats provided by the North Newmarket Lions($), Texas Tornado Food Truck($) and Mister Soft Treats($). ~ Plus there is a live DJ, face painting, photo booth, inflatables and more. Volunteers are needed, so if you are interested, or just for more information, please click https://www.newmarket.ca/newbarket.
August 28, 2022 The Newmarket Group of Artists is proud to present Heather Berios, one of the 34 artists juried into the 2022 Newmarket Art Walk and Studio Tour. “Transcendence: A Magical Journey No.9”, Oil on wood panel, 24” x 30”. We invite you to join us October 1, from 10am to 5pm, and October 2 from 11am to – 5pm to visit and chat with our participating artists who will be exhibiting at their home locations or in community spaces or businesses in and around historic downtown Newmarket. And of course we hope you’ll find something special to take home! Do you have a friend who would enjoy seeing the work of local artists? Tell them to join our email list by going to: http://eepurl.com/SjdqX. They’ll be entered into a draw to win a $100 gift certificate to use towards the purchase of original art during the Tour. 
August 28, 2022 Please enjoy another Moonlight Movie this Tuesday, August 30 at College Manor Park when the Town presents the Disney animated film “Luca”. If you haven’t seen it yet, it’s about a young sea monster boy with the ability to assume human form while on land. It was streamed over 10 billion times last year world-wide. The Movie starts a little after 8 PM. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket, snacks, drinks and maybe some bug spray and flashlight. Accessible porta-potties and hand washing stations are available on site. In the event of bad weather, check www.newmarket.ca/moonlightmovies for re-scheduling date. 
August 26, 2022 Have your heard? The Town of Newmarket’s Outdoor Skatepark has its official opening on Tuesday, August 30 at 3 PM. Come by to celebrate and be one the first to ride. The Park is located at on the grounds of the Magna Centre at 800 Mulock Drive. Public Consultation for the Skatepark resulted in over 400 participants providing feedback on what they wanted to see at what is Newmarket’s “first” outdoor skatepark. Feedback, and not just from pre-teens and teenagers, helped in the design of this unique facility that complements the very popular indoor skatepark at the Newmarket Youth Centre. The outdoor skatepark includes features to accommodate and challenge junior to advanced riders for all users and age groups. (although my carving days are behind me!) You can read more at heynewmarket.ca/skatepark but here is a list of what skateboarders will find at the park. A junior area with a small quarter pipe, manual pad, flatbar and a bank to curb, A central sculptural turn-around quarter pipe, Five set with hubba and rail, Wedge to wedge gap / table top, Asymmetrical quarter pipe hip, Slappy bank to curb, Mellow down rail, out ledge, out rail and manual pad, Eight set with rail and bank Small quarter pipe Multi-depth flow bowl with extension and pump roller. ( I don’t know what most of these features are, but I have been assured that they are very cool!) 
August 25, 2022 The Town Page for August 25 is now available online! See important back to school safety tips, programs you can register for in the fall, the return of your favourite dog festival New’bark’et presented by Global Pet Foods and more news at: newmarket.ca/townpage 
August 24, 2022 The Town of Newmarket is excited to announce an official partnership with the AGO – Art Gallery of Ontario that will see artworks and exhibitions from the AGO’s Indigenous and Canadian collections displayed at the historic Mulock House when the Mulock Park – Newmarket’s own Central Park-inspired urban oasis is expected to open in 2025. An official signing ceremony took place at the Mulock Park this evening to solidify this partnership that will help to elevate Newmarket as an arts and culture centre in the GTA, provide positive economic development opportunities and new cultural experiences for residents. 
Newmarket Mayor John Taylor and Stephan Jost, the Michael and Sonja Koerner Director, and CEO of the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) sign a memorandum of understanding on top of Sir William Mulock’s desk. Read more at: bit.ly/3wpTZms
August 24, 2022 This is Wonderful News from Inn From the Cold….. 
August 23, 2022 Free concert tonight! The Newmarket Citizen’s Band presents Summer Sizzle tonight, Tuesday, August 23, at 7:30 p.m. at the Riverwalk Commons. Bring your family, friends and a chair, and enjoy this free concert from the oldest continuously operating community bands in Canada.
August 22, 2022 The Newmarket Fall Recreation & Culture Activity Guide is now available for viewing online. It will open to online registration for Residents at 8:00 AM on Wednesday, August 24. Non-residents can register starting on the 31st. Click to view all the activities available this fall: https://www.newmarket.ca/activityguide
August 19, 2022 Need help preparing for your Canadian Citizenship Test? Then plan on attending the Centre for Immigrant and Community Services’ 4-week test preparation program on Thursdays, Sept. 8, 15, 22 and 29 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Learn all you need to know in order to pass the citizenship test, and about settlement services available to assist newcomers to Canada. Register https://bit.ly/3SLqVz0 
August 18, 2022 Author Sherry Lawson’s wonderful series of biographical books about growing up on the Rama Reserve in Orillia, Ontario, provide insight into Indigenous history, language and culture. An engaging oral storyteller, Sherry’s lively events inform, inspire and entertain. Join Sherry online on Tues., Sept. 13 at 7 p.m. as she discusses her writing and the importance of oral storytelling. 
August 18, 2022 As seen in Newmarket Today, August 18, 2022. https://bit.ly/3e1tbCy The Town of Newmarket is exploring the feasibility of installing a new nature trail at a stormwater pond location on Stackhouse Road. The pond, situated across from a shopping area near the corner of Harry Walker Parkway South, is now closed off from public access by fencing. But the municipality said it would explore a trail and picnic area by the pond that nearby` residents and workers could use.
Proposed by Ward 2 Councillor Victor Woodhouse, he said it makes sense to look at closed areas like stormwater ponds as public green spaces. “As you become more of an urban community, you have to look at what’s available,” Woodhouse said. “This is such a fine piece of real estate directly where people are going to use it.”
The property is approximately three acres and is one of 55 stormwater ponds throughout Newmarket that help control stormwater runoff. Although there are not many nearby residential properties, there are several businesses next to it, including a shopping plaza with No Frills.
The idea is still being evaluated, according to commissioner of development and infrastructure Peter Noehammer. He said if it is feasible, it can be brought through the annual budget process for design and potential implementation.
“The soonest this can occur is through the 2023 budget that will be tabled with the new term of council starting in December 2022,” Noehammer said. 
August 16, 2022 TOMORROW is Bicycle Lending Library Day! Borrow one of these bikes+ a (S-L) helmet and bike lock for 2 weeks at a time using your @newmarketlibrary card. Our popular @demon_electric e-bikes are coming back tomorrow *before 6:30 pm! It’s first-come first-serve, no holds, no extensions, or renewals. Drop-in between 3:30-6:30 pm at our Community Bike Hub in @newmakeit at 621 Timothy Street. For more info on our Bicycle Lending Library, visit https://newmarketcycles.ca/programs/bicycle-lending-library/ See you there! 
August 15, 2022 The Newmarket Fall Recreation & Culture Activity Guide is now available for viewing online. It will open to online registration for Residents at 8:00 AM on Wednesday, August 24. Non-residents can register starting on the 31st. Click to view all the activities available this fall: https://www.newmarket.ca/activityguide
August 15, 2022 The Lions Clubs of Newmarket present the Sweathshirts and Sneakers event for families in need! September 9th and 10th at the Coats for Kids location. Please consider donating gently used sweatshirts and sneakers. Donation locations are Budget/Avis rentals and Zona’s the Children’s Shoe Store. Both are located on Yonge St in Newmarket! 
August 13, 2022 POSTED BY: Amanda Montgomery on Facebook, and I, like so many other people thought it was relevant and worthy of re-posting. . . . “On my way to Main Street this morning to grab a coffee and a muffin, I drove by the @newmarketcommunityfridge and watched a man open the door, close it, and walk away. I pulled over and got out to check it out and saw that it was empty (asides from a few zucchini). I went back to the grocery store and picked up a few things. When I returned, there were now more people waiting and an older lady with a grocery bag said hello to me while she waited for me to load the fridge with the few things I had picked up. Everyone took only one or two things, knowing there were others waiting. I knew there was a need for something like this in our community but I had NO IDEA how great that need was. This was very eye opening for me. I am posting this for awareness. I encourage everyone to add a few items to the Community Fridge this weekend. We have an amazing community and I am so proud to be a part of it.” Will do, thanks Amanda! 
August 10, 2022 Newmarket’s annual blue box campaign is back! This is when we remind residents what goes where when recycling items for the blue box. From August 16 to September 9, Town staff will perform random visual inspections to ensure only recyclable items are placed in the blue box. “I would like to thank and recognize our community for always being environmentally conscious …. it is important that we continue to pay close attention to what is placed in our recycling blue boxes.” says Mayor John Taylor. If inspected, expect to see one of two different door hangers on your door. One if there are items in the blue box that do not belong, and another for doing a good job with your recycling efforts. This is an educational program and no enforcement will be conducted by staff member if the blue box is found to contain improper items. Items placed in the blue box that are not accepted in the blue box program are considered contamination. This includes plastic shopping bags, plastic bags full of recyclables, newspapers still in their plastic sleeve, Styrofoam, take-out cups, black plastic, and any food or liquids left in containers. Each municipality has its own set of rules of what is accepted for recycling. Residents are reminded to review what is accepted in Newmarket by reviewing the blue box recycling webpage; https://www.newmarket.ca/blueboxrecycling. If you aren’t sure what goes where, use the Recycle Coach App on the website or download it onto your mobile device to find out. In an effort to keep contamination rates low, residents are reminded to keep these blue box recycling tips in mind: ~ Disposable masks & gloves belong in the garbage, not the blue box. ~ Plastic bags, plastic wrap and plastic sleeve bags used for newspapers are not accepted in the blue box. Please remove and discard plastic sleeve bags before placing your newspaper in the blue box. ~ Remove all food residue from containers before recycling. Wipe or scrape food residue with a paper towel before placing the item in the blue box. The paper towel can be placed in the green bin. ~ Textiles & cloth items do not belong in the blue box. Please take these items to a textile recycling bin located at one of Newmarket’s facilities. ~ Plastic toys, batteries, medical waste, coffee pods and take out cups / Styrofoam take out containers do not belong in the blue box. Do not overfill your blue box to the point of overflow. Flatten boxes to save space. Place heavier items on top of lighter items in your blue box to prevent things blowing away and becoming litter. ~ Cardboard boxes can be placed out for collection beside your blue box if flattened and in securely tied bundles no larger than 36” x 36” x 8”.~ Residents can exchange their broken blue box for free by calling Green For Life (GFL) at 1-866-421-5625 and scheduling a replacement bin exchange. For more information, please visit newmarket.ca/wasteandrecycling
August 6, 2022 On Sunday, August 7 from 9 am to 11 pm in and around Main Street area and at Riverwalk Commons, downtown Newmarket will once again be the backdrop for the filming of a commercial. There should be minimal disruption to the community with some short intermittent road closures for 1-2 minutes at a time on Main Street from Water Street to Botsford Street. York Regional Police will be onsite to manage traffic flow. NOTE, there will be limited parking at Commons North (P3) due to production vehicles located at this site all day. Cedar Street (behind the Community Centre and Lions Hall) will be used as part of the production but will remain open. The Tim Hortons Water Feature water jets will turn off at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 7 to accommodate the production. The Water Feature will remain open. Residents may see a winterized Main Street as part of the production. The Town would like to thank the community and our downtown residents and businesses for their patience during this time. To offset the impacts to the area, the Town successfully negotiated a $10,000 contribution to the Newmarket BIA to help reinfuse vitality and energy along Main Street as it recovers from the pandemic. For questions, concerns and feedback, please contact the Town’s Customer Service at info@newmarket.ca. For municipal emergencies and/or urgent film inquiries after-hours call 905-895-5193 & press 3. For a complete map of the areas impacted by the film permit, please visit http://heynewmarket.ca/ 
August 6, 2022 WOW, THAT WAS FAST! On August 4th, you may have read here that York Regional Police were seeking witnesses following two commercial robberies in Newmarket, one at 5:30 am near Yonge St & Kingston Rd and an hour later near Yonge St & William Roe Blvd. On Friday August 5, 2022, investigators of the Hold-Up Unit located and charged the suspect. CHARGED: Male, 17, of Newmarket CHARGES: Robbery with a Firearm, Disguise with Intent, Investigators are appealing to any witnesses who have not yet spoken with police to come forward. Officers would also like to speak with anyone who may have video surveillance or dashcam footage of the incident. This investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6631, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-tips, leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com 
August 4, 2022 York Regional Police are seeking witnesses following two commercial robberies in Newmarket. On Thursday, August 4, at approximately 5:30 a.m., York Regional Police responded to a convenience store near Yonge St and Kingston Rd for a robbery. Officers learned that a male suspect entered the store and brandished a knife and gun while demanding cash and cigarettes. The suspect fled on foot prior to police arriving. An hour later, Police responded to another convenience near Yonge St & William Roe Blvd for another robbery. The same suspect was unsuccessful at the robbery and fled the scene on foot without obtaining any money. Fortunately, no one was injured. Police are seeking public assistance in identifying the suspect. Suspect described as: Male, white, 20 to 25 years of age, 5’5”, medium build, wearing glasses and a black face covering, a black toque, a black hooded sweater with a Gold Raptors logo, a white shirt under the sweater, blue jeans, a black satchel, armed with a knife and a gun. Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.
August 3, 2022 Have you donated to the Newmarket Community Fridge? There is a great need for this service in our community and here’s three ways you can help: 1. Donate food by placing items directly inside the fridge, or donate money to the Newmarket Food Pantry 2. Volunteer to clean and tidy up the fridge, or 3. Share posts from Newmarket Community Fridge to help spread the word. For more info, visit: newmarketfoodpantry.ca/community-fridge
August 2, 2022 Native Women’s Association of Canada You are beautiful, strong, and resilient. Remember this First Women Art by Ocean Kiana. https://www.facebook.com/oceankiana. To purchase artwork, please visit: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/118142365 
August 1, 2022 Many Canadians are surprised to learn that Black and Indigenous Peoples were once enslaved in Canada and some still believe that slavery existed only in the US. Many are unaware of the extent to which anti-Black and anti-Indigenous continues to exist in Canadian society. Acknowledging the past enslavement of Black and Indigenous peoples in Canada is an important step towards dismantling systemic anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism.
Today, we especially pay tribute to the ancestors of those of African and Indigenous origin and descent. Their fight against enslavement was a turning point in shaping our society into what it is today. Emancipation Day represents the determination, perseverance, resistance and contributions of Black Canadians to the building of Canadian society. We thank Rosemary Sadlier for her outstanding efforts which led to the House of Commons officially designating August 1 as Emancipation Day across Canada. August 1, 2022 has been proclaimed Emancipation Day in the Town of Newmarket. 
July 31, 2022 Do you have ideas and perspectives to share about how to dismantle Anti-Black Racism in Newmarket? Register for an upcoming community-let Town Hall meeting facilitated by EMpower Strategy Group and you can weigh in on an Action Plan being created for the Town. Online: Thursday, August 4 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. In-person: Monday, August 8 at Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association Community Centre (449 Eagle St.) from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Registration required.
July 30, 2022 A long weekend reminder that Fireworks are not permitted during the Civic Holiday weekend. Fireworks are only allowed on Victoria Day and Canada Day weekends. If you need to report fireworks usage, please call 905-895-5193, then press 3 to reach our after-hours service. 
July 29, 2022 Looking for something fun to do this Civic Holiday Weekend? Try the Virtual Main Street Walking Tour! At your own pace, scan a QR code to watch a video explaining the history behind several buildings on Main Street and learn more about the businesses that currently occupy them. Free & very cool I might add. For more information visit https://www.newmarket.ca/virtualmainstreet. 
July 29, 2022 I hope everyone has a chance to enjoy this Civic Holiday long weekend. It should be a great weekend weather-wise, so slap on the sunscreen and get some outside time. A reminder that all Town Offices and Facilities are closed on Monday. And remember, no fireworks are permitted to be used within the Town of Newmarket. Here’s what’s open: • Outdoor Gorman Pool (1 to 5 p.m.) • Tim Hortons Water Feature (9 a.m. to 9 p.m.) • All spray pads (10 a.m. to 9 p.m.) • All parks and trails 
July 29, 2022 York Regional Police are seeking witnesses following a suspicious death in Newmarket. On Friday, July 29, 2022, at approximately 1:30 a.m., officers were called to a residence in the area of Prospect Street and Gorham Street for a report of an injured person. When officers arrived, they located a 22-year-old female who was attended to by emergency services. The female was taken to hospital, where she was pronounced deceased. The death has been deemed suspicious and Homicide Unit investigators have taken over the investigation. Investigators are appealing to anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area, who have not yet spoken to police, to please come forward. They are also appealing to anyone in the area with residential video surveillance or dashcam footage that may have captured anything suspicious to please come forward. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Homicide Unit at 1-866-876-5423 ext. 7865, or email the Homicide Unit at homicide@yrp.ca, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com. 
July 26, 2022 Thank you Newmarket Chamber! This is one of the great ideas from the Chamber, it truly helps the youth in our community. We’re on the lookout for awesome ideas that benefit kids and youth in Newmarket! Got one but need some funding help to bring it to life? Why not apply for a $1,000 Awesome Foundation Newmarket grant? Applying is quick and easy and there are no strings attached! Deadlines are the 15th of every month. Learn more and get started at www.newmarket.ca/awesome 
July 26, 2022 Here’s what you can donate to the Newmarket Community Fridge located outside the Newmarket Public Library: Fresh products, Dry goods, Frozen Foods, new personal care items, prepared meals, (with restrictions), sealed non-alcoholic beverages. Learn more and see what else you can donate at: newmarketfoodpantry.ca/community-fridge/
July 26, 2022 Lions Clubs of Newmarket are still in need of gently used Sweatshirts and sneakers! Can you help?
July 25, 2022 As shared last week, construction to make road improvements on Bayview Ave/Prospect St. from Mulock to Gorham have started and continue to the end of July. Work occurs weekdays from 9 am to 9 pm. Temporary closures of lanes will be required. This is a York Region project where the top layer of asphalt is being removed & replaced to improve ride quality. Dedicated bike lane painting will follow. There is no cost to the Region as standards in the original agreement were not met. Information: york.ca/BayviewProspect
July 23, 2022 Newmarket Cycles is at NewMakeIt on Saturday, July 30 for DIY Bike Repairs at 10am and a Group Ride at 1pm! DIY Bike Repair’s drop-in is where anyone can come by our Newmarketcycles Community Bike Hub and learn how to fix their own bike. Our friendly staff and volunteers will help you identify any repairs needed on your bike and provide you with the tools, assistance, and knowledge to confidently complete the fix. All services are free and operate on a first-come-first serve basis. No registration required – just show up to our shipping container at @newmakeit, 621 Timothy Street with your bike. 
July 23, 2022 This weekend is going to be a scorcher with temperatures reaching a (real feel) whopping 38C! Please help us keep our neigbours safe and hydrated by donating the following: Bottles of water Coconut water Electrolyte drinks Fruit Juices Please remember to open up the cases when stocking the fridge so people can grab individual bottles. Thank you! 
July 20, 2022 If you need to escape the heat & humidity, the Town has several facilities that are cool and refreshing where you can slurp a cool drink, or sip a hot coffee. You can also take advantage of public swimming as well, fee applies. Stop by the Magna Centre, 800 Mulock Dr or the Ray Twinney Complex at 100 Eagle St W. from 5:30 am to 11 pm. (Or get over to Upper Canada Mall, free unless you start shopping….)The Library has great new lighting that doesn’t generate heat and is a great place to read the latest magazine, find a good book or surf the internet and not get wet. Open from 9:30 am to 9 pm Tuesday thru Thursday, closing at 5 pm on Friday & Saturday. If you’re thinking a swim outside might be in order, there is Outdoor Gorman Pool located 424 D’Arcy St, fee applies. For kids of all ages, the Town has four outdoor splash pad/water feature facilities. Click here for the list and map. 
July 19, 2022 Earlier in June, I attended the Decoration Day event that was able to occur after a 2 year COVID interruption. The Newmarket Veterans Association, in partnership with the local Legion takes time to remember the veterans who never returned home. Due to a family commitment, I was not able to stay for the entire service this year. From the bottom of my heart “Thank you” to all of our veterans. You are appreciated.
July 14, 2022 On Stage tonight at Riverwalk Commons is Dwayne Gretzky, a 10+ piece band performing many of your favourite and best songs of all time, nostalgia for all age groups. Opening act is Aysanabee starting at 6 PM, show ends 9 PM. Bring your lawn chair, tap your feet, clap your hands and be prepare to dance! Food and beverage service available by Joia on Main and Irv At The George. A reminder that the Tim Hortons Water Feature closes at 4 PM on Thursdays. And this Friday and Saturday evenings from about 5 PM to 7 PM, street performers will entertain along Main Street. I don’t know who is performing, but it could be live musical performances, dancing, juggling standing statues, miming, magic, or any other type of family entertainment. I guess you will just have to visit Main Street again! 
July 13, 2022 Summer is the season of construction and that will be no exception when road improvements start up again on Bayview Ave/Prospect St. from Mulock to Gorham next week on Tuesday, July 19 and continue to the end of July. Work will occur weekdays from 9 am to 9 pm. Night construction at the intersection of Bayview Ave & Mulock Dr will be required from 9 pm to 7 am on Tuesday July 19 and Wednesday, July 20. Temporary closures of lanes will be required. This is a York Region project, and although Bayview Avenue/Prospect Street was resurfaced in 2021, the top layer of asphalt is being removed & replaced to improve ride quality. Dedicated bike lane painting will follow. There is no cost to the Region as standards in the original agreement were not met. Information: york.ca/BayviewProspect
July 12, 2022 Spot a coyote? Report it online here or by phone at 905-895-5193! Coyote sightings are becoming more frequent, so remember to remove food attractants, use motion sensitive lights in yards and more. Click this link to see our amp of coyote sitings in town. 
July 12, 2022 Residents may experience waste collection pick-up delays from GFL due to COVID-19 and a general labour shortage in the waste industry. We are working closely with GFL to minimize disruption to this essential service and apologize for the inconvenience. Waste collection that hasn’t been completed will be rescheduled to the next day. Please take uncollected items inside by 8 p.m. and place items back on the curb by 7 a.m. the next day. Missed collections can be directed to GFL at 1-866-421-5625 or by email at wasteline@glfenv.com Check the status of collection at: gflenv.com/municipal-collection. 
July 8, 2022 If you’ve visited the library recently you may have noticed a difference. That’s due to the lighting. All the old fluorescent ceiling lights have been replaced with LED lights, and many visitors have commented on how much brighter it is. There is definitely a bright future ahead for NPL, as this is just the first step in a planned refresh of the building. 
July 8, 2022 Did you know that that the Elman W. Campbell Museum is hosting Seniors Social Bees on three Fridays in July? (July 8, 15, 29) On these Fridays from 10 am to noon, register for a fun morning of Coffee, Crafts and Chats and explore the Museum’s many displays! Designed for those of us aged 55 and older $5/person. Pre-register at play.newmarket.ca. Limited registration. July 8, Woven Hearts (40th Anniversary Craft) July 15, Painted Flower Pots July 29, Painted Doily Butterflies 
July 6, 2022 Heads Up! The Tim Hortons Water Feature a Riverwalk Commons will close at 4 p.m. every Thursday this summer from July 7 to September 1. The closure is to prepare for each of the FREE TD Newmarket Music Series hosted Thursday nights. Regular Water Feature hours of operation will resume on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Hope to see you at the concert! 
July 6, 2022 The Newmarket Chamber has many small and innovative business owners and apart from being Chamber Members, some are also members of our Mastermind Group. This group meets each month to problem solve issues and provide help for others by offering real world solutions and insights. At our June meeting, instead of another Zoom call, we met in-person and on-sight at Country Cut Flowers, owned by one of our Members. It was wonderful meeting in person after a two year regiment of “virtual” meetings. Our Group enjoyed an absolutely delightful farm and a very helpful discussion.
July 4, 2022 Our furry friends love the trails but not all trail users know how to act around our pets and vice versa. Mind your pets, keep them leashed and make “fido” a great trail ambassador. Please remember to pick-up after your pet. Waste bags are available along all Newmarket trails if you forget to bring one.
July 4, 2022 The Town of Newmarket has undertaken a Speed Management Pilot Program in numerous locations in Town. In Ward 2, “Urban Shoulders” will be painted on west side of Arnold Cres between Dales Ave and Mazo De La Roche P.S. south entrance. These Urban Shoulders consist of a white line painted from 1.0 to 2.5 metres away from a curb to create a visual “road diet” to slow down road traffic. Urban Shoulders will not affect existing on-street parking and depending on the location in Town, painting will be done mostly in the evening beginning this summer. Residents may be asked not to park on the street or to move your vehicle from the road before the work begins. In Ward 2, alternative on-street parking is available on both side of Dales Ave, Grace St and on Arnold Cres north and south of the project area. You can find additional information about the Town’s traffic management program at: www.newmarket.ca/safetydriven or contact Transportation Specialist, Paul Choi at pchoi@newmarket.ca or call 905-953-5300 ext. 2517. 
July 2, 2022 Looking for a new social activity? We’re launching the Friday Seniors Social Bees program at the Elman W. Campbell Museum. Join us for crafts and chats on Friday, July 8, 15, and 29 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Cost = $5 per morning. Save your space! Register at play.newmarket.ca. Learn more: newmarket.ca/museum
July 2, 2022 The Town of Newmarket will once again care for local pets and wildlife with an in-house Animal Services program. Residents can call the Town’s Customer Service Centre at 905-895-5193 to report sick, injured or orphaned wildlife, stray pets, dog bites and by-law enforcement to support animal welfare. The newly developed Animal Services department is dedicated to ensuring the welfare of both pets and wildlife while conducting proactive education initiatives to support responsible pet ownership. An Animal Services Officer will be on duty: * Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. * Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.Residents can call the Town’s Customer Service Centre at any time at 905-895-5193 and press 3 after standard customer service hours. An after-hours representative will direct the call. Please click here for additional details. In its commitment to animal welfare, the Town has created the Transparent Wildlife Care Initiative. Through this initiative, the Town will track the journey of wildlife that comes into its care and will share it with residents (upon request). This gives residents the peace of mind that the animals are well cared for and the opportunity to contribute to the animal’s ongoing care and treatment by donating to the specific wildlife rehabilitation facility providing that care.
July 1, 2022 Happy Canada Day!
June 30, 2022
Happy Canada Day! Central York Fire Services reminds residents to be safe with the use, handling and disposal of fireworks. In Newmarket, fireworks are only permitted for use during Victoria Day and Canada Day weekends. Fireworks are NOT allowed on public property, including parks, streets & open fields/spaces. Fines for improper use of fireworks in Newmarket start at $600 in accordance with Fireworks By-law 2015-18. Residents can report bylaw infractions, such as the use of fireworks, by calling: Town of Newmarket: 905-895-5193 (press 3 for after hours line)Before you set off fireworks, go through this checklist of rules and safety advice: https://www.newmarket.ca/…/Pages/News-Description.aspx…All Town of Newmarket buildings and facilities are closed on July 1 to observe the Canada Day Holiday. Regular hours will resume on Monday, July 4. For municipal emergencies, please call 905-895-5193 and press 3 to be directed to our after-hours service. For power outages, please contact Newmarket Hydro at (905) 895-2309. Central York Fire Services reminds residents to be safe with the use, handling and disposal of fireworks. In Newmarket, fireworks are only permitted for use during Victoria Day and Canada Day weekends. Fireworks are NOT allowed on public property, including parks, streets & open fields/spaces. Fines for improper use of fireworks in Newmarket start at $600 in accordance with Fireworks By-law 2015-18. Residents can report bylaw infractions, such as the use of fireworks, by calling: Town of Newmarket: 905-895-5193 (press 3 for after hours line)Before you set off fireworks, go through this checklist of rules and safety advice: https://www.newmarket.ca/…/Pages/News-Description.aspx…
June 30, 2022
Ward 2 news…
Central York Fire Services was dispatched to a home on Arnold Crescent on Tuesday evening following a 911 hang-up call. Upon arrival, the crew found smoke rising from the garage and two-storey house. The fire was contained to the garage, however smoke migrated through the home. Three occupants were in the home and had safely evacuated on their own and fortunately, no one was injured. It appears that the cause of the fire was electrical in nature.
June 28, 2022
Friday is Canada Day and what a July 1st it will be! The Town has prepared a non-stop list of activities for residents of all ages and interests! At Riverwalk Commons and Main St from 11 AM to 4 PM, enjoy a variety of food vendors, artisan and other Craft Vendors and Community Groups while the kids partake in the Rock climbing wall, jumping on inflatables, watch the Pulsars Gymnastics in action, balloon twisting and my favourite, face painting! On Stage at Riverwalk Commons live Music kicks off with the singing of
O Canada, followed by live music: 11:30 – 12:15 – Blush followed by Ear Candy with 45 minute sets at 12:45, 2:00 and 3:15. The Buskers are out in full force with lively shows along Timothy Street: 11 – 11:30, and again from 1:30 – 2:00: Greg Tarlin12:15 – 12:45, and again from 2:45 – 3:15 – The Hockey Circus Show.
Along Main Street from 10 am to 4 pm, Vendors and activities, like inflatables and axe throwing. Live Music: Oli Graham, Acoustic Music at Main/Water, the Sidewalk Crusaders, a 7 piece sidewalk band at Main/Park, plus the Tim Hortons Train will be running. Then the evening festivities start at 7:20 at George Richardson Park starting with the singing of O Canada, the Newmarket Citizens Band from 7:30 pm to 8:45 pm, Switchbeat in Concert from 9:00 pm to 10:10 pm followed by another incredible Fireworks Show from 10:10 pm – 10:30 pm.
June 27, 2022
To further entertain residents and visitors this summer, Newmarket has introduced a Busk till Dusk program happening every Friday & Saturday night this summer, except Canada Day. From about 5 pm to 7 pm, street performers will entertain along Main Street. This past weekend was the first appearance of performers with musicians Glenn Marais and Manny DeGrandis entertaining at the corner of Park Ave & Main St & Bex in Motion around Main & Timothy Streets. Saturday was music by Zach Motjala & Bex in Motion was back! All summer long along Main St, there will be live musical performances, dancing, juggling to standing statues and miming, all types of entertaining performances. Be sure to schedule a visit to Main Street to take in the free shows. 
June 23, 2022
This morning, while I was at Arnhem Park for the re-installation of the Basketball Hoop, I caught and shot a short video of the Works Department people in action. It’s so good to see that they do their jobs so well. Game of 21 anyone? You can watch the video here. 
June 23, 2022
The Arnhem Park Basketball Hoop Returns!
Sorry for the delay in information, but the Town removed the basketball pole and hoop because the base was becoming loose and was in need of repair. We can’t have facilities with potentially dangerous equipment. The basketball pole and net were reinstalled this morning and will be ready to use when the cement sets. The Town has also installed updated signage on the fence to notify residents of this. A few residents reached out to me regarding the removal of the net and pole at Arnhem Park and after checking with the Town and Parks & Rec, it turns out that the job was being done before the notice was posted. And since you’re asking. . . . the no litter signs in the area were placed by the Town last summer due to increased littering in our parks and is meant to serve as a reminder to help keep our parks clean. These bins are regularly emptied by Newmarket staff, however if you notice that the bins are full, please keep your waste with you and do not littler. You can report full waste bins to the Town by calling 905-895-5193, by emailing info@newmarket.ca, or you can always let me know as well.
June 21, 2022
Chris Hadfield is this summer’s SuperSTAR Storyteller in a special online visit Tues., July 19 from 4:30 to 5 p.m. NPL is hosting a viewing party for everyone 6 years and up. Got a question for Chris? Send it to jref@newmarketpl.ca for a chance to ask your question live during the event. Arrive early, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., for out of this world activities about astronomy. Register now to get a spot for this superstar event!
June 22, 2022
Newmarket has four great Splash Pads that have already opened.
– Riverwalk Commons, opened from 9 am to 8 pm daily and is closed Saturdays during Farmers Market, reopening at 2pm.
– the Rogers Spray Park, 170 London Road, opened from 10 am to 8 pm daily.
– Frank Stronach Spray Pad. 850 Memorial Circle, is opened from 10 am to 8 pm daily.
– The Dr. Margaret Arkinstall Spray Pad on Sawmill Valley Drive near Terry Fox School is opened from 10 am to 8 pm daily.
Get wet, have fun! Find all Newmarket Parks here
June 17, 2022
As we know, June is Pride Month and the Town has raised the York Pride Flag at Peace Park and Riverwalk Commons. Later today, the Fred A. Lundy Bridge will be lit in rainbow colours in support of Pride Month. Also, not to be missed on Saturday from 11:00 am through to 11:55 pm at Riverwalk Commons and on Main Street, PRIDE ON RIVERWALK takes over Downtown Newmarket with activities and live music featuring local emerging artists. Find out more at https://yorkpride.ca/
June 16, 2022
We know you’ve seen them….In-road bollards have been installed on many streets in town as one of the many traffic calming measures the town undertakes as part of the speed management program. The bollards create a visual narrowing of the road for drivers, causing people to reduce their speed. First piloted in 2016, the flexible bollard program was on two residential collector roads and and since expanded every year to nearly 30 locations this season to help reduce speed. Residents are reminded and encouraged to reach out to their Ward Councillor or York Regional Police (YRP) if there are trouble spots in their neighbourhood.
June 15, 2022
This may be of interest to you and all the history buffs out there:
June 14, 2022
We’re hiring various positions at the Town of Newmarket! Come join the team and help make Newmarket even better! Some positions include: Seasonal and Part Time Facility Attendant(s); Program Instructor for various programs; Various positions at the Youth Centre; Mechanic; Accounts Payable Administrator; plus Summer Camp positions. Learn more and apply online at newmarket.ca/jobs
June 14, 2022
The medicine wheel is a symbol that is used by many Indigenous communities. Each of the four sections have corresponding sacred medicine. Sweetgrass for white, tobacco for yellow, cedar for red, and sage for black. Check out our June is National Indigenous History Month display to learn more.
June 14, 2022
Gorham and Muriel Street area Residents
Dear Residents,
No. You didn’t miss a public meeting about this new development. No. There will not be construction anytime soon. The developer has had meetings with the Town staff, but the developers have not provided a complete plan and DO Not have permission for these signs. Staff has let them know the signs must be removed. When and if a completed application comes forward, I will let you know.
Thanks & best regards,
Victor Woodhouse,
Councillor for Ward 2 Newmarket
June 11, 2022
DOWNTOWN TRAFFIC & PARKING ALERT
The Town hosting a large TV production company June 12 to 16th to shoot scenes for a popular television series in the downtown core. This is the same production that filmed in in March that brought much buzz and excitement to the community. The filming permits and fees will bring in almost $50,000 for the Town, which does not include the additional positive economic impacts that will come from hotel bookings and the hundreds of cast and crew shopping and dining in Newmarket. The last filming in March was estimated to have an overall $200,000 economic impact for the Town.
About the shoot: Sunday, June 12 to Thursday, June 16 filming and production in the downtown core. This involves the temporary removal of signs along with and on-street parking disruptions in and around the Old Town Hall (interior and exterior), Market Square and surrounding areas.
Parking closures and disruptions: On Tuesday, June 14 from 8 to 10 a.m. Intermittent road closures on Main Street, at the corner of Botsford. A small portion of Main Street will be closed for three minute intervals to film a scene. It will re-open between shots to allow traffic through. From June 12 to June 16 (entire production & filming period)Intermittent road closures for vehicular traffic along Timothy and Botsford Street and Market Square Lane during filming days (from Main Street to the Old Town Hall facility). Detour routes are available along Park Avenue, Queen Street and Millard Avenue. Limited public parking on-street along Timothy and Botsford Streets (from Main Street to Old Town Hall). Note: This only impacts a minimal number of spots which are for timed-parking. No parking at Old Town Hall. No parking and use of a portion of the Market Square parking lot (will reopen on June 16)Lions Park (Outdoor Gorman Pool) Parking Lot will be used for overflow parking for the production crew. Spaces will be available for use by residents. St. Paul’s Church private parking lot will be in use by the film crew. Ray Twinney Recreation Complex (RTRC) South Parking Lot (until June 16) The Town’s Municipal Enforcement Officers will place notices on vehicles parked in the spaces the day prior to parking spot closures (June 11/12 for Timothy and Botsford Street and Market Square). Vehicles will need to be relocated by 7 a.m. the morning of the closure. If vehicles remain in the lots at the time of closure, they will be towed by the Town’s contractor to the nearby P3 Parking lot by Riverwalk Commons. Towing is at the production company’s expense.
Alternate places to park: All parking lots east of Main Street (P1, P3 and P7) surrounding Riverwalk Commons, Fairy Lake, Street Parking on Main Street (following 30-minute parking limits)The Town would like to thank the community, particularly its downtown residents and businesses for their patience during this time. While there will be some short-term inconveniences, the production brings a positive economic return to the Town, the community and local businesses. The revenue generated will provide a long-term investment in the downtown core and reinfuse vitality and energy to the community as it recovers from the pandemic. Town’s Film Help Line at 905-716-9800For general and non-urgent inquiries, contact the Town’s Customer Service at info@newmarket.ca or 905-895-5193 and press 3 if after hours. For a complete map of the areas impacted by the film permit, please visit www.heynewmarket.ca/filming
June 10, 2022
So you picked up your burlap but are wondering if you hung it right? Visit the the Farmers’ Market tomorrow to see a demonstration of how to install burlap bands to protect your trees from those spongy moths. Staff will be on hand to answer all your questions. From 9 am to 1 pm at Riverwalk Commons.
June 10, 2022
The Newmarket Public Library is kicking-off the TD Summer Reading Club season with a Magic Show featuring Scott Dietrich on Saturday, June 18th from 2:00 to 2:40 pm. Children’s magician and author, Scott Dietrich has been voted the “Best Children’s Entertainer” in the GTA for 8 consecutive years! Interactive and kids participate! Great fun for kids aged 3 to 12, and parents of all ages. Cost: $8/person
June 9, 2022
Today we announced that the Stronach Regional Cancer Centre at Southlake is the first organization to join the Princess Margaret Cancer Care Network, bringing resources from one of the top cancer centres in the world to patients in York Region and Simcoe County. This partnership will lead to improved access to care for Southlake’s patients, and more rapid dissemination of clinical guidance, advanced technologies, education and innovations to advance cancer care across our region. Click here for the full story: https://southlake.ca/…/southlake-partners-with-world…/
June 9, 2022
There is a lot to celebrate this month….June is National Indigenous History Month and it is a time to honour the history, heritage and diversity of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Learn a little or a lot about Indigenous History at the Elman W. Campbell Museum for weekly pop-ups every Saturday. For more information, visit: newmarket.ca/indigenous
June is also Pride Month and an opportunity to reconnect in-person at various PRIDE events. On Saturday, June 18from 11:00 am through to 11:55 pm at Riverwalk Commons and on Main Street, PRIDE ON RIVERWALK takes over Downtown Newmarket with activities and live music featuring local emerging artists. Find out more at www.yorkpride.ca
In recognition of Water Safety Week, you are invited to participate in the FREE Family Swim to Survive program every Monday in June at the Ray Twinney Recreation Complex. Available in Farsi, Spanish, French, Mandarin and English.
June 9, 2022
It’s June! Which means our Fun Fair is just around the corner! Come on by for a great day full of food, games, prizes, a bouncy castle, a dunk tank, face painting and more. This is a day for everyone! Admission is FREE and tickets for activities and food are offered at old fashioned fun fair prices. Invite your friends, family and neighbours. We can’t wait to see you there! WHAT: Grace Church Annual Fun Fair
WHEN: Saturday, June 11 from 11am-3pm WHERE: Grace Church – 221 Carlson Drive, Newmarket
June 6, 2022
It’s turtle laying season in Newmarket. Please take extra caution, keep your eyes open and respect their habitats. If you spot a new nest, please email info@newmarket.ca!
June 4, 2022
Thank you to @deafblindnetworkofontario for bringing Yarn bombing to our Fairy Lake pedestrian bridge. Yarn bombing, which is sometimes known as ‘knitfiti’, is a form of street art where yarn wrapps an object in a public space. This initiative marks June, which is the birth month of Helen Keller, as #DeafBlind awarness month. Yard boming is currently taking place in over 20 countries across the world, slogan: “Connecting the World at one stitch at a time”, and it is building awarness about DeafBlindness on a global scale. Thank you for choosing Newmarket to bring awareness through this exciting, fun, and creative largescale tactile art project. #Ward5 #Newmarket #deafblindawareness
June 4, 2022
In celebration of Water Safety Week, on Mondays for the entire month of June, we will be offering our Family Swim to Survive program for FREE in five different languages to support new Canadians and Newmarket residents with water safety skills. These 40 minute classes will take place at the Ray Twinney Recreation Complex and languages include Farsi, Spanish, French, Mandarin and English. Register for program in advance at play.newmarket.ca
June 3, 2022
If you have an hour or two this Saturday or any day next week and you’re in the downtown area, wander over to the Old Town Hall and prepare to be amazed at the artwork on display at the Seniors Art Show & Sale! Members from the Seniors Meeting Place have been creating art and their Show & Sale runs daily until June 9th, from 10 am to 4 pm. Closed Sunday, The Old Town Hall is at 460 Botsford St, and admission is free.
June 3, 2022
It was such a pleasure for the Newmarket Public Library to host a visit from @newmarketmontessori students! It was great to see everyone!
June 2, 2022
If you’re in the Easter Seals Run, Walk and Roll event, you may not be in the very front row and would not have seen the official start of the event. Click this link to watch the video.
June 1, 2022
Last Sunday saw a welcomed return to the Easter Seals Run, Walk and Roll event in Town. Those who joined included seasoned runners, casual runners, anyone who walked, and some who rolled or were pushed along to enjoy a lovely 5 km walk on Sunday morning. Easter Seals continues to provide significant support to families and individuals with physical disabilities in Newmarket, York Region and throughout Canada. It was nice to see the event come back and continue a long-standing tradition that was started by Joe Persechini back in 1976.
May 30, 2022
Look at the Talent on Display! The Seniors Art Show opened on Friday afternoon at the Old Town Hall and I am so pleased that I attended the opening. The art is truly wonderful and it is obvious that there is a lot of talent in Town! There are so many excellent varieties and styles of painting and if you are shopping for a piece of art, there is something for every budget. I highly recommend a visit to take in the show, you’ll be glad you did!
May 27, 2022
On May 11, McDonald’s Restaurants celebrated their 28th McHappy Day in Canada and they enlisted the help of yours truly along with the Mayor, other Councillors and anyone who might help out for a great cause! Maybe one day they’ll let me grill! The Town and so many of us support McHappy Day because a portion of proceeds from every menu item sold goes to a Ronald McDonald House® and other children’s charities across the country.
May 26, 2022
Members from the Seniors Meeting Place have been creating their art pieces in preparation of their annual Seniors Art Show & Sale. The Exhibit & Sale starts tomorrow, May 27th and runs until June 9th from 10 am to 4 pm daily, except Sundays, at the Old Town Hall, 460 Botsford Street. Admission is free, but the art piece you find might be priceless.
May 26, 2022
The final event of the Elman W. Campbell Museum’s Museum Month celebrations is this weekend at the Teddy Bears’ Party! Saturday, May 28, 1 pm to 3 pm. Supervision required, $5/child, Pre-Register at play.newmarket.ca. All teddy bears & their owners are invited to come out to the Museum to celebrate the Museum’s 40th Anniversary! Games, teddy bear contests, bear hunts, bear-aerobics, displays and light refreshments! Contest Categories are Tallest bear, Bear that looks most like owner and Best dressed Party Bear.
May 25, 2022
Like many of you, earlier this month I participated in the Town’s 44th annual Community Cleanup. There were “cleanup meetups” in every Ward all across Town with helpful volunteers cleaning-up Newmarket’s parks, trails and greenspaces. I’m here with some friends and a group from Grace Church. All those little bits of scrap paper, empty coffee cups, pop cans, and general garbage add up quickly and we picked up a surprising amount. I think we can do better and keep our trash for the garbage can or recycle bins.
May 24, 2022 Take a stroll back in time with #Newmarket as we are excited to launch our new Main Street Virtual Experience on Saturday, May 28. This is a unique self-directed walking experience of art, history and business that pairs local artists from the Newmarket Group of Artists with videos that will take you back in time to learn more about historic buildings on Main Street. If you are visiting downtown, check it out by navigating to the camera app on your smartphone and hovering over the QR code located at one of 17 locations. Details: bit.ly/3Gd9ku0This is a highly collaborative project and many thanks to our partners: • Main Street Newmarket• Friends of the Elman W. Campbell Museum• Newmarket Group of Artists• Newmarket Historical Society• Neighbur
May 20, 2022 Yesterday afternoon was the #Hike4Hospice Kickoff event. Thank you to the Mayor of the Town of NewmarketJohn.Taylor, the Jaggernauth family, and all the staff members who spoke at the event. There’s still time to register and get active in supporting the essential programs and services that our Hospices provide to the York Region community! www.myhospice.ca/hikeforhospice/Doane House Hospice#Hospice#HikeForHospice#Hike4Hospice#Hike#Run#Bike#Walk#outdoors#nature#adventure#hiking#spring#charity#nonprofit#donate#community#fundraising#volunteer#giveback#dogood
May 20, 2022 All Town of Newmarket buildings and facilities will be closed on Monday, May 23 to observe the Victoria Day Holiday. Regular hours will resume on Tuesday, May 24. For municipal emergencies, please call 905-895-5193 and press 3 to be directed to our after-hours service. For power outages, please contact Newmarket Hydro at (905) 895-2309. Central York Fire Services reminds residents to be safe with the use, handling and disposal of fireworks. In Newmarket, fireworks are only permitted for use during Victoria Day and Canada Day weekends. Fireworks are NOT allowed on public property, including parks, streets & open fields/spaces. Fines for improper use of fireworks in Newmarket start at $600 in accordance with Fireworks By-law 2015-18. Residents can report bylaw infractions, such as the use of fireworks, by calling: Town of Newmarket: 905-895-5193 (press 3 for after hours line)Before you set off fireworks, go through this checklist of rules and safety advice: https://www.newmarket.ca/…/Pages/News-Description.aspx…
May 19, 2022 Do you have a composter? Did you know that composting can reduce household waste by 30%?Composting is a natural recycling process in which micro-organisms, worms & insects break down organic matter into a dark, earthy material rich in nutrients. You can reduce kitchen and yard waste while producing a soil conditioner to help the plants growing in it. You can order your Composter from the Town over the phone by calling 905-953-5303 or emailing info@newmarket.ca. The cost is $25 and the Composter will be delivered to your house in about one week. (Please do not email your payment information, we’ll contact you for a credit card info.)
May 19, 2022 May is Museum Month and the Elman W. Campbell Museum has something to see and do for everyone! Queen Victoria Birthday Celebration Saturday, May 21, 11 am to 2 pm. All Ages, supervision required, $5/PP, Pre-Register at play.newmarket.ca Celebrate Queen Victoria’s birthday and enjoy scrapbooking, crafts and a slice of cake! Teddy Bears’ Party Saturday, May 28, 1 pm to 3 pm. Supervision required, $5/child, Pre-Register at play.newmarket.ca All teddy bears & their owners are invited to come out to the Museum to celebrate the Museum’s 40th Anniversary! Games, teddy bear contests, bear hunts, bear-aerobics, displays and light refreshments! Contest Categories are Tallest bear, Bear that looks most like owner and Best dressed Party Bear.
May 18, 2022 The Story Pod is back at Riverwalk Commons and is open for your reading enjoyment from 7:30 am to 11 pm. (closed when raining)Take a book to read at your leisure. Once you’re finished enjoying it, bring it back or bring another book from your own library you’d like to share with the community. Thank you to our sponsors who helped make the Story Pod possible this year; the Newmarket Public Library, Scholastic Canada and Akb Architects
May 17, 2022 In case you missed it the Newmarket Farmers’ Market opened last Saturday and will be open every Saturday from 8am to 1pm at Newmarket Riverwalk Commons right through to October 18, 2022. There are farmers, bakers, vendors and volunteers creating a hive of activity reminiscent of the town’s early years as a “new market”. A place to buy farm fresh produce, home-made baking, hand-made crafts and a great place to meet up with friends.
May 14, 2022 Central York Fire Services (CYFS) is seeking feedback from Newmarket and Aurora residents to help guide and improve their services. Residents can complete an online survey between May 10 to 24, 2022. Your feedback will help with the creation of the CYFS’ 10-year Fire Master Plan which will guide the department in providing effective and efficient fire protection and emergency services to the two communities it serves as they continue to grow. CYFS provides service to 150,000+ residents in Newmarket and Aurora and the CYFS is responding to the needs and realities of the municipalities it serves as the population continues to increase. Fire service leadership is made up of three members of Council from each town, and requires strategic direction to help establish service priorities and informed decision-making. The Fire Master Plan provides a 10-year outlook, a five-year action plan, while reducing fire risk by enhancing the use of the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Three Lines of Defence model:-Public education and prevention-Fire safety standards and code enforcement-Emergency response. Please get involved through the engagement hub by May 24 at: engageaurora.ca and heynewmarket.ca You can read the entire press release here: https://mailchi.mp/newmarket/media-releasecalling-newmarket-and-aurora-residents-to-help-shape-the-next-decade-of-fire-services?e=[UNIQID]
May 13, 2022 The Town of Newmarket is conducting its annual watermain cleaning program that helps to provide safe, high-quality water to residents. This season’s work focuses on uni-directional flushing (UDF) where the watermains are cleaned by flushing sequences of water from one fire hydrant to another. UDF work will take place three to five times a week from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from May 17 until October. During the UDF work, most residents will not notice any changes to their water pressure and/or water clarity. If you see discoloured water, it does not pose a health hazard. Please run your faucet for a short time until the water is clear. Please see the map below for more information on the location of the work. Uni-directional flushing is considered a best practice in preserving high quality water and maintaining the reliability of the water distribution. During UDF work, residents may see water being flushed out of hydrants. UDF involves closing valves in a specific sequence to create water movement in one direction while opening specific hydrants at the end of that sequence. This technique allows for higher water flow velocities by isolating certain sections of watermains. The higher water velocity allows for better scouring of the pipes and can use up to 40% less water in the flushing process compared to conventional flushing methods. Flushing pipes at higher velocities will dislodge and remove mineral deposits, biofilm and sediment that accumulate in the watermains. For more information, view the Watermain Cleaning Program Frequently Asked Questions page on our website here: https://bit.ly/3lbUgDe or call the Town at 905-895-5193.
May 12, 2022 May is Museum Month and the Elman W. Campbell Museum has something to see and do for everyone! They have family friendly activities all month long to celebrate Newmarket’s heritage and culture, as well as the contributions of museums to our communities. Anniversary Celebration Saturday, May 14, 11 am to 2 pm. All Ages, $5/PP; Pre-Register at play.newmarket.ca Celebrate the Museum’s anniversary with us. The 40th Anniversary is known as the Ruby Anniversary. Join us for fun, family activities, a ruby themed display, crafts, photo opportunities and take home activity kits. Queen Victoria Birthday Celebration Saturday, May 21, 11 am to 2 pm. All Ages, supervision required, $5/PP, Pre-Register at play.newmarket.ca Celebrate Queen Victoria’s birthday and enjoy scrapbooking, crafts and a slice of cake! Teddy Bears’ Party Saturday, May 28, 1 pm to 3 pm. Supervision required, $5/child, Pre-Register at play.newmarket.ca. All teddy bears & their owners are invited to come out to the Museum to celebrate the Museum’s 40th Anniversary! Games, teddy bear contests, bear hunts, bear-aerobics, displays and light refreshments! Contest Categories are Tallest bear, Bear that looks most like owner and Best dressed Party Bear. 
May 10, 2022 Later in May, the Town of Newmarket is installing on-Road Traffic Calming Bollards as part of the Speed Management Program. In Ward 2, the installations will be found on :- College Manor Drive, between Pickering Cres and Hollander Rd- Muriel St, between Arthur St and Gorham St- Arnold Cres, between Alexander Rd and 50 metres East from Grace St. Flexible bollards will be temporarily installed to create a visual narrowing of the street to slow down traffic in the area. One center bollard and one or two side bollards will be installed to create a narrowing of the road for drivers. The centre bollard will give drivers extra notice to reduce travel speeds while proceeding through the bollards. In case of impact, these bollards are designed to flex to prevent damage to the bollard and vehicles. The bollards will remain in place until October 2022, when they will be removed for the winter. For more information, please visit: www.newmarket.ca/safetydriven
May 10, 2022 You know the weather’s getting warmer when the Spring Sweeping program begin, and our begins today!!The Town Sweeper has already started sweeping Main, Gorham, Eagle and Water Streets in the downtown area, as well as some bike lanes. The Town’s Contractor sweepers started today in the Northern areas of Town and will work in a southerly direction towards the Newmarket/Aurora boundary lines. This spring clean up usually takes up to four weeks; weather permitting. Once the contractors are finished, the Town sweeper rotates through all areas in town into the fall. And in case you’re wondering, Public Works Services does not take special requests for street sweeping. 
May 9, 2022 A reminder that the Council meeting to discuss the OFFICIAL PLAN AMENDMENT AND ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT for 415 Pickering Crescent is today, May 9 at 1:00 PM. Attend in Council Chambers at 395 Mulock Dr or online at www.newmarket.ca/meetings to consider a proposed Official Plan Amendment to rezone the subject lands to allowing building thirty-two (32) three‐storey townhouse units. 
May 8, 2022 Mom, you’ve shown your little one the world – you stroll down new paths, you open their eyes to be curious and courageous. You sign them up for activities, pack picnics and take them to events to help them discover, grow and be a part of the community. Over the past two years, you’ve found fun and new ways to keep them busy and entertained. To our Newmarket moms, you are the backbone of our community. 
Thank You. Happy Mother’s Day! May 7, 2022 Great news! We’ve partnered with RainBarrel.ca again to offer the sale of rain barrels online! From now until June 7, purchase a rain barrel and have it delivered to your door. Order now: bit.ly/2R699vr 
May 6, 2022 May is Museum Month and the Elman W. Campbell Museum has something to see and do for everyone! They have family friendly activities all month long to celebrate Newmarket’s heritage and culture, as well as the contributions of museums to our communities. Anniversary Celebration Saturday, May 14, 11 am to 2 pm. All Ages, $5/PP; Pre-Register at play.newmarket.ca. Celebrate the Museum’s anniversary with us. The 40th Anniversary is known as the Ruby Anniversary. Join us for fun, family activities, a ruby themed display, crafts, photo opportunities and take home activity kits. Queen Victoria Birthday Celebration Saturday, May 21, 11 am to 2 pm. All Ages, supervision required, $5/PP, Pre-Register at play.newmarket.ca Celebrate Queen Victoria’s birthday and enjoy scrapbooking, crafts and a slice of cake! Teddy Bears’ Party Saturday, May 28, 1 pm to 3 pm. Supervision required, $5/child, Pre-Register at play.newmarket.ca. All teddy bears & their owners are invited to come out to the Museum to celebrate the Museum’s 40th Anniversary! Games, teddy bear contests, bear hunts, bear-aerobics, displays and light refreshments! Contest Categories are Tallest bear, Bear that looks most like owner and Best dressed Party Bear.
May 5, 2022 A reminder that there is a Meeting on Monday, May 9 at 1:00 PM to review & discuss the OFFICIAL PLAN AMENDMENT AND ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT for 415 Pickering Crescent. The public is invited to attend a meeting in Council Chambers, 395 Mulock Dr or view the live stream at www.newmarket.ca/meetings to consider a proposed Official Plan Amendment proposing to rezone the subject lands to Residential allowing to build thirty-two (32) three‐storey townhouse units at 415 Pickering Cres. (image)The purpose of the Monday, May 9, 1:00 PM public meeting is to hear from any person who has an interest in the Zoning By-law Amendment or Draft Plan of Subdivision. Council will not be making a final decision regarding these applications, but will refer all written and verbal comments to Planning Staff to consider and return with a report to a future Committee of the Whole or Council meeting.You can get involved with this application in the following ways: Submit written comments by email to: clerks@newmarket.ca by end of day Sunday, May 8, 2022 to be heard at the meeting. Written comments will also continue to be received after the public meeting has concluded, after the meeting send written comments to planning@newmarket.ca.ORIndividuals may provide verbal representation provide a remote (live) deputation through the Zoom platform during the Council meeting, or attend in person in Council Chambers at 395 Mulock Drive. Residents are strongly encouraged to pre-register for a deputation by completing the form provided at newmarket.ca/meetings or by providing their full name and contact information by registering via clerks@newmarket.ca or by calling 905-953-5300 extension 2203.To find out more information on the application, visit the Town’s website at newmarket.ca/planningapplications and look under the ‘Map of Current Planning Applications’ section, or send an email to planning@newmarket.caThe image below shows the property in question in the red triangle shape. Residents within the red circle will receive written notice of the meeting.
May 5, 2022 Registration for Summer Recreation & Culture Programs opens May 18th! Interested in taking a fun, educational and recreational program this summer? Check out what’s available online starting May 9th. See what interests you and fits your schedule, then register for it starting May 18 at 8:00 AM. Some programs fill up quickly, so get your mouse ready! Visit www.newmarket.ca/activityguide If you click and scroll down that page, you’ll also find current programs for adults and the 55+ crowd. May 3, 2022 Recently the Town held an electronics recycle day that provided residents the opportunity to drop off unwanted electronics. Old computers, monitors, televisions and other items that were no longer being used, were taken to be deconstructed and recycled. Burlap kits to help with the spongy moths, could be picked up by simply entering a different lines. I took advantage of both lines. Thanks to staff for having it so well organized and providing a true service.
May 2, 2022 The Easter Seals organization recently celebrated 100 years of “helping kids with physical disabilities”. Their work is critical to the kids and their families. Thank you Easter Seals! On March 30th, the Easter Seals Ontario Organization celebrated turning 100 at a special event hosted at Cachet Supper Club. Andrea Peterson, the Development Officer of York Region mentioned to me in a letter to me, “turning 100 is nothing we take lightly. When we think of how many children we have been able to help in all those years, we can’t help but feel a sense of great pride.” Easter Seals knows all too well they couldn’t have done it without the generous support of people like us, the volunteers, everyone who participates in and attends events, helping to create awareness and sharing their message, Andrea knows they are both truly blessed and truly grateful. Below are some pictures from that event. Andrea is also a Member and active contributor of the Chamber’s Non-Profit Mastermind Group that I chair every month.
April 29, 2022 So many events have been able to take shape recently, with some of them helping us to get in shape too. The Southlake Run is one of the biggest and best attended of all the fundraisers involving hundreds and hundreds of teams, runners and volunteers. Members of Newmarket Council along with the Mayors from 5 York Region Municipalities were there to support the critical work of Southlake. And yes, we did more than just stand around, we actually ran, jogged and walked raising over $230,000 for Southlake. And our Newmarket Council team was in the Top Ten Fundraising Teams. A BIG THANK YOU to all who sponsored me or anyone else who ran to raise funds, awareness and spirits!
April 27, 2022 With snow in the forecast again, I thought I would remind everyone of what a long, hot fun summer is ahead of us with a full lineup of the community’s most loved events will be back in full swing. The Town is ready to make the summer of 2022 “well beyond the ordinary” for all residents, friends and families. Below are highlights of each event, click the link for details. – Everyone’s favourite, the Tim Hortons Canada Day! Returns with a full day of activities, musical performances, and a spectacular fireworks display!! https://bit.ly/36XfOQE – Moonlight Movies returns throughout the month of August and taking place at various parks throughout Newmarket. Bring a lawn chair, a blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars. https://bit.ly/3JgyMP8 – The TD Newmarket Music Series concerts are back on every Thursday evening from July 7 to September 1. Each concert will feature a local opening act followed by a premier tribute band from approximately 6 to 9 p.m. https://bit.ly/3r8vbwp – June is Pride Month in York Region and the Town of Newmarket is committed to being an inclusive community, welcoming everyone to once again unite to celebrate as one. https://bit.ly/3r52C2Q – New’bark’et Dog Festival returns again with a one of a kind, family-friendly dog festival! Dog lovers will enjoy the selection of pet-related vendors, entertainment and music. Dogs can cool down at the Pooch Plunge, the dog-only swim at the Peter Gorman Outdoor Pool. Presented by Global Pet Foods. https://bit.ly/3NRZgdp – Touch a Truck! This free, fun, hands on event allows you to touch, explore and get up close and personal with a variety of different vehicles. Explore some of your favourite trucks such as a fire truck, Zamboni, backhoe, dump truck and more! Details: https://bit.ly/3LLOuDA – Splash of Culture. Enjoy listening to unique musical performances in a beautifully lit water feature under the stars. Residents can complete their summer with this memorable event on Friday, September 9. Details: https://bit.ly/3v0zpre If the COVID-19 landscape changes, these events are subject to change. April 27, 2022 The 44th annual Community Cleanup is back this year on Saturday, May 7, 2022, with a cleanup event in each ward. Be sure to stop by one of locations listed near you to pick up a free cleanup kit and follow the instructions to help cleanup Newmarket’s parks, trails and greenspaces. I invite you to join-in Ward 2 and meet at the Fairgrounds on Muriel Street from 9 a.m. to noon. Or see the chart below for locations in other Wards.
April 25, 2022 In case you’re wondering. . . . Newmarket Council has granted Campbell’s Amusements Carnival License Application to host the Joe Persechini Charity Midway from May 9th to 15th on the grounds of the Magna Centre. This event is sponsored by Easter Seals Society with all proceeds going to Southlake Regional Health Centre. Cotton Candy anyone?
April 22, 2022 Earth Day 2022! If you use Google for searching, you will have seen their annual Earth Day Doodle which addresses one of the most pressing topics of our time: climate change. Using real time-lapse imagery from Google Earth Timelapse and other sources, the Doodle shows the impact of climate change across four different locales around our planet. Stay tuned throughout the day to view these scenes, each remaining on the homepage for several hours at a time. Simple go to www.Google.com or https://www.google.com/doodles/earth-day-2022 If you want to learn more or participate in an Earth Day event today or this weekend, check out: https://earthday.ca/ April 22, 2022 Run for Southlake! Thank you for those who have made a donation to the Run for Southlake. Many of us have benefited from having such a wonderful hospital right here in our home town and this is a small way to acknowledge that. I am participating in the Southlake Run this weekend and if you are able to do so, please donate to this great cause! Click the link below to connect with my personal donor page. Many thanks, Victor. https://give.southlake.ca/…/RunorWalkforSouthlake/P2P… 
April 20, 2022 OFFICIAL PLAN AMENDMENT AND ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT for 415 Pickering Crescent Meeting on Monday, May 9 at 1:00 PM.
I am participating in the Southlake Run this weekend and if you are able to do so, through me or another participant, please donate to this great cause! Click the link below to connect with my personal donor page. Many thanks, Victor https://give.southlake.ca/…/RunorWalkforSouthlake/P2P… 
April 18, 2022 In case you missed it, the Town of Newmarket is celebrating Earth Week by hosting an electronics recycling event on Saturday, April 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Operations Centre (1275 Maple Hill Court). Drop-off unwanted electronics and know these items will be properly recycled and disposed by the Town’s contractor Quantum Lifecycle Partners LP. (any data will be destroyed.) “Properly disposing of your unwanted electronics will keep these items out of landfills, help to reuse and recycle valuable raw materials and most importantly, save energy, reduce pollution and minimize greenhouse gasses. I encourage everyone to take this opportunity to do some spring cleaning and drop off your old or unused electronics at this event.” says Mayor John Taylor. Bring in any of: Computers, Printers & cartridges, Display devices, Video gaming devices, any type Telephone, Headphones, Speakers, any type Camera, Video recorders, Drones with audio or visual recording equipment, Handheld point-of-sale terminals or devices, Musical instruments, Audio recording equipment, hard drives, peripherals, cables, charging equipment and household batteries. Items such as motor vehicles, children’s toys, textiles, power tools, small and large appliances and information technology, telecommunications, audio-visual (ITT/AV) equipment weighing more than 250kg (551lbs) are not accepted at this event. For additional information, please visit newmarket.ca/ecoevents 
April 13, 2022 This morning, Mayor Taylor and I met students and parents of Prince Charles P.S. as we participated in Walking Wednesday and Spring into Spring month by walking to school. There was a little rain and it was cool for April 13th, but it was a great start to the day! Thank you to Prince Charles for encouraging the walk and to Smart Commute for organizing and continuing to promote alternative ways to get around town. Smart Commute continues to promote getting to school other than by car. Why not walk, bike, scooter, skateboard, rollerblade, or take your magic carpet! On a personal note, four of our children attended Prince Charles from kindergarten through Grade 8 so it is a very special school to me and Becky. 
April 12, 2022 CONGRATULATIONS to our 15 new recruits who have begun their training this week! More photos will come over the weeks as they learn with our team, we look forward to working with all of you. 
April 8, 2022 Earlier this school year, both York Region School Boards initiated a project to support students physical and mental health well-being while keeping school zones safe. The “Active School Travel” program encourages families and students to choose active modes of transportation to get to school, like walk, cycle, or scooter. Walking Wednesdays is a way to encourage that activity and this coming Wednesday, April 13th will be a little bit different! I’ll be walking with Mayor John Taylor who is inviting Prince Charles PS students to participate in Walking Wednesday and Spring into Spring month by walking to school with him. Starting at the southwest corner of Alexander Road and Srigley Street at 8:15, join us and discover how much fun walking to school can be as we walk to Prince Charles PS. Staff from York Region District School Board, York Region, Town of Newmarket, YRP and Smart Commute will also be on hand to greet walkers and provide some fun giveaways. Media may be on hand and there may be some traffic delays. Some of the other initiates taken place include: Bike & Scooter Racks are being installed at pilot school locations Wayfinding Signage; Active School Travel encouragement signs installed indicating 5-minute, 10-minute, and 15-minute distance points from the school. Sidewalk Stencils along various routes within 5-minutes from the school encouraging students on the walking route. New School Pavement Markings on the roadway remind drivers they are entering a school zone. Traffic Safety Tools for traffic calming, such as “No Parking” and “No Stopping”, plus red lines painted to supplement the “No Stopping” signs indicating where pick-up and drop-off is not allowed. and Walking Wednesdays, begun in October 2021, encouraging students and families to walk, cycle and scooter every Wednesday for the entire school year. 
April 8, 2022 Repair Café returns Saturday April 30th! Repair Café in collaboration with NewMakeIt and York Region returns to the Newmarket Public Library. Residents can book a time slot to have their items repaired by volunteers. Volunteer fixers will share their skills and tools. They inspire people to repair items as an alternative to just throwing them away. All you need to do is show up with your broken item and any replacement parts your repair might need. Bring in your small appliances, jewelry, toys, clothing, bicycles, electronics, and other items in need of repair. Our volunteer fixers will do their magic. While you’re there you may just learn a trick or two! Registration is mandatory. One item per registered guest. Please note, there is no guarantee items can be fixed. Register here: https://calendar.newmarketpl.ca/…/2022-04-30-1100… 
Also, items we cannot fix include: Sewing machines, Broken zippers, Hems and alterations, Gas-powered machinery (chainsaws, lawnmowers, snow blowers), Items containing hazardous waste (gas, oil, chemicals, pesticides, etc.), Large kitchen appliances, Single serve coffee machines (e.g. Keurig and Nespresso coffee machines) April 7, 2022 A reminder that Area Regional Conservation Authorities are hosting a free informational webinar on the LDD moth on Wednesday, April 20th at 6:30pm. The webinar will provide an overview of the moth’s life cycle, how to identify them, infestation forecasts for 2022 and management options that property owners can consider. Conservation authority experts will be in attendance to answer questions from participants. Registration for the webinar is open now to Wednesday, April 20th through this registration link: https://trca.ca/…/habitat-protection…/ldd-moth/ A recording of the webinar will subsequently be made available on TRCA’s LDD moth webpage. Please feel free to share this with friends or neighbours or any other interested parties. 
April 7, 2022 In celebration of Earth Week, Newmarket is hosting an electronics recycling event on Saturday, April 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Operations Centre, 1275 Maple Hill Court. Residents can drop-off their unwanted electronics knowing that their items will be properly recycled and disposed of by the Town’s contractor Quantum Lifecycle Partners LP. (any data on your systems will be destroyed.) “Properly disposing of your unwanted electronics will keep these items out of landfills, help to reuse and recycle valuable raw materials and most importantly, save energy, reduce pollution and minimize greenhouse gasses. I encourage everyone to take this opportunity to do some spring cleaning and drop off your old or unused electronics at this event.” says Mayor John Taylor. Bring in any of: Computers, Printers & cartridges, Display devices, Video gaming devices, any type Telephone, Headphones, Speakers, any type Camera, Video recorders, Drones with audio or visual recording equipment, Handheld point-of-sale terminals or devices, Musical instruments, Audio recording equipment, hard drives, peripherals, cables, charging equipment and household batteries. Items such as motor vehicles, children’s toys, textiles, power tools, small and large appliances and information technology, telecommunications, audio-visual (ITT/AV) equipment weighing more than 250kg (551lbs) are not accepted at this event. For additional information, please visit newmarket.ca/ecoevents April 6, 2022 Oh, what a summer it will be!!! After two long COVID years, the Town of Newmarket is very excited to announce a full lineup of the community’s most loved events will be back in full swing this spring and summer. With sunnier days and times ahead, the Town of Newmarket is ready to help make the summer of 2022 well beyond the ordinary for all residents, friends and families. Below are highlights of each event, click the link for details. Everyone’s favourite, the Tim Hortons Canada Day! Returns with a full day of activities, musical performances, and a spectacular fireworks display!! https://bit.ly/36XfOQE Moonlight Movies returns throughout the month of August and taking place at various parks throughout Newmarket. Bring a lawn chair, a blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars. https://bit.ly/3JgyMP8 The TD Newmarket Music Series concerts are back on every Thursday evening from July 7 to September 1. Each concert will feature a local opening act followed by a premier tribute band from approximately 6 to 9 p.m. https://bit.ly/3r8vbwp June is Pride Month in York Region and the Town of Newmarket is committed to being an inclusive community, welcoming everyone to once again unite to celebrate as one. https://bit.ly/3r52C2Q New’bark’et Dog Festival returns again with a one of a kind, family-friendly dog festival! Dog lovers will enjoy the selection of pet-related vendors, entertainment and music. Dogs can cool down at the Pooch Plunge, the dog-only swim at the Peter Gorman Outdoor Pool. Presented by Global Pet Foods. https://bit.ly/3NRZgdp Touch a Truck! This free, fun, hands on event allows you to touch, explore and get up close and personal with a variety of different vehicles. Explore some of your favourite trucks such as a fire truck, Zamboni, backhoe, dump truck and more! Details: https://bit.ly/3LLOuDA Splash of Culture. Enjoy listening to unique musical performances in a beautifully lit water feature under the stars. Residents can complete their summer with this memorable event on Friday, September 9. Details: https://bit.ly/3v0zpre As the Town and province emerges from the pandemic with public health measures continuing to be lifted, the health and safety of the community will continue to be the number one priority for the Town of Newmarket. If the COVID-19 landscape changes, these events are subject to change. (Fingers crossed, it will be a great summer in Newmarket!) April 1, 2022 Water Meter Replacement The second phase of the Town’s mandatory Water Meter Replacement Program is starting. This new digital infrastructure provides residents and the Town with better access to data allowing for the ability to monitor usage and identify leaks and losses. The first phase for 7,000 households began in March 2021. The second phase replaces water meters for approximately 18,000 households. Your household area, when selected, will receive a letter in the mail and you are required to book an in-person appointment with the Town’s contractor WAMCO. Please book within 7 days of receipt of the letter. Their installers will need to access the water meter inside your home and will install a water meter reader outside of the home. There is no cost to you in this mandatory program and an adult, 18+ years old, is required to be at home for the duration of the appointment. Some benefits of the program include the ability: – to conduct remote water meter readings resulting in saved time and improved efficiencies – to improve water meter reading accuracy, no more over or under-registering volumes – to identify leaks and losses within the system before they become a problem – for residents to track water usage through an online portal Appointment Process: Once you receive your eligibility letter in the mail, follow the steps to book an appointment which takes about 30 to 60 minutes and you may experience a water disruption for 10 to 30 minutes. Residents are encouraged to review the Water Meter Replacement booklet that is included with the letter of eligibility to learn more about the appointment, benefits of the program and how to prepare their home for the water meter replacement appointment. Health and Safety Protocols: WAMCO installers are subject to a daily health screening process before heading to work and will be wearing a face mask and staying at least 6ft/2m apart at all times. Residents who have questions about the Water Meter Replacement Program are encouraged to visit newmarket.ca/watermeters, email info@newmarket.ca or call 905-895-5193. 
March 30, 2022 Newmarket is providing residents burlap kits to help combat the nasty Lymantria dispar dispar (LDD). Installing burlap bands on private and boulevard trees will act as a barrier for LDD caterpillars to travel up the tree to feed on the tree’s leaves. Burlap band installation is the most effective when done in the spring as caterpillars will begin to hatch and feed from early May to mid-July. Kits are limited, so sign-up early to get yours at:https://www.heynewmarket.ca/lddmoth Complete the form and choose a pick-up date and time convenient for you. Then on your designated day and time, head over to the Operations Centre, 1275 Maple Hill Court. An email confirmation will be emailed to you once you sign-up. (You’ll need to bring a piece of ID with your address on it.) To install the burlap bands on your trees, follow the installation guide or watch the video on the sign-up page for more information on how to properly install the burlap bands. *Please note that this offer is only available for Newmarket residents / property owners. You must sign-up prior to picking-up the burlap kits. No walk-ups will be allowed as there are limited quantities. 
March 29, 2022 A reminder that the Town is hosting a large production company, cast and crew until April 3 to shoot scenes for a popular television series in the downtown core. The filming portion of the shoot takes place from March 30 to April 1 and will entail the following parking disruptions and intermittent road closures: March 30, March 31 and April 1 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m April 1, 2022: This filming day includes special effects and approximately 100 extras surrounding the Old Town Hall and Market Square parking lot area. Filming has been extended until approximately 11 p.m. followed by site deconstruction which may take until 1 a.m. Locations: Old Town Hall (interior and exterior), Market Square and surrounding areas. See map for details of areas to stay away from. 
March 29, 2022 If your property was affected by the LDD moth this past summer, this upcoming webinar may be of interest to you. Area Regional Conservation Authorities are hosting a free informational webinar on the LDD moth (or spongy moth, previously referred to as European gypsy moth) on Wednesday, April 20th at 6:30pm. The webinar will provide an overview of the moth’s life cycle, how to identify them, infestation forecasts for 2022 and management options that property owners can consider. Conservation authority experts will be in attendance to answer questions from participants. Registration for the webinar is open now to Wednesday, April 20th through this registration link: https://trca.ca/…/habitat-protection…/ldd-moth/ A recording of the webinar will subsequently be made available on TRCA’s LDD moth webpage. Please feel free to share this with friends or neighbours or any other interested parties. March 25, 2022 Today we honour and recognize the United Nations International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slavery. “In the biggest deportation in known history, weapons and gunpowder from Europe were swapped for millions of [Africans] who were shipped across the Atlantic to the Americas. Ships returned to Europe with sugar, cotton and tobacco. Around 17 million African men, women and children were torn from their homes and shackled into one of the world’s most brutal globalized trades between the 15th and 19th centuries. Many died in merciless conditions.” – Reuters, April 30, 2019 The International Day also has a goal to raise awareness about the legacy and dangers of racism today. This year’s theme is: “Stories of Courage: resistance to Slavery and Unity against Racism”. These observances are part of NACCA’s ongoing recognition of the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent. 
March 23, 2022 Newmarket is giving away a limited number of free burlap kits to residents this season to help combat Lymantria dispar dispar (LDD) a.k.a. Spongy Moth. Residents can sign-up to receive their free kit online. Pick-ups will take place at the Operations Centre. Learn more and to sign-up: bit.ly/3isCn1K March 22, 2022 High School students! Are you looking for part time work or a summer job? Check out the Town’s website to see if there is a an opportunity that you might be suited for: https://newmarket.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll
March 21, 2022 A reminder that as of today, March 21, the Town no longer requires patrons entering Newmarket facilities to wear a mask. Please understand that some people may feel more comfortable continuing to wear a mask in public and we should all respect their choice.
March 20, 2022 The Town of Newmarket is hosting a large production company, cast and crew from March 21 to April 3 to shoot scenes for a popular television series in the downtown core. The two-week production will bring revenue to the Town and its businesses and provide profile and excitement for the community. “Restrictions are lifting and we’re sending a message – Newmarket is open for business,” says Mayor John Taylor. “Having a major television series shoot in our Town is an opportunity to shine the spotlight on us, get new people in our shops, restaurants and hotels and bring back the vitality and energy we once felt in our downtown core.”
March 17, 2022 As of March 21, the Town of Newmarket will no longer require patrons entering Newmarket facilities to wear a mask or face covering. I understand that some people may feel more comfortable continuing to wear a mask in public and we should all respect their choice. “…please remember that everyone is adjusting to living with COVID-19 at their own pace. Please be kind, patient and considerate to those who choose to continue to wear a mask and to those that choose not to.” Says Mayor Taylor.
March 15, 2022 WOW! Welcome Spring! It looks we may see a high of 17 degrees on Thursday. Most of our snow will be melting in the next two weeks, but that means we need to be a little more careful walking on trails and even through the parks in town. There may be hidden ice or slippery snow that surprises you and you could go for a tumble. That also means your kids should stay away from ponds and streams as well. Welcome Spring, but be careful out there! March 10, 2022 On Thursday, March 24 at 7 pm, Residents are invited to a virtual presentation & public consultation to learn about and provide feedback on the Town’s NEW Outdoor Rink & Community Space at the Ray Twinney Recreation Complex (RTRC).
February 16, 2022 A reminder that the York Region/Town of Newmarket Public Information Centre is tonight, February 16 from 7:30 to 8:30 pm. Resident feedback is requested on Bike Lane options that for Prospect St/Bayview Ave; installing roadway markings, cycling lanes, signage, removing street parking and more will be discussed. Registration is required. www.york.ca/ProspectBayviewPIC This will relevant to you if you use this roadway or live in the area. Please join us tonight 
February 15, 2022 COMPUTER COLLECTION EVENT NewMakeIt is Newmarket’s industrial and digital workshop, training, and creative facility that helps inventors, visionaries, and innovators achieve their goals. This spring, NewMakeIt is hosting a Computer reuse/recycling event with several donation dates to choose from. IMPORTANT: Hard drives will be wiped clean during a very comprehensive 3-phase process. No worries about any content left on your computer. Check the image below for details.
February 7, 2022 In case you missed it, York Region and the Town of Newmarket are hosting a Public Information Centre (PIC) on Tuesday, February 16 from 7:30 to 8:30 pm to gain resident feedback on options for safer cycling on Prospect St/Bayview Ave. This includes installing roadway markings, adding cycling lanes, signage and removing on-street parking. Registration required: www.york.ca/ProspectBayviewPIC An online mapping tool will be used to demonstrate the options and gather input. This tool will be available on the York Region website for two weeks after the PIC for anyone unable to attend. York Region’s intention is to implement any changes this summer 2022. February 2, 2022 Happy Groundhog Day! On February 2, 1887, Groundhog Day, featuring a rodent meteorologist was celebrated for the first time at Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. According to tradition, if a groundhog comes out of its hole on this day and sees its shadow, it gets scared and runs back into its burrow, predicting six more weeks of winter weather; no shadow means an early spring. 
February 1, 2022 During Black History Month, you can See, Celebrate and Support Black Owned & Operated Businesses. The Ujamaa Black-Owned Marketplace is the foundation to a social enterprise that is intended to unite the Black community around the goal of economic development through cooperative economics. Visit the marketplace digitally to support local Black owned businesses featuring goods for purchase from throughout the Diaspora. 
January 31, 2022 February 1, 2022, marks the beginning of the Chinese Lunar New Year, the Year of the Tiger. For many people of Asian heritage, today will be celebrated with family, friends and loved ones and is traditionally a time to remember ancestors. The zodiac sign Tiger is a symbol of strength, exorcising evils, and braveness. If you are celebrating this season, enjoy a very healthy and prosperous new year! Please see below for virtual Lunar New Year 2022 celebrations happening in York Region and in the GTA: • GTA Lunar Fest- The Year of the Tiger – https://lunarfestgta.ca/ • Toronto Chinese Folk Art Centre – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCWy_nRYc7oNZwlcc9IOTXw • Yee Hong Dragon Ball – https://www.yeehong.com 
January 29, 2022 Bike lanes on Bayview Ave & Prospect Street. York Region is hosting a Public Information Centre (PIC) with the Town of Newmarket on Tuesday, February 16 from 7:30 to 8:30 pm to gain resident feedback on options that would promote safer cycling on Prospect St/Bayview Ave, which are regional roadways, including installing roadway markings, adding cycling lanes, signage and removing on-street parking. Registration is required. An online mapping tool will be used to demonstrate the options and gather input. This tool will be available on the York Region website for two weeks after the PIC for anyone unable to attend. It is York Region’s intention to implement any changes this summer 2022. Expect an advertising blitz in the next two weeks, and if you use those streets or live in the area, you can register here to join the conversation: www.york.ca/ProspectBayviewPIC 
January 28, 2022 The Town of Newmarket has finalized its Digital Transformation Strategy (DTS) https://bit.ly/33RJgWV, enabling the Town to continue improving its service delivery to residents while finding operational efficiencies. The DTS was developed with its consultant, approved by Council in November 2021 is fully funded by the Province of Ontario’s Audit and Accountability Fund. During this process, the Town will improve Residents’ ability to digitally interact with Town services and within the Town Offices, use technologies to revamp and improve work flow processes. I invite you to review the entire Press Release here: https://bit.ly/3KPXGr4 There are links to supporting documents which provide details and insights.| 
January 27, 2022 The Town of Newmarket is very pleased to reopen facilities and resume programming on Monday, January 31. Here’s what is opening. Magna Centre: ice rinks and fitness centre. Pool is closed until March 5th for maintenance. Ray Twinney Recreation Complex: pool and ice rinks. Recreation Youth Centre and Sk8 Park: skate park will reopen. Elman W. Campbell Museum Newmarket Seniors’ Meeting Place The Community Centre and Lions Hall: Vaccination Clinic only Newmarket Public Library (currently open) New Roads Centre for Performing Arts will be available for rentals Old Town Hall will be available for rentals All outdoor amenities in Newmarket remain open: skating at Riverwalk Commons, Dog Park, outdoor skating rink at Lions Park, outdoor basketball, pickleball and tennis courts, all trails, playgrounds and parks. | Programming scheduled to begin on February 1, will start. Cancelled January programs will not be rescheduled. It is the Town’s intention to run spring recreation & culture programs, summer camps & programs. Get e-newsletter alerts when the recreation guide is available here: https://bit.ly/3g5D1Rw The Customer Service Centre at the Municipal Offices remains open Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Or email: info@newmarket.ca or call 905-895-5193. Read the entire press release here: https://bit.ly/34hdwtK 
January 25, 2022 The Newmarket Citizens Band is pleased to announce the appointment of Dale Hayashi Matsushige as its new Conductor. Dale is well known across the York Region music community as both an educator and performer. She has devoted her life to teaching and sharing her knowledge and love of music with high school students in both the Richmond Hill and Newmarket areas. Aside from her teaching career, Dale has spent the last fifteen years as trombonist and Associate Conductor of the Newmarket Citizens Band, trombonist in the After-Hours Big Band and soprano in the York Region Staff Singers. Dale is a graduate of the Royal Conservatory of Music (A.R.C.T.), Concordia University (B.A.) and the University of Toronto (B.Ed.). #TownofNewmarket#concertband#music#artsandculture#YorkRegion#YRDSB 
January 25, 2022 The Town of Newmarket has negotiated a draft agreement with Shining Hill Estates Collection Inc., the developers of 16250, 16356 & 16450 Yonge St. See image. The agreement protects 80 acres of environmentally significant lands and details several other significant contributions to the Town, such as to build a sustainable community, to build a community with green housing options, acreage for affordable housing, new walking trails, an off-leash dog park, a clubhouse with courts, the planting of 5,000+ trees, and at least one acre of land and the construction of a community garden. For more information, please see the full press release at https://bit.ly/3nXyx3K. The agreement will be discussed at the Committee of the Whole Meeting on January 31 at 1 pm and you are invited to watch the live-stream at newmarket.ca/meetings. Residents who wish to participate in the meeting can do so via a virtual or written deputation by emailing clerks@newmarket.ca. 
January 25, 2022 Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association “Ignorance of each other is what has made unity impossible in the past.” -Malcolm X In recognition of Black History Month and this year’s theme: Harnessing Allyship and Leadership, NACCA’s virtual Ujamaa Black-Owned Marketplace will run from February 1st to February 28, 2022. The aim is to spotlight and bring visibility to the vibrancy of Black entrepreneurship and economic self-reliance.
January 24, 2022 Eat Local: Trade parking Tickets for Takeout in Newmarket The Town of Newmarket launched the Tickets for Takeout incentive program to support its restaurants during the indoor dining closure. Until January 31, 2022, residents can have their Newmarket parking ticket cancelled in exchange for purchasing takeout from a local restaurant. Restaurants are set to reopen back to 50 per cent capacity, based on the province’s latest announcement. Newmarket residents who receive a parking ticket from the Town on or between January 21 – January 31, 2022, can have their ticket cancelled if they provide a receipt from a Newmarket restaurant in an amount equal to or greater than the parking set fine. The restaurant receipt must be dated after, and within 5 calendar days of the ticket issuance date, not before. If you are a resident of Newmarket and receive a parking ticket between these dates, you can simply: Email parkingtickets@newmarket.ca and provide your: Ticket number + proof of residency (e.g. Driver’s License, utility or tax bill) + photo of your receipt from a Newmarket restaurant. Tickets must be submitted by: February 7, 2022 Your ticket will be cancelled and you will receive confirmation of this via email. Visit newmarket.ca/parking for more information. 
January 21, 2022 The 2022 Interim Tax Bill should be arriving in your mailbox soon, sorry! The Interim Tax Bill is an estimate of your 2022 property tax which is to be paid in 3 installments, February 25, March 25 and April 25, 2022. Many of us pay our tax bills over 10 months between February and November with payment taken on the 15th or last business day of the month. Learn about alternative ways you can pay your taxes here: https://bit.ly/3tLrNKb January 19, 2022 In case you missed it, the Forest Green development on Leslie St, across from, and about 100 metres north of Pfaff Volkswagon hosted a Public Information Centre last night. That’s when the public gets a chance to meet with the Developer to review their plans and provide input. For information on the development, click https://bit.ly/3mfRAWm There are letters, plans, drawings and more for your review. As this is in Ward 2, if you have any comments or concerns, please get in touch with me and I will respond. Landscape Master Plan 
January 14, 2022 Next week is your last chance for real Christmas tree pick-ups. Collection will on your your usual recycle pick-up day from January 18 through January 21. Remove all decorations, tinsel, lights and tree bag prior to collection. Trees taller than 1.8 metres/6 ft high will not be picked-up unless cut into smaller pieces. If you miss pick-up. please keep your tree until yard waste collection begins in the spring. Or contact a goat farm in the area and ask if they would like your tree, then drop it off. 
January 11, 2022 During this past term, currently 3 years, Town Council has agreed to prioritize 6 areas to enhance living, working and visiting in Newmarket. During the last election and since then, I have personally spoken with many residents about issues that are important to them and I consider this input as a Member of Council. I would love to work on and resolve all concerns that you may have, however, as a your Town Councillor, I understand that the Town can only prioritize a few items that the entire community finds important.
January 10, 2022 Today, the York Regional Police has officially opened their new #1 District facility in Newmarket. The District Headquarters is located at 429 Harry Walker Parkway South allowing for the closure of the current station on Prospect St, which is now closed to the public.
January 10, 2022 A reminder that the Town has closed all indoor recreation facilities and cancelled all winter programming in response to latest provincial COVID announcement. This will be in effect until at least January 26th in accordance with provincial regulations. You can review the entire list here: https://bit.ly/3HUrhx0 or read it below:
January 3, 2022 Happy New Year! Up until the Province’s new Covid policies were announced, the biggest issue on some townfolks minds was “when is my Christmas tree being picked up?” So I’ll deal with that one first. . . . Christmas tree (real trees only) collection will take place during your usual pick-up day this week, January 4-7 & January 18-21. Please remove all decorations, ornaments, tinsel, lights as well as any tree bag prior to collection. Do not place Christmas trees on top of, inside or behind a snowbank as Collection staff will not dig through a snowbank to retrieve a tree. Trees will not by picked up if taller than 1.8 metres/6 feet high. Please cut in two if tree exceeds this height. If you have a Christmas tree for disposal after your scheduled collection day, please keep your tree until yard waste collection begins in the spring. Alternatively, trees can be taken to a York Region waste depot that accepts yard waste (fees apply). For collection inquiries, please contact our waste collection contractor Green for Life Environmental at 1-866-421-5625 or via email at WasteLine@gflenv.com.
December 30, 2021 Earlier this month, the Mayor presided over the Official Grand Opening of the newest location of Supermoon Japanese Style Cheesecakes at 695 Stonehaven Ave (at Bayview) in Newmarket. I’ve heard the cheesecakes are delicious and the reputation is building already. In the picture of me wearing one of my favourite sweaters, you’ll notice MP Tony Van Bynen photobombing me. Either that or he was on his way to order a cheesecake to go! 
December 29, 2021 Earlier this month, the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) shared their new home with the community. The Mayor, along with myself and Members of the NACCA were on hand for the Official opening the first Black-led Community Centre in York Region at their new location at 449 Eagle Street. Congratulations on this milestone! 
December 23, 2021 In case you missed it, the Town of Newmarket has cancelled Tim Hortons First Night, Frozen Fridays & the Mayor’s New Year’s Levee in an effort to curb the spread of the Covid-19 Omicron Variant. “I know that many residents were looking forward to ringing in the New Year with us at the Town’s First Night event after another incredibly difficult year. However, with cases of COVID-19 increasing rapidly we have decided to cancel the Town’s New Year’s activities, as well as my Levee,” says Mayor John Taylor. “This decision has been made to both limit gathering to reduce the spread of the aggressive Omnicom variant and enable the Town to shift our staff and resources to support vaccine clinics.”
December 22, 2021 Just look at all those presents under the tree!! Residents and staff have been very generous in their continuing support of the Town’s Toy and Food Drive. All the food items were delivered to the Newmarket Food Pantry where they are packaged up based upon families’ needs. (and that need is an all the time need, not just a Christmastime need, thank you!) And yesterday, we (Deputy Mayor Vegh and I) handed over all the toys to our local Salvation Army for distribution to families in our community. (that tree looks awfully barren now.) Pastor Brian Bishop provided some insight into the need and how much this contribution helps. We are are thrilled by the generosity of the Newmarket Community. Thank you on behalf of all those little smiles that still believe! 
December 17, 2021 Growth, Jobs, new Business & new Neighbours. Here is an update on developments in Ward 2. Of note is the Forest Green development on Leslie St, across from and about 100 metres north of Pfaff Volkswagon. They will host a Public Information Centre at the end of January. That’s when the public gets a chance to meet with the Developer to review their plans and provide input. 2022 should be a busy year for these developments with new information being released and public meetings taking place. For information on any of the developments, click the links below to see the plans, submissions, revisions, etc. To go directly to the Town interactive Planning page, click: https://bit.ly/3mggGEx Also, there are 3 more commercial buildings planned for Stackhouse Road. These projects will moved quickly and tenants and jobs may be moving in late 2022. We know that warehouse space in the GTA is at a premium and this may speak to that need. And we have seen the notice about Costco moving to Harry Walker Parkway just south of Davis. That building should take place in 2022 as well with their move happening in 2023. 66 Roxborough – https://bit.ly/3F5FTIZ 849 Gorham Street – https://bit.ly/3dYFJHy 16920 & 16860 Leslie St – https://bit.ly/3mfRAWm 415 Pickering Crescent – https://bit.ly/3p6Tg6p 1240 Twinney & 1250 Davis – https://bit.ly/3e0xz1h 
December 16, 2021 In case you missed it, the Town of Newmarket is receiving a $3.8 million in funding from the Ontario Government Community Infrastructure Fund. Mayor John Taylor said the $3,849,231 in funding will contribute to major projects, like the Mulock Park and the Mulock multi-use path. The funds will be allocated to support other projects as well, still yet to be determined. Now that’s a nice Christmas gift to the Town! More great news for Newmarket! The Town has received a donation of 16 acres of land from Marianneville Developments Ltd. to be used for the development of parks, open space and trails. (And to support the existing stormwater management facilities in the area.)
December 13, 2021 Some residents have been asking about the possibility of an additional yard waste pick-up this fall. The Town would like to accommodate the request, especially with the abundance of late falling leaves, but unfortunately can not. This requires that the contractor be available for pick-up & disposal, but they are operating at capacity and cannot undertake additional work. Another suggestion was to provide yard waste collection in conjunction with Christmas tree collection. But these materials are considered very different waste products and would require separate pick ups. And unfortunately the Town cannot provide yard waste pickup during the winter season for a number of logistical reasons. So your options are to find a safe place to store your leaves over the winter months, or dispose of them at a yard waste collection facility. As mentioned last month, that last option is not free. Residents can drop off their yard waste to one of three York Region waste depots listed below. Because there is a fee for disposal and you have to deliver the bags in person, why not ask a neighbour or two if they are in the same predicament and share the cost. Town Staff Is looking into how we may provide greater flexibility for fall waste collections going forward in future years. including exploring extending Fall 2022 pick-ups. We will monitor the situation and if warranted and possible, adjust as necessary.
December 9, 2021 The 2022 Waste and Recycling Calendar is now available online for downloading here. You can also visit the page and then bookmark it or save it as a favourite. If you haven’t looked at in in a while, please do as it contains details on extra tags for additional waste pick-up, waste depots contact info, about the Town’s textile recycling program, 2022 Curbside Giveaway Days and what goes into which container. You can also download the Town Recyling Mobile App. This free mobile app provides you with a personalized collection calendar, collection reminders, notifications, recycling and disposal information and the report-a-problem feature. Never miss another collection! December 6, 2021 Hundreds gathered at Riverwalk Commons Friday night to be a part of the Opening Ceremonies of Frozen Fridays and Official Lighting of our Winter Wonderland. This year again, kids of all ages can enjoy a wonderful location to skate outdoors all winter long. With all the lights on the trees, it is an outstanding place to go for a walk and take-in how pretty the park is all lit up! And before Christmas, there will be several more Live DJ and live entertainment nights, two on Fridays, two on Thursdays. Friday, December 10, 2021 – Bex in Motion Friday, December 17, 2021 – Zola Molotov Thursday, December 23, 2021 – Lucy Loop from Hoop You Thursday, December 30, 2021 – Bex in Motion 
December 3, 2021 A reminder that tonight is the Official Opening & musical light shows on our 18′ LED tree. Opening Night Schedule: 6:30pm Riverwalk lighting ceremony 6:45pm first LED tree light show 7:00pm LED/fire busker performance by Lucy Loop from Hoop You 7:15pm LED tree light show 7:45pm LED tree light show 8:00pm LED/fire busker performance by Lucy Loop from Hoop You 8:15pm LED tree light show At Riverwalk Commons. Live DJ Music, outdoor skating, train rides, weather permitting, hot chocolate, LED/fire busker performances & more. 
December 2, 2021 Again this Holiday Season, the Town of Newmarket & Chamber of Commerce have partnered up to get the Community shopping & supporting LOCAL. The importance of supporting local during the holidays and beyond cannot be overstated as most of our local businesses are owned by our neighbours.
November 30, 2021 Starting tomorrow December 1st, the Town is launching our new online booking rental solution called CatchCorner. It will start with offering ice bookings first, then gradually expand to other services such as halls, meeting spaces and outdoor facilities. The Town of Newmarket is the first municipality in Canada to formally partner with this innovative company to provide a strong, customer focused solution.
November 26, 2021 Newmarket launches Sidewalk Snow Marker pilot program. Sign-up to get a free set of sidewalk snow markers! Sidewalk snow markers are thin poles you insert into the ground to identify edges of your lawn that become covered by snow during the winter. These snow markers act as visual aids/guides for sidewalk snow plow operators when plowing the sidewalk in your neighbourhood. Having a visual aid will signal to the operator where the edge of your lawn is, ultimately helping to reduce damage to the sod that can be made by the sidewalk snow plow. Sidewalk snow markers will significantly help snow plow operators due to low visibility during inclement weather.
November 19, 2021 You may have heard that the historic Clock Tower on Main Street was sold last week. The good news is it will be redeveloped into a boutique hotel and will fit in nicely with the ongoing revitalization of downtown Newmarket. It will be a unique addition to our downtown experience. The proposed plans for the Clock Tower focus on interior renovations and include an addition on the back with a rooftop event space providing panoramic views of the Town. The plans for this historic boutique hotel align with Newmarket’s commitment to economic leadership and job creation, which is one of Council’s key strategic priorities. It also supports the Economic Development Strategy to advance Newmarket as a desirable destination within the GTA. The Clock Tower was constructed in downtown Newmarket between 1914-1915 to serve as the community Post Office. A major addition was added in 1956 and most recently the building was used as a Seniors’ residence. The Clock Tower is designated under the Ontario Heritage Act and remains a prominent landmark on Newmarket’s Main Street. Read more in the official press release: https://bit.ly/3DTYmrt or see the plans & application here: https://www.newmarket.ca/clocktower 
November 19, 2021 The Newmarket Dog Park will reopen to the public effective today, Friday, November 19 at 4 PM. The Dog Park was closed as a safety precaution due to some dogs that had been at the park came down with a mysterious illness. Test results from the soil and organic matter samples taken from the Dog Park were inconclusive. After consulting with local veterinarians, neighbouring municipalities and industry experts, it was determined that the cause of some dogs becoming ill is most likely due to a virus. As a result, the Dog Park will be reopening to the public.
November 17, 2021 Central York Fire Services & the Town of Newmarket are excited to unveil the coolest vehicle in the fleet: it’s actually a Zamboni wrapped as a fire truck. It will be stationed at the outdoor rink at Riverwalk Commons for ice-clearing duties all winter long. It’s meant to clean ice and break the ice on the fire safety conversation within your family. “Public education for fire safety is our number one priority which is why we’re excited to bring the ‘Coolest Fire Truck in Canada’ to Newmarket’s outdoor rink for the 2021-2022 season,” says Chief Ian Laing.
November 10, 2021 We Remember! On November 11, The Royal Canadian Legion will be hosting a virtual ceremony through Facebook Live at facebook.com/CanadianLegion beginning at 10:45 a.m. A two-minute moment of silence will be held at 11 a.m. The Newmarket Veterans’ Association and tune in to their live stream ceremony on November 11 at 11 a.m. View the livestream on YouTube. Participate in upcoming events virtually around Canada by visiting www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/events. And please, wear your Poppy! Proceeds go towards financial assistance to support Veterans and their families who are in need. 
November 7, 2021 On Thursday of this past week, we enjoyed the official opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for Sports Spinal and Solutions Clinic located at 712 Davis Drive in Ward #2.
November 1, 2021 Last evening at Riverwalk Commons, many families and seniors came to see the wonderful Pumpkin designs during the Pumpkin Parade! The evening was coolish and ghoulish, but perfect for this time of year. The Town staff provided hot apple cider and a cool photo spot. I’m not certain how many people came by to look at pumpkins carved as goblins and witches, black cats and scary bats, but it was a wonderfully busy evening filled with oooohs & aaaaahhhs. 
October 21, 2021 The Town would like your input as we prepare for the 2022 budget. We are asking residents to rank important services through an online survey before November 19. Your input will help Council determine where to invest your tax dollars and all participants will be entered into a draw for a chance to win a $100 gift card to a local Newmarket business.
October 14, 2021 A reminder that effective November 1, All individuals 12 years of age and older are required to provide proof of full vaccination for entry into any Town facility or recreation program, including access to the Customer Service Kiosks at the Magna Centre and the Ray Twinney Recreation Complex. This includes 12 to 17 year-olds who are participating in an organized sport who currently have an exemption. That exemption is over October 31, 2021.
October 7, 2021 In case you didn’t know, the Elman W. Campbell Museum is hosting Saturday Museum Pop-Ups offering FREE Outdoor Fun from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each week is a different theme offering free family activities, displays and photo opportunities on the front lawn. During inclement weather museum activities will be offered indoors. COVID-19 health and safety protocols will be followed. October 9, 2021 Importance of Bead Work October 16, 2021 Learning from Animals October 23, 2021 Early Playtime October 30, 2021 Halloween Register at play.newmarket.ca. And for more information about the Museum, click: https://bit.ly/306UBju 
October 1, 2021 The Town of Newmarket will be enforcing the new guidelines from the York Region’s Medical Officer that effective October 1, 2021, all persons aged 12 and older, including those playing, coaching, and spectating organized sports must be fully vaccinated.
September 10, 2021 A reminder that this year’s FREE Pooch Plunge 2021 takes place tomorrow, September 11, from 10 AM to 4 PM. Pre-registration is required and sessions are 45 minutes in length. One weekend each year, Gorman Outdoor Pool “goes to the dogs” and is available for a dog only swim before the pool closes down for the winter. The pool enclosure is off-leash and fully fenced in. Gorman Pool is located at 424 D’Arcy Street. COVID-19 Protocols will be in place and registration is for Newmarket residents only. Click Here to Register: https://play.newmarket.ca/Activi…/ActivitiesDetails.asp… 
Included below is an assortment of content that I also post on Facebook, plus photos I have taken during events that I have attended as a Town Councillor and/or during my travels in Town as a resident of Ward 2. October 12, 2021 Wondering what to do with that old phone, laptop, printer or ???? The Town is hosting an Electronics Recycling Event on Saturday, October 23rd at the Robert N. Shelton Operations Centre, 1275 Maple Hill Court. This will be done via drive-thru/drop-off to keep residents and staff at a safe distance following COVID guidelines. Most electronic devices are accepted, but to be sure, check here: https://bit.ly/3FGdolNRECYCLE NOTE: The recycling company states that they destroy any data left on a device, but it is still recommended that all personal info be deleted from your device. October 7, 2021 In case you didn’t know, the Elman W. Campbell Museum is hosting Saturday Museum Pop-Ups offering FREE Outdoor Fun from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each week is a different theme offering free family activities, displays and photo opportunities on the front lawn. During inclement weather museum activities will be offered indoors. COVID-19 health and safety protocols will be followed. October 9, 2021 Importance of Bead Work October 16, 2021 Learning from Animals October 23, 2021 Early Playtime October 30, 2021 Halloween Register at play.newmarket.ca. And for more information about the Museum, click: https://bit.ly/306UBju October 1, 2021 The Town of Newmarket will be enforcing the new guidelines from the York Region’s Medical Officer that effective October 1, 2021, all persons aged 12 and older, including those playing, coaching, and spectating organized sports must be fully vaccinated.
September 29, 2021 The Newmarket Public Library is adding Decodable books for beginner readers and for children with dyslexia. These books are a wonderful resource to support reading development in beginning readers, but they are especially effective for children with dyslexia. Decodable books are written using strategies that support ‘decoding’, using letter sounds and English spelling patterns to sound out a word. Look for the library’s decodable books for children soon. And to see all the great educational and informational workshops at the Library in October, click: https://bit.ly/3B7Nkh7 September 28, 2021 Beacons of Light. Tonight at Riverwalk Commons and the Fred A. Lundy Bridge/waterfall in Newmarket, Ontario. 
September 27, 2021 September 28 is NATIONAL BRITISH HOME CHILDREN DAY. A beautiful stone and memorial garden were unveiled yesterday in Duncan, BC in honour of some of the 120,000 destitute children sent to Canada as indentured servants. Approximately 75% (108,000) of these children neglected, as well as physically, emotionally, and sexually abused. About 12% of Canada’s current population (over 4,000,000 people) are descendants of these children.
September 27, 2021 The Town of Newmarket in collaboration with our Indigenous partners is inviting the community to remember and reflect on September 30, as we recognize the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. We will honour the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities this Thursday, Sept 30 at 4:30 PM at the Fairy Lake Park Amphitheatre.
September 22, 2021 Starting today, Sept 22, the Town of Newmarket is requiring proof of full vaccination status to enter certain indoor public settings. From today to October 31, all individuals 12 years of age and older must provide proof of full vaccination to enter a Town facility including Customer Service Kiosks at the Magna Centre and the Ray Twinney Recreation Complex. The Newmarket Public Library is exempt from this regulation. As of November 1, all individuals 12 years of age and older must provide proof of full vaccination for entry into any Town facility.
September 16, 2021 The Town is starting to prune trees and shrubs around Town that may interfere with winter snow clearing operations. The work is done by properly trained staff and may take about 4 to 5 weeks. If you want additional information, email info@newmarket.ca or call the Town at 905-895-5193. I guess I had better do some yard work this weekend too! September 14, 2021 Did you avoid the crowds and take advantage of the early voting dates? We were was able to make it over to the voting station and cast our vote yesterday.
September 13, 2021 York Regional Police are seeking witnesses following a serious collision in the Town of Newmarket when a child on a bicycle was struck by a vehicle on Thursday, Sept 9, 2021, at approximately 6:15 pm near Poppy Lane and Sherman Brock Circle. The eight-year-old boy was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries. The driver of the vehicle, a 2020, black Lincoln Navigator, remained at the scene and was not injured. The investigation is ongoing and any witnesses who have not yet spoken with police, or anyone who may have dashcam footage from the area, are being asked to please come forward. September 8, 2021 The Town of Newmarket is partnering with York Region, Smart Commute Central York, the YRDSB and the YRCSB to introduce an Active School Travel Program. This pilot program includes visible infrastructure components installed to help increase the safety of pedestrians of all ages in school areas. The Town will be painting curbs red around six school zones and installing signage to catch the attention of drivers and enhance the safety of children walking to school. Most of the work will be completed by the end of this week (weather dependent). The following school areas were chosen for this pilot program: Stonehaven Elementary School (875 Stonehaven Avenue) Notre Dame Catholic Elementary School (715 Kingsmere Avenue) St. Elizabeth Seaton Catholic Elementary (960 Leslie Valley Drive) Alexander Muir Public School (75 Ford Wilson Boulevard) Prince Charles Public School (684 Srigley Street Maple Leaf Public School (155 Longford Drive)
September 7, 2021 The Town has reinstated the parking exemption permit limit as of today, September 7. Due to COVID-19, modifications were made to the Town’s Parking Exemption Program and all fees associated with the program were waived. As of today, the Town will be aligned with other York Region municipalities by re-implementing the 15 night limit on exemptions permitted per vehicle per year. There will be no cost for the parking exemptions for the remainder of 2021. As a reminder, Newmarket’s Exemption Program is in place from April 16 to October 31. Beginning November 1, winter parking restrictions will begin and no further exemptions will be granted for on-street parking. To keep roadways safe and free for biking, we encourage those who have the space to please park in their garage and driveways. For information please visit: newmarket.ca/parkingexemptions. 
September 6, 2021 This really great news as York Region continues it’s leadership in land acquisition and world standard forest management. 42 hectares (350 acres) at the corner of McCowan and Queensville side road, land located on the Greenbelt and the Moraine natural core area has been purchased by York Region. This site will also see 82 hectares reforested. This is a significant step forward in our greening strategy and our efforts to combat climate change. September 2, 2021 The Town is looking to serve our residents better digitally by establishing a Digital Transformation Strategy that will act as a guide for change. A key part of this process is your input and we want to hear how well (or otherwise) you think we are doing in providing digital services and how you want to see this change in the future. To help in this process, we are asking you to complete a short 10-minute survey. All participants will be entered into a draw to win 1 of 10, 20-visit recreation passes for skating / swimming! The survey will be open until September 10 at 5 p.m. You can find the survey and more information here: https://www.heynewmarket.ca/digitalstrategy 
September 1, 2021 Newmarket moving ahead with policy requiring all staff to be vaccinated. At Monday’s Council meeting, it was decided that the Town of Newmarket will move forward with a required vaccination policy for all staff. With COVID-19 cases rising throughout the province and the Delta variant continuing to cause significant concerns, this is an important step to continue to protect the health and safety of the Newmarket community and Town staff.
Included below is an assortment of content that I also post on Facebook, plus photos I have taken during events that I have attended as a Town Councillor and/or during my travels in Town as a resident of Ward 2.October 12, 2021 Wondering what to do with that old phone, laptop, printer or ???? The Town is hosting an Electronics Recycling Event on Saturday, October 23rd at the Robert N. Shelton Operations Centre, 1275 Maple Hill Court. This will be done via drive-thru/drop-off to keep residents and staff at a safe distance following COVID guidelines. Most electronic devices are accepted, but to be sure, check here: https://bit.ly/3FGdolNRECYCLE NOTE: The recycling company states that they destroy any data left on a device, but it is still recommended that all personal info be deleted from your device. October 7, 2021 In case you didn’t know, the Elman W. Campbell Museum is hosting Saturday Museum Pop-Ups offering FREE Outdoor Fun from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each week is a different theme offering free family activities, displays and photo opportunities on the front lawn. During inclement weather museum activities will be offered indoors. COVID-19 health and safety protocols will be followed. October 9, 2021 Importance of Bead Work October 16, 2021 Learning from Animals October 23, 2021 Early Playtime October 30, 2021 Halloween Register at play.newmarket.ca. And for more information about the Museum, click: https://bit.ly/306UBju October 1, 2021 The Town of Newmarket will be enforcing the new guidelines from the York Region’s Medical Officer that effective October 1, 2021, all persons aged 12 and older, including those playing, coaching, and spectating organized sports must be fully vaccinated.
September 29, 2021 The Newmarket Public Library is adding Decodable books for beginner readers and for children with dyslexia. These books are a wonderful resource to support reading development in beginning readers, but they are especially effective for children with dyslexia. Decodable books are written using strategies that support ‘decoding’, using letter sounds and English spelling patterns to sound out a word. Look for the library’s decodable books for children soon. And to see all the great educational and informational workshops at the Library in October, click: https://bit.ly/3B7Nkh7 September 28, 2021 Beacons of Light. Tonight at Riverwalk Commons and the Fred A. Lundy Bridge/waterfall in Newmarket, Ontario. September 27, 2021 September 28 is NATIONAL BRITISH HOME CHILDREN DAY. A beautiful stone and memorial garden were unveiled yesterday in Duncan, BC in honour of some of the 120,000 destitute children sent to Canada as indentured servants. Approximately 75% (108,000) of these children neglected, as well as physically, emotionally, and sexually abused. About 12% of Canada’s current population (over 4,000,000 people) are descendants of these children.
September 27, 2021 The Town of Newmarket in collaboration with our Indigenous partners is inviting the community to remember and reflect on September 30, as we recognize the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. We will honour the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities this Thursday, Sept 30 at 4:30 PM at the Fairy Lake Park Amphitheatre. September 22, 2021 Starting today, Sept 22, the Town of Newmarket is requiring proof of full vaccination status to enter certain indoor public settings. From today to October 31, all individuals 12 years of age and older must provide proof of full vaccination to enter a Town facility including Customer Service Kiosks at the Magna Centre and the Ray Twinney Recreation Complex. The Newmarket Public Library is exempt from this regulation. As of November 1, all individuals 12 years of age and older must provide proof of full vaccination for entry into any Town facility.
September 16, 2021 The Town is starting to prune trees and shrubs around Town that may interfere with winter snow clearing operations. The work is done by properly trained staff and may take about 4 to 5 weeks. If you want additional information, email info@newmarket.ca or call the Town at 905-895-5193. I guess I had better do some yard work this weekend too! September 14, 2021 Did you avoid the crowds and take advantage of the early voting dates? We were was able to make it over to the voting station and cast our vote yesterday.
September 13, 2021 York Regional Police are seeking witnesses following a serious collision in the Town of Newmarket when a child on a bicycle was struck by a vehicle on Thursday, Sept 9, 2021, at approximately 6:15 pm near Poppy Lane and Sherman Brock Circle. The eight-year-old boy was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries. The driver of the vehicle, a 2020, black Lincoln Navigator, remained at the scene and was not injured. The investigation is ongoing and any witnesses who have not yet spoken with police, or anyone who may have dashcam footage from the area, are being asked to please come forward. September 8, 2021 The Town of Newmarket is partnering with York Region, Smart Commute Central York, the YRDSB and the YRCSB to introduce an Active School Travel Program. This pilot program includes visible infrastructure components installed to help increase the safety of pedestrians of all ages in school areas. The Town will be painting curbs red around six school zones and installing signage to catch the attention of drivers and enhance the safety of children walking to school. Most of the work will be completed by the end of this week (weather dependent). The following school areas were chosen for this pilot program: Stonehaven Elementary School (875 Stonehaven Avenue) Notre Dame Catholic Elementary School (715 Kingsmere Avenue) St. Elizabeth Seaton Catholic Elementary (960 Leslie Valley Drive) Alexander Muir Public School (75 Ford Wilson Boulevard) Prince Charles Public School (684 Srigley Street Maple Leaf Public School (155 Longford Drive)
September 6, 2021 This really great news as York Region continues it’s leadership in land acquisition and world standard forest management. 42 hectares (350 acres) at the corner of McCowan and Queensville side road, land located on the Greenbelt and the Moraine natural core area has been purchased by York Region. This site will also see 82 hectares reforested. This is a significant step forward in our greening strategy and our efforts to combat climate change. September 3, 2021 It’s hard to believe that the Labour Day Weekend is upon us so soon. I hope you enjoy yours as we get ready for a usually very busy week ahead. Here are a few reminders for you. The Newmarket Customer Service Centre and Magna Centre + Fitness Centre will be CLOSED on Monday, September 6 for the Labour Day Holiday. The Newmarket Youth Centre is closed from Sept 3 to Sept 13. The Outdoor Gorman Pool is open on Monday from 10 am to 7:45 pm but you must register for swimming in advance at play.newmarket.ca A reminder that the setting off of Fireworks is not permitted in Town. Fines start at $600. Ouch! In case of a municipal emergency this weekend, please call 905-895-5193 and press 3 to be directed to our after-hours service. In case of a power outage, please call Newmarket-Tay Power Distribution Ltd. directly at 905-895-2309. And most importantly, many children are heading back to school on Tuesday and all next week. It’s an exciting time and kids may be distracted crossing the street. So please be aware and extra vigilant when driving and yes, please obey the speed limit in school zones.
September 1, 2021 Newmarket moving ahead with policy requiring all staff to be vaccinated. At Monday’s Council meeting, it was decided that the Town of Newmarket will move forward with a required vaccination policy for all staff. With COVID-19 cases rising throughout the province and the Delta variant continuing to cause significant concerns, this is an important step to continue to protect the health and safety of the Newmarket community and Town staff.
August 24, 2021 COVID-19 and Vaccination Update In York Region, more than 76% are fully vaccinated and more than 82% of eligible individuals age 12+ have received their first dose. York Region is closing its mass immunization clinics and opening community pop-up vaccination clinics. As of August 19, 2021 – 869,500 York Region residents have received at least one COVID-19 vaccination dose – 804,507 York Region residents are fully vaccinated (two doses) The Town of Newmarket Recovery team continues to discuss plans for a safe, gradual reopening of more in-person customer services at the Municipal Offices. You may have heard that the City of Toronto announced mandatory vaccination of its employees. Our Recovery Team is monitoring the situation closely while ensuring we remain aligned with York Region Public Health Guidelines. We may be issuing an updated statement outlining guidelines soon. As always, you can visit the Town page for updates any time at: https://www.newmarket.ca/…/Pages/News-Description.aspx… 
August 17, 2021 Starting today and until Aug 27, the Town is running its Blue Box Campaign to educate residents on what actually should be placed into a Blue Box. Town staff is performing random visual inspections of materials placed at the curb for recycling. The purpose of this program is to remind residents of what belongs and what does not belong in the blue box while identifying those residents who are doing a good job recycling. If Town staff visits your area, residents can expect to see one of two different sets of door hangers left on your door. One door hanger will identify that there are items in the blue box that do not belong. The other door hanger will identify that residents are doing a great job with their recycling efforts and to keep up the good work. Blue box contamination includes many things such as plastic shopping bags, plastic bags full of recyclables, Styrofoam, take-out cups, food left in containers, liquids left in bottles, etc.
August 9, 2021 This is good news for residents. York Region’s fully vaccinated residents rate is over 70% and continues to rise. In light of this number, York Region has decided to close the Ray Twinney Complex mass immunization clinic on August 26. Those with appointments scheduled after that day will be contacted by York Region to reschedule their appointments. Residents can also reschedule their appointment online at http://www.newmarket.ca/covid19vaccineinfo 
August 4, 2021 For those living in the area of Southlake, I strongly suggest joining to learn what may occur in the next few years. 
August 4, 2021 York Regional Police Investigators are seeking a suspect and witnesses after property damage occurred in Newmarket on Thursday, July 29, 2021. Sixteen planters were tipped over along Main Street in Newmarket. Officers obtained video surveillance and determined that a lone male suspect pushed over the planters at approximately 3:45 a.m. Investigators learned that the suspect had been at the Grey Goat Pub on Main Street prior to the incidents. Anyone who can identify him, please contact the York Regional Police at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7142, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com. 
July 30, 2021 From the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association. . . . . In 1793, our first Lieutenant Governor John Graves Simcoe, passed an Act Against Slavery which ended the importation of enslaved Africans to Upper Canada. Emancipation Day! Simcoe Day is celebrated annually, but very few people are aware of Emancipation Day. August 1, 2021 has been proclaimed Emancipation Day in the Town of Newmarket. This morning at 10 am, an official flag raising ceremony in recognition of this significant historic milestone in (Black) Canadian history took place at Peace Park (Cane Pky). The Pan-African flag will be flown from July 30th-August 2nd in recognition of Emancipation Day. In addition, the Riverwalk Commons and Fred A. Lundy Bridge located on Water Street will be illuminated in green on July 30th from sunset until 11:00 PM. 
July 19, 2021 It’s summer and if you can, it’s wonderful being outside. Go for a walk, ride or get fit with one of Newmarket’s outdoor fitness opportunities. You can take an Aqua Fit class at the outdoor Gorman Pool or an outdoor fitness class at the Magna Centre. Participants must pre-register ahead of time at play.newmarket.ca. New time slots will be open to Newmarket residents one day in advance at 8 a.m. or more information on programs, schedules, registration information and how the Town is keeping participants safe, please visit newmarket.ca/swimming or newmarket.ca/fitness July 16, 2021 Town of Newmarket Council has appointed Ian McDougall as the new Chief Administrative Officer of Newmarket effective on July 19. Mr. McDougall has been with the Town since 2003, progressing through various roles, including Director, Recreation & Culture and most recently holding the position of Commissioner, Community Services for the past nine years. “I have worked closely with Mr. McDougall for 15 years and I have come to know him both as an exceptional leader dedicated to excellence in community building but also as a person of integrity who approaches everyone he works with from a place of respect and collaboration.” says Mayor John Taylor. I too have worked with Ian and have found him to helpful, insightful and always professional. I know the Town will do well having him in this role of CAO. You can read the entire press release here: https://mailchi.mp/…/media-release-town-of-newmarket…
July 1, 2021 Canada Day Reminders In Newmarket, fireworks are only permitted for use during Canada Day, the day before and the day after. Fireworks are NOT allowed on public property, including parks, streets and open fields/spaces. Fines for improper use of fireworks in Newmarket start at $600 in accordance with Fireworks By-law 2015-18. Newmarket residents can report bylaw infractions, such as the use of fireworks, by calling the Town’s After Hours Line at 905-895-5193 (press 3). For more information, safety tips and links to Town by-laws, visit cyfs.caIf your waste & recylce pick-up is on Thursday this week, it will be moved to Friday. Friday pick-up will be on Saturday. Happy Canada Day! June 29, 2021 Flags at all Town of Newmarket and Central York Fire Services buildings are flying at half-mast to mourn the 751 unmarked graves discovered at a cemetery near the former Marieval Indian Residential School in Saskatchewan. “Having taught at an Indigenous run school in Saskatchewan and Manitoba I find this revelation deeply troubling and I recognize the impact it will have on multiple generations of Indigenous families across the country. “says Mayor John Taylor. “On behalf of the Town of Newmarket, I would like to extend my condolences to the Chippewas of Georgina Island and all Indigenous communities across Canada. We mourn with you and stand with you during this difficult time.”
June 21, 2021 Upper Canada Mall expansion application meeting. A reminder that the Town of Newmarket is holding an electronic Public Meeting today, June 21 at 1:00 PM which will be streamed live at newmarket.ca/meetings. The purpose of the meeting is to hear from anyone who has an interest in the above noted applications. Upper Canada Mall’s has submitted a plan for changes. While it will still exist, this plan proposes to add 5,100 residential units, a new road system, 4,500 parking spaces above/below ground and approximately 4.5 acres of new public parks. You can find out more and see the application on the town website here: https://bit.ly/34GVOgu 
June 15, 2021 Flushing, not blushing. . . Our annual Watermain Cleaning Program is now underway and you may see the Town’s contractor IQ Environment performing uni-directional flushing around Town this summer. You may also notice a slight drop in water pressure, or some water discolouration in your neighbourhood. This iis not a health risk and to clear up the water, simply run your faucets for a few minutes until the water clears up. For additional Information click: http://bit.ly/3q3rQNkWaterMain June 10, 2021 The Town is expanding dates and pick-up times for the free burlap giveaway to trap Lymantria dispar dispar (LDD). The Town is now offering pick-up on Saturday, June 12 and Sunday, June 13 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at the Magna Centre (800 Mulock Drive) west parking lot area. More details are available here: https://www.newmarket.ca/mediareleases 
June 10, 2021 The Town would like your thoughts on the Mulock Multi-Use Path! Tonight from 7 PM to 8 PM, virtually: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87520492596 The Town is looking into building a multi-use path (MUP) along Mulock Drive that will run from Bathurst Street to Harry Walker Parkway. This east-west path will allow for cycling, walking, jogging and wheelchair access. The goal for the Mulock Drive MUP is to allow the community to connect to key destinations in Town such as the future Mulock GO Station, existing trails, schools and the future MulockProperty. Join us today, June 10 from 7-8 p.m. via Zoom. Town Consultants WSP will be presenting the preliminary findings of the feasibility study, answer your questions and gather your feedback. Please click the link to join the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87520492596 June 9, 2021 At the June 8 Special Council Meeting, Town of Newmarket Council unanimously approved a budget of $40 million in capital spending authority for the development of the Mulock Property. There will be no property tax impact for residents because the project will be funded through development charges, assessment growth and other funding sources. “The development of the Master Plan for the Mulock Property has been a lengthy, detailed and engaging process for Council and the community,” says Mayor John Taylor. “I am pleased to say that through responsible budgeting and planning for the future, the Mulock Property’s operational and capital charges will be fully funded by growth and will have no tax implications to Newmarket residents. The vision for the Mulock Property was born from your feedback through an extensive public engagement process and I am confident that it will become one of the very best parks in the GTA. This park, when complete, will stand the test of time, and be enjoyed by us and many generations to come.” See the full press release here for additional details. June 5, 2021 The Town of Newmarket is offering a free outdoor ceremonial space to all Newmarket schools that wish to host outdoor graduation ceremonies. The Town wants to do everything possible to support and celebrate the achievements of all Newmarket students who are graduating this school year. “This is one small way we can help to bring some positivity and a ray of sunshine to our community, by recognizing the hard work and dedication of graduates of all ages. Our goal is to make this as safe and as easy as possible for the schools to host in-person outdoor graduations, which is a major milestone that deserves to be celebrated.” says Mayor John Taylor. The free outdoor ceremonial space will be the Amphitheatre at Fairy Lake Park and will include a stage, sound system, on-site staff and limited seating. Schools will be able to book ceremonies any time from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Friday. Interested schools can request a booking and more information by emailing recreation@newmarket.ca All public health measures will be strictly followed. June 3, 2021 Upper Canada Mall’s owner, Oxford Properties Retail Holdings Inc. has submitted a plan for changes. While Upper Canada Mall will continue to exist, this plan proposes to add approximately 5,100 residential units, a new road system, 4,500 parking spaces above/below ground and approximately 4.5 acres of new public parks. The Town of Newmarket will hold an electronic Public Meeting on Monday, June 21 at 1:00 PM which will be streamed live at newmarket.ca/meetings. The video will be available after the meeting as well. The purpose of the meeting is to hear from anyone who has an interest in the above noted applications. Council will not be making any final decisions at this time. You can find out more and see the application on the town website here: https://bit.ly/34GVOgu If you want to get involved, written comments may be emailed to clerks@newmarket.ca by end of day June 20th, 2021. If you wish, you can speak to Council during the live meeting through video conferencing. Provide a remote (live) deputation through the Zoom platform during the Council meeting. Due to the technical requirements of joining an electronic meeting, residents are strongly encouraged to pre-register for a remote (live) deputation by completing the form provided at newmarket.ca/meetings or by providing their full name and contact information by registering via clerks@newmarket.ca or by calling 905-953-5300 extension 2203. June 2, 2021 In preparation for the upcoming Special Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for June 16, Town staff has engaged with stakeholders who may be impacted by the proposed Personal Wellness Establishment regulations. Please help us get the word out to groups and individuals who may be interested in these proposed regulations. Staff have prepared a video to explain each section and to welcome input on the specific regulations identified. If you believe this may impact you, or anyone you know, please ask them this, watch the video and provide your feedback to: licensing@newmarket.ca Click this link to watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwGXk7NnGm4&t=1s 
May 31, 2021 It started with 6 year old Phyllis Webstad, It was 1973 and she lived with her grandmother on the Dog Creek reserve. Her granny bought her a new, shiny orange shirt for the first day of school. “It had string laced up in front, and was so bright and exciting – just like I felt to be going to school!” At the Mission School, they took away her clothes, including the orange shirt! They wouldn’t give it back. “The color orange has always reminded me of that and how my feelings didn’t matter, how no one cared and how I felt like I was worth nothing. All of us little children were crying and no one cared.” Today, Phyllis is married, has one son, a step-son and five grandchildren. She is the Executive Director of the Orange Shirt Society, and tours the country telling her story and raising awareness about the impacts of the residential school system. She has now published two books, the “Orange Shirt Story” and “Phyllis’s Orange Shirt” for younger children. Today, we are wearing an Orange shirt to help create awareness of of the concept that “Every Child Matters”
May 27, 2021 those pesky moths. . . . Lymantria dispar dispar, or commonly known as Gypsy Moths, are an invasive insect that are currently the talk of the Town. These tiny, pesky caterpillars will eat the leaves of many trees but they find oak species the most delicious! Even after several years of attacks, most healthy will survive defoliation as they can usually regrow their leaves back within two to three weeks. The Town is taking some action and many residents are wondering what we can do in our own trees. The Town has some answers, so please click the link and find out what to do. https://www.newmarket.ca/…/Environment…/LDD-Moth.aspx York Region has some additional information here: https://bit.ly/2QXh3r7 
May 21, 2021 Happy Friday! A few reminders for this weekend. . . . ~the Farmer’s Market is on at Riverwalk Commons on Saturday from 9:00 AM until 1:00 pm with safety protocols in place. ~lighting of Fireworks on public property is against the law. ~you can light fireworks from your own property if: you adhere to safety protocols; do it between 9:30 PM and 11:00 PM; do it on Victoria Day, or the day before or after; be mindful of your pets, fireworks scares most dogs and cats ~street sweeping continues. . . ~rain barrels are on sale until June 7th. https://rainbarrel.ca/newmarket/ ~the Town office is closed from today at 4:30 PM to Tuesday at 8:00 AM. For emergencies, you can call 905-895-5193 and press 3 for an operator.~there is a virtual Meeting of the Committee of the Whole on Tuesday at 1:00 PM. You can join us at www.newmarket.ca/meetings May 20, 2021 Victoria Weekend Hours. The Customer Call Centre will be closed all weekend, from Friday, May 21 at 4:30 pm to Tuesday, May 25 at 8:00 AM for the Victoria Day Holiday. Regular hours of operation will resume on Tuesday, May 25th from 8 am to 5:00 pm. For emergencies, please call 905-895-5193 and press 3 to be connected to our after-hours service. For power outages, please call Newmarket Hydro at 905-895-2309 Find additional closers here: https://www.newmarket.ca/…/Pages/News-Description.aspx… May 18, 2021 Who does that??? After almost a week of rain and then a week of sunshine, the dandelions are in full bloom! This is the time when the Town’s lawn mower brigade hits the parks and fields to keep the grass nice and short and the ‘lions under control. Newmarket has more green space, parks and fields than most communities our size and it takes a lot of staff and equipment to handle the all that mowing. The Town Works has to find that balance of fiscal responsibility versus dandelions and grass so we have a ten day cutting cycle that delivers a good solution for both. In case you’re wondering, here is a snippet of what gets done and in what rotation. And if your parkette or grassy area is missing, don’t worry, it’s on the final list. And remember, they may not cut in the pouring rain.
May 10, 2021 A reminder that you’ll be seeing our contract Street Sweepers out & about starting today. Beginning in the southern areas of Town, they will work their way north towards Green Lane. The spring clean-up should take up to four weeks to complete. Once this initial spring cleanup is completed, the Town sweeper rotates through all areas keeping up with general sweeping maintenance into the fall. 
May 5, 2021 Join us today, May 5 at 5 p.m. for a virtual commendation ceremony as Mayor John Taylor and Central York Fire Services Fire Chief Ian Laing recognize two Newmarket residents, Joshua Mazzotta and Rob Franceschinis, for their heroic involvement in saving a family from a local house fire. Watch on Facebook here: https://fb.me/e/UTeUvuPX Here’s why we’re celebrating some local heroism….On April 26, at about 5 a.m., Joshua Mazzotta was stopped at an intersection near Warby Trail when he noticed smoke and an orange glow coming from the house. Joshua ran to the house and was able to wake up the family and call 911. Due to intense smoke and heat, the residents were unable to exit the house through the main floor. The residents climbed out on a balcony to escape the smoke. Joshua continued yelling for help to get the attention of a neighbour, Rob Franceschinis. Rob grabbed a ladder from his garage and together Joshua and Rob set up the ladder to the balcony. Rob assisted the residents down the ladder to safety and away from the fire scene.
April 18, 2021 In accordance to the Province’s enhanced public health measures announced Friiay, Newmarket has closed all outdoor amenities to the public. Outdoor amenities that will be closed include: all playgrounds, (UNDER REVIEW) outdoor fitness equipment, basketball courts, pickleball and tennis courts, sport fields, baseball diamonds and the Newmarket dog park.
April 9, 2021 A reminder that the virtual Meeting of the Committee of the Whole is being streamed live on Monday, April 12, starting at 1:00 PM directly from the Municipal Offices. Please visit https://www.newmarket.ca/meetings to watch the Meeting or to review a video of it afterwards.
March 15, 2021 The winter has been long enough for me, thank you, but after last week’s spring-like weather, it’s mostly all melted! As it melts, you may be seeing some damage to your lawn as a result from snow removal crews. The Town’s snow removal contractors are responsible for any damage their crews do to resident’s property and will repair it. If you see some damage to your property caused by snow removal, please report it by email, at customerservice@newmarket.ca or by calling 905-895-5193. 
March 11, 2021 The Town is set to launch a Water Meter Replacement Program. The replacement and upgrading of water meters will take place in phases to ensure COVID Health and Safety protocols are met. ~1st Phase will upgrade water meters less than 10 years, approximately 7,000 households. Affected residents will receive notice by mail soon as this work is expected to start towards the end of March. For these houses, the new digital water meter reading device is installed directly on top of the existing reader outside your house, so entry into your home is not required. ~ Phase 2 will begin after Phase 1 is completed. This will see the replacement of approximately 18,000 water meters and requires the installer to enter the resident’s home. This Phase will be dependent upon Public Health guidelines at the time and again, affected households would be notified directly by mail. Due to the on-going pandemic, we will seek advice from Public Health to ensure this work can be done safely. There is no cost to the residents to have this work done and there will be no service disruptions. Benefits of upgrading the water meters include: ~ Improved water meter reading accuracy~ Ability to conduct water meter readings remotely, not on-site ~ Ability to easily identify leaks and losses within the system ~ Residents can track water usage through an online portal The water meter upgrade work will take place on an area-by-area basis and you will receive a letter in the mail with an approximate time frame for this work to be done. More information can be viewed at newmarket.ca/watermeters. If you have any questions regarding the installation, please email info@newmarket.ca or call 905-895-5193. 
March 4, 2021 Incredible news for Newmarket! Mayor Taylor received a letter of confirmation today that the Government of Ontario has committed financial support to the Town of Newmarket through the 2021 COVID-19 Recovery Funding for Municipalities program in order to support your COVID-19 operating costs and pressures. Newmarket will receive $2,458,182.00 in funding. Enough money for pizza and tacos for everyone for a long weekend!! BUT, being the prudent Council that we are, we will use it wisely to offset the costs of dealing with COVID recovery in Town and report back to the Government of Ontario all the expenditure details. 
March 2, 2021 The Town of Newmarket continues to try and limit the financial impacts of COVID-19 to our budget. And in consideration of that, the Town will save approximately $500,000 to $600,000 this year with some service changes which include: Reverting back to the three-bag garbage limit as of April 6, 2021. At the beginning of the pandemic a temporary five garbage bag limit was put in place to assist residents who were staying at home. It was always a temporary measure and as of April 6, the Town will revert back to the bi-weekly. three bag garbage limit. Garbage bag tags are available for purchase if additional bags/items are required. For more information visit newmarket.ca/garbagecollection
February 26, 2021 The Town of Newmarket is pleased to move forward with its reopening plan now that we are within the red-control zone. The Town’s reopening plan continues to provide safe recreation opportunities and events to the community while balancing the significant financial impacts of COVID-19.
February 25, 2021 The Newmarket Anti-Black Racism Task Force is undertaking a survey to gain insight on community members’ lived experiences in relation to anti-Black racism in Newmarket. Task Force members have developed a survey that will provide meaningful input to them as they develop recommendations to Council. The survey is open until March 31. It is important to launch this survey during Black History month. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TGLKDF7 February 20, 2021 A reminder that the virtual Meeting of the Committee of the Whole is being streamed live on Monday, February 22, starting at 1:00 PM directly from the Municipal Offices. Please visit https://www.newmarket.ca/meetings to watch the Meeting or to review a video of it afterwards. 
February 20, 2021 On Friday, it was announced that York Region, including Newmarket would be reopening and moving to the Red-Control Zone effective Monday, February 22. York Region will no longer be subject to the stay-at-home order; however Public Health strongly advises people to stay at home and avoid social gatherings to help limit the spread of COVID-19.
February 11, 2021 The Town of Newmarket has just launched its new online Council Strategic Priorities Dashboard. This dashboard will be updated bi-annually so that residents can track the progress of Council initiatives while viewing the decision-making and planning process. Residents can also see how Council is fulfilling the Town’s vision of a “well beyond the ordinary” community. Strategic Priorities were determined through results gathered from the Town’s Community Survey Results in 2018, coupled with engagement sessions with Newmarket staff and Council members.
February 4, 2021 Ward 2 building update. A new application has been received by the Town of Newmarket for a Zoning By-law Amendment for 17188 Leslie St, situated between Lemar & Gorham streets, proposing to rezone the land to permit a 3-storey private Montessori school with daycare.
February 2, 2021 If you haven’t seen it yet, there is an interesting article in Newmarket Today regarding speeding in town. (find it here: http://bit.ly/3toBzzo ) I was quoted stating at the Council meeting on Monday “That seems to be the No. 1 issue we hear at the door, speeding in their neighbourhood,” We hear complaints from residents and when it results in a petition being presented to the Town, we’ll send out Staff to check the speeds or analyze the traffic patterns. But what seems like speeding doesn’t always prove to be speeding.
February 1, 2021 Keith Davis Tennis Club You may have heard that indoor air quality testing results for chlorinated solvent impacts (trichloroethylene/ an industrial solvent) inside the Tennis Club were slightly higher than Ministry standards. This is likely attributed to historic industrial or commercial activities in this area of Newmarket. The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, York Region Public Health, the Town’s environmental consultants all determined that the clubhouse and tennis bubble were safe for use. You can read the full press release here: http://bit.ly/3tkLiGA Should residents have any questions or concerns, they may contact the Town of Newmarket at 905-953-5300 ext. 2040. 
January 26, 2021 Newmarket Council introduced a new Financial Relief Program to replace the 2020 program expiring January 31, 2021. The new Program hopes to will provide relief to residents and businesses experiencing financial challenges during the pandemic, including: ~Waiving penalties & interest on unpaid property taxes for eligible residential property owners (through an application process) ~Increasing the existing property tax assistance rebate to elderly residents from $320 to $450; ~Increasing the existing residential water and waste water rebate from $354 to $420; and, ~Providing a water rebate of $1,000 for eligible small businesses (through an application process) Please click to read all the details and what may apply to you and/or your business: https://www.newmarket.ca/financialreliefprogram January 21, 2021 2020 was a crazy year for most of us, and the word I heard most often used to describe what we had to do was PIVOT! We all had to adapt in many ways and I believe we’re all stronger for it.
January 18, 2021 The Newmarket Planning Department has been working on a new website that better communicates current planning applications. This website is live at: http://newmarket.ca/planningapplications The website is map-based, allowing residents to see the geographic location of planning applications and access additional information for each. ~Click on an application and some application highlights are provided, in many instances, a link to the technical report is provided. ~ The ward boundaries can be turned on by clicking on “Ward Boundaries” in the Layer List. ~ The map explains where the planning application falls geographically and provides the staff contact info for each Area. 
January 14, 2021 A reminder of the Zoning Change Proposal Meeting being held electronically on Monday, January 18th, at 1:00 PM regarding the lands north of St John Sideroad, just west of Yonge St being streamed live at newmarket.ca/meetings. This is to consider a proposed Amendment to re-designate the area to permit a portion of the lands to be developed for a mix of low/medium residential, institutional, commercial, office, parks and open spaces uses.
January 14, 2021 Newmarket temporarily closes all outdoor skating and community rinks until the Town seeks further clarification on stay-at-home orders from the Province of Ontario. The Province of Ontario recently declared a state of an emergency and issued a stay-at-home order requiring everyone to remain at home with exceptions for essential purposes, such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy, accessing health care services, for exercise or for essential work. This order will be in effect as of Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 12:01 a.m. As we seek further clarification and interpret the available information, the Town will be temporarily close all outdoor skating and community rinks as well as suspending tobogganing for the next 48 hours. More information will be provided when it becomes available. January 10, 2021 COVID 19 updates (All subject to change.) Ontario remains in a full province-wide shutdown for 2 more weeks, until Saturday, January 23. Elementary & high school students will continue virtual learning until Friday, January 22, returning to in person schooling on Monday, January 25. The Ray Twinney Complex is now a Vaccination centre where 1,000 people per day can be vaccinated. Vaccinations will be administered to people identified as priority in the first phase of the Vaccination roll-out. The Point of Light store in Newmarket has been ordered closed after continuously opening for in-person retail shopping against provincial orders. Point of Light is offering a curbside pickup only. January 5, 2021 Zoning Change Proposal Meeting The Town of Newmarket Council will hold an electronic Public Meeting on Monday, January 18th, 2021 at 1:00 PM regarding the lands north of St John Sideroad, just west of Yonge St.
January 4, 2021 Christmas Tree Pick-up will take place this week, from January 5 though 8th and again from January 19 to 22nd on your regularly scheduled waste and recycling pick-up day. Please remove decorations, tree skirts, stands and/or plastic tree bags. Trees must be no taller than 6ft (1.8m) for pick-up. If yours is taller than that, please cut it into appropriately sized pieces. For more information, visit newmarket.ca/christmastreecollection January 1, 2021 Happy New Year Everyone! Here’s wishing you and yours health and happiness in 2021. 
December 22, 2020 Holiday Hours The Municipal Offices at 395 Mulock Dr remain closed for in-person services due to the COVID-19. Contact the Town by phone at 905-895-5193 or emailing info@newmarket.ca for assistance.
December 15, 2020 The Province announces lockdown for Newmarket and all of York Region. As you may have heard, the Province of Ontario announced that York Region, including the Town of Newmarket, has entered into a lockdown (grey zone) of the Province’s COVID-19 Response Framework.
December 15, 2020 At the Newmarket Town Council meeting yesterday, Council approved the 2021 budget that will result in a 1.98 per cent tax increase (Town portion). This is 1.01 per cent lower than the originally proposed 2.99 per cent increase, recognizing the added financial pressure the community faces as a result of COVID-19.
December 11, 2020 There is a Town of Newmarket Council Electronic meeting on Monday, December 14, at 1:00 PM. It will be streamed live at newmarket.ca/meetings. This meeting focuses on the 2021 budget and charges and fees approvals, rooftop patios, established neighbourhood compatibility study Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments. Please join in or watch the live feed. All the details can be found at https://www.newmarket.ca/meetings December 7, 2020 There is a Committee of the Whole today, Monday, Dec 7, 2020 starting at 1:00 PM. You can watch it live from the Municipal Offices online at newmarket.ca/meetings. This meeting will be concerning the Draft 2021 Operating and Capital Budgets. There is a very detailed document which can be viewed within today’s Agenda, click: https://pub-newmarket.escribemeetings.com/FileStream.ashx… December 4, 2020 Mayor Taylor enacted Emergency Order No. 2 yesterday to support the Provincial and Public Health regulations for businesses under the Reopening Ontario Act, Health Protection and Promotion Act and any other legislation introduced in relation to COVID-19.
December 3, 2020 In case you missed the Town of Newmarket’s Electronic, Special Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, December 01, 2020, I invite you to click this link to watch the recording of it here: https://pub-newmarket.escribemeetings.com/Meeting.aspx… or if you want to skip right to the Mulock Property design concept, click the above link. When the video recording appears, click below the video where you see 201201 Council Update.pdf and view the .pdf of the entire presentation. 
November 30, 2020 There is a Special Committee of the Whole tomorrow, Tuesday, Dec. 01, 2020 starting at 1:00 PM and will be streamed live from the Municipal Offices online at newmarket.ca/meetings. This meeting will be concerning the Mulock Property Emerging Design Concept. Lisa Rapoport, the PLANT Architect Inc., will be in attendance to provide a presentation on this matter. November 30, 2020 Zoning Change Proposal Meeting The Town of Newmarket Council will hold an electronic Public Meeting on Monday, January 18th, 2021 at 1:00 PM regarding the lands north of St John Sideroad, just west of Yonge St.
November 26, 2020 Did you know . . . This year’s Stormwater Charge will appear as a line item in your December 2020, January 2021, February 2021 and March 2021 Newmarket Hydro Bills. This change was made in an effort to streamline the process to keep all water-related charges on one bill. The Stormwater Charge is not a new charge and has been previously collected with property taxes. 
November 25, 2020 Budget Time! Give us your thoughts on the 2021 Budget by completing a brief survey. Click here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Y3RQV9M Your feedback will help Council determine where to invest your tax dollars. All residents who participate will be entered into a draw for a $100 gift card from a local restaurant in support of our Choose Local Campaign. Survey closes on December 3. 
November 23, 2020 NEW COVID-19 STATUS FOR YORK REGION York Region is under a modified Red-Control zone while Toronto and Peel Regions have moved to Grey-Lockdown zone today. York Region has issued an Order under the Health Protection and Promotion Act, effective today, for ensuring compliance with safe COVID-19 protocols at banquet halls, shopping malls and all retail establishments.
November 18, 2020 Mental Health It’s been 8 long months since the pandemic started….and winter is looming. Mental health issues related to our lockdown and the pandemic are especially hard for people with depression and other mental concerns. The Canadian Mental Health Association, has a 24-hour helpline: 1-833 456-4566 or Klinic Crisis Line 1-888-322-3019 Toll Free. November 16, 2020 There is a Committee of the Whole meeting today, Nov. 16th at 1 PM. Like all meetings during COVID, It is streamed live at newmarket.ca/meetings. There is a virtual Council Workshop on Tuesday, Nov. 17th at 1 PM an Educational Session – Southwest Quadrant of Town & surrounding lands and there is a virtual Public Planning & Council Meeting next week on Monday, Nov 23rd at 1 PM.
November 9, 2020 What’s open and closed; please click the link below for full details. Please review and follow the safety measures in place for each open amenity. Remember to wear a mask or face covering when inside the facility, practice physical distancing, wash hands frequently and most importantly, stay home if you’re experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms. All patrons visiting a Town facility will be subject to a health screening process. https://www.newmarket.ca/…/Health…/covid19updates.aspx November 4, 2020 Pumpkin Parade Winners! If you haven’t yet seen all the ghoulishly wonderful entries from this year’s Pumpkin Parade, stop by the Town page here: https://www.newmarket.ca/pumpkinparade and be sure to watch the video too! Thank you to everyone who stopped by to enter. Was your pumpkin in our parade this year? 
November 3, 2020 The Town of Newmarket is hosting a live 2021 Budget Engagement Virtual Session on Facebook this Thursday, November 5th at 7 PM. You can learn all about the proposed details and Staff will be on hand to answer all your questions. Find out more about the 2021 Budget at newmarket.ca/2021budget 
October 26, 2020 As you may know, York Region returned to modified stage 2 COVID-19 status. Here is an overview of which Town facilities and programs are open and running: * Magna Centre * Lane Swim * Public Swim * Aqua Fitness resumed today, October 26* Ice rinks by user groups only Youth Centre and Sk8 Park indoor skate park only Ray Twinney Recreation Complex ice rinks only Newmarket Public Library is open with limited in-person services. Full listing is available here: http://www.newmarket.ca/reopen October 23, 2020 Newmarket Budget A reminder that residents can learn how to get involved in our budget process by visiting newmarket.ca/2021budget. Every year the Town of Newmarket creates a detailed budget to meet the needs of the community and at the last Town Council Meeting, a budget proposal with a 2.99 per cent increase was presented.
October 20, 2020 Need a new Green Bin, Blue Box or Kitchen Catcher? This is Waste Reduction Week, October 19th through the 25th, and the Town is offering these containers at a reduced rate of $6 for a Blue Bin, $15 for a Green Bin, and $3 for a Kitchen Catcher. You can order by email at info@newmarket.ca or by calling the Town at 905-953-5303. A customer service associate will call you back to arrange payment and the bins will be delivered to your door by GFL. Please note, there are no walk-ins or pick-ups allowed at any Town Facility at this time. Questions about recycling? visit: https://www.newmarket.ca/wasteandrecycling 
October 15, 2020 Every year the Town of Newmarket creates a detailed budget to meet the needs of the community now and in the future. At the last Town Council Meeting, a budget proposal with a 2.99 per cent increase was presented, that’s an average increase of $64.79 for a residential property assessed at $700,000.
October 10, 2020 The Honorary Citizen Award is presented in recognition of an individual or group for their outstanding service and commitment to the Town of Newmarket. The Ceremony took place on Friday with the Town recognizing our first responders, front line and essential workers for their service above and beyond the call of duty!
October 10, 2020 Survey of the 3 design concepts for the Mulock Property Over the past year, thousands of community members came together to learn about the Mulock Property and share their experiences along with their ideas for the future of the site.
October 9, 2020 A reminder there is an online Council meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 13th at 1 PM. It will be streamed live at newmarket.ca/meetings. This will include the Official Plan Amendment & Zoning By-Law Amendment for 66 Roxborough Road among other issues. In order for written comments to be included in the public meeting, written comments must be received by end of day October 12th, 2020. You van email: clerks@newmarket.ca Individuals can make a verbal representation via live remote deputation through the Zoom platform during the Council meeting. Residents are strongly encouraged to pre-register by completing the form at newmarket.ca/meetings or by providing their full name and contact information by registering via clerks@newmarket.ca or by calling 905-953-5300 extension 2203. October 7, 2020 66 Roxborough Road There is an Official Plan Amendment & Zoning By-Law Amendment electronic Public Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, October 13th, 2020 at 1 PM. The meeting will be streamed live at newmarket.ca/meetings. The video of the meeting can be viewed later on the Town’s website. YOU CAN PARTICIPATE! Written comments may be emailed to clerks@newmarket.ca. In order for comments to be received by Council at the statutory public meeting, written comments must be submitted by end of day October 12th, 2020. Individuals can make a verbal representation via live remote deputation through the Zoom platform during the Council meeting. Residents are strongly encouraged to pre-register by completing the form at newmarket.ca/meetings or by providing their full name and contact information by registering via clerks@newmarket.ca or by calling 905-953-5300 extension 2203. 
October 2, 2020 849 Gorham Street Newmarket Today has a good recap story of the proposed development for 849 Gorham between Alexander and Carlson Dr/Doak Lane. The developer wants to build 20 townhouse units and a semi-detached house on the property. Read it all here: https://bit.ly/36qnXu7 View all the proposal details here: https://bit.ly/2Sr4uRM 
September 30, 2020 The future of the Mulock Farm Property LIVE Facebook Event! Our community’s ideas have helped to shape and inspire design concepts that will bring the Mulock property closer to its future as an inclusive, diverse, natural and forward-thinking destination for Newmarket residents.
September 25, 2020 A reminder that the Meeting of the Committee of the Whole is being streamed live on Tuesday, September 29, starting at 1:00 PM directly from the Municipal Offices.
September 23, 2020 ATTENTION 66 Roxborough Road area Residents Your questions, input and feedback is requested regarding a proposed Official Plan Amendment for 66 Roxborough Road. The Town Council will hold an electronic Public Meeting on Tuesday, October 13th, 2020 at 1:00 PM to consider a proposed Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment for this address.
September 18, 2020 What’s next for the Mulock Property? On September 29th, there is a Special Committee of the Whole meeting where Council will be presented different Mulock Property design concepts. The next day, Council and Town Staff will walk the property to visualize how the concepts may come to life considering space, location, landscape and the various design elements.
September 11, 2020 Riverwalk Commons is closed for the season. As per our Town Staff, mechanical issues at the water feature facility will require considerable time to fully diagnose and repair. Traditionally open until Thanksgiving, the water feature is now closed for the remainder of the season. Staff needs enough time to fix the issues and ensure that repairs do not interfere with our outdoor ice rink season. The repairs needed are underground at the facility and will require some excavation. The good news is that both Frank Stronach and Rogers Spray Pads will continue to operate until the end of September. 
September 2, 2020 Our virtual Town Council was held on Monday and here are some highlights which may be of interest to you. You can read all the details here: https://bit.ly/3jItnUV Council will increase parking in the Downtown area by endorsing short-term and long-term solutions. Council continues to pursue a GO Train Station on Mulock Drive. Land uses, street networks, densities all need public input during future engagement sessions.
August 27, 2020 In case you missed it, the Magna Fitness Centre reopened on Wednesday, August 26th! After the Fitness Centre has reopened successfully, the focus will be on group fitness classes, followed by the pool, then the track.
August 27, 2020 A reminder that the next regular Council Meeting is on Monday, August 31, 2020 at 1:00 PM and will be streamed live from the Municipal Offices. You can watch the meeting live here: https://bit.ly/31Z6chM. The Agenda for every meeting is also available on that same page. If you want to get involved, click here: https://bit.ly/3genyfyAugust 24, 2020 A reminder that the Meeting of the Committee of the Whole is being streamed live today, August 24, starting at 1:00 PM directly from the Municipal Offices. You can watch the meeting live here: https://bit.ly/31Z6chM. The Agenda for every meeting is also available on that same page. If you want to get involved, click here: https://bit.ly/3genyfy The Town of Newmarket Council establishes Committees and Boards to be responsible for and make recommendations to Council regarding various matters. The Town encourages citizen engagement as you will play an important role in assisting to shape our community.
August 19, 2020 As most of us all know, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all Council, Committee of the Whole, Board and Advisory Committee regular meeting schedules are being held electronically. The Meeting of the Committee of the Whole is being streamed live August 24, 2020 starting at 1:00 PM directly from the Municipal Offices. The next regular Council Meeting will be next Monday, August 31, 2020 at 7:00 PM streamed live from the Municipal Offices. You can watch the meeting live here. The Agenda for every meeting is also available on that page. You can watch the meeting live here: https://bit.ly/31Z6chM. The Agenda for every meeting is also available on that same page. If you want to get involved, click here: https://bit.ly/3genyfy
August 12, 2020 Proposed Official Plan and Zoning By-Law Amendment As your Ward 2 Councillor, I need to and want to inform you that the Town of Newmarket has received an application to develop the property at 849 Gorham Street. The developer shows 20 Townhomes and 2 single homes proposed for the property. As a Ward 2 resident and having lived in the area for many years, I believe this potential development may be of interest to you and your family as I know it is for mine. Click this link to see the plan and Notice of Electronic Public Meeting taking place on August 31st. It is important to remember that this is the start of the process for this development. This electronic meeting is only to hear concerns from residents about the proposal. Following that meeting, residents can still submit any written concerns by email, mail a letter to the Town Council through Canada Post or drop one off at the Town mailbox in front of Town Hall at 395 Mulock Drive. Once Council and Staff have received input from residents, a report from Staff will indicate the next steps to be taken. Council will meet publicly and make decisions to either grant or deny the Official Plan Amendment and Zoning changes required to accommodate the Plan. Council Members will also provide input on all aspects of the site plan before a final decision is provided to the developer. Residents will have opportunity to have your say about the site plan at a future public meeting. This may be done electronically or possibly in person, depending on where we are in the pandemic. If you would like to be updated on the process and progress of the Plan, I highly recommend you send an email to planning@newmarket.ca and ask to be updated on 849 Gorham Street. Click here to see the plan. 
August 6, 2020 Attention Home Owners, this may affect you…. New single-lot residential construction Interim Control By-law Exemption Applications will be accepted until Aug 24, 2020. Full details here: https://bit.ly/2XxKFeC At the most recent Council Meeting, a cut-off date for those looking to apply for an exemption to the Interim Control By-law was established.
July 30, 2020 Newmarket Parks If you haven’t heard the good news yet, every Newmarket park and playground will have reopened by this coming Saturday, August 1st. There will be signage reminding parents and children of the COVID-19 pandemic safety protocols which remain in place; the need for social distancing, wearing a mask if you can’t keep your distance, as well as using hand sanitizer before and after enjoying the playground equipment.
July 28, 2020 Earlier this summer I joked about there being two seasons, winter and construction….. and there is just a whirlwind of projects that have started or re-started recently! And I know some people have complained about the early construction start times. It seems that the Ontario Government amended its own noise-law regulations back in April, which overrules our Noise By-law allowing for construction to start at 6 AM on weekdays and at 8 AM on weekends. So yes, this time I get to blame the Provincial Government too! This law is in place until October 2021.
July 28, 2020 As many of us know, the Town of Newmarket continues its cautious reopening procedures with the health and safety of our community and staff in mind. We are slowly opening playgrounds, then some select facilities will be opened now through the fall. The Magna Centre will be the first facility to reopen starting with a COVID-19 protocol modified Fitness Centre along with one ice pad. We will be opening a few smaller playgrounds spread across each Ward. Each week, we have activity ideas for kids and families. Get outside and see your friends & neighbours, following Public Health guidelines, of course. Staying indoors? We offer at-home family adventure night with easy, themed, DIY fun activities. Discover the fun at newmarket.ca/summerpopups. If you would like more information or if you have questions, please call Customer Service: Monday to Thursday, 8 AM to 5 PM and Friday 8 AM to 4:30 PM at 905-895-5193 or via email: info@newmarket.ca July 23, 2020 A few months back I wrote about the old Fire Hall on Main Street being available as part of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a 10-year lease agreement for the adaptive re-use of the Old Fire Hall property. Well, congratulations are in order to the Old Flame Brewing Co who will be a welcome addition to Newmarket’s Main Street when they open their doors early next year. Located at 140 Main St at the corner of Main and Millard Ave, the Old Fire Hall is a unique 5,000 square foot property in downtown Newmarket with significant potential to enhance the vibrancy of Main Street and act as a catalyst for further development north on Main Street towards Davis Drive.
July 20, 2020 As mentioned previously, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all Council, Committee of the Whole, Board and Advisory Committee regular meeting schedules are being held electronically. The Meeting of the Committee of the Whole is being streamed live today, July 20th starting at 1:00 PM directly from the Municipal Offices. The Committee of Adjustment is being held July 22, at 9:30 AM via ZOOM video call. The next regular Council Meeting will be next Monday, July 27 at 1:00 PM streamed live from the Municipal Offices.
July 15, 2020 The Newmarket Library starts its limited re-opening July 28! We are following the York Region Public Health’s recommendations in order to keep our users and staff safe. All visitors will be required to: – Wear a mask or a face covering. – Sanitize their hands prior to entry. – Follow physical distancing rules at all times. We must ask visitors to wait in line outside as a maximum number of visitors inside the library will be in effect at all times. Library services will initially be limited to: – Picking up and checking out items on hold. – Issuing and renewing library cards. – Using public computer workstations for one hour only. – Returning materials using the outside drop-off slots only. Sorry, but no browsing of shelves or use of study or lounge furniture will be permitted. Hours of operation will be: Tuesday to Thursday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
July 14, 2020 Two important things happen effective this Friday, July 17, as of 12:01 a.m., 1) most of Ontario, excluding Newmarket and all of the GTA enters Stage 3 and 2) we must start wearing a mask in enclosed public spaces throughout York region as well as the GTA. Other places where mask wearing is mandatory: https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/a-list-of-where-masks-are-becomi… In Stage 3, more restrictions will be loosened and many businesses and public spaces will reopen providing they follow public health advice and workplace safety guidance necessary to keep everyone safe. Newmarket is still in Stage 2, but you can read about Stage 3 here: https://files.ontario.ca/mof-framework-reopening-province-s…
July 13, 2020 We may not have Kids summer Camps this year, but the Town is providing a variety of free and low cost options for family fun! Pop Up Park Program – Kids on the Move – Age: 6-12. $5 This two-hour program features a variety of games, sports, arts and crafts and outdoor activities that are designed to allow participants to have fun while practicing physical distancing. Pre-registration required. When: Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from July 16 to August 28 from 10 a.m. to noon. Locations: – Mondays: Paul Semple Park, 145 Savage Rd – Wednesdays: Ken Sturgeon Park, 1035 Lockwood Circle – Thursdays: George Richardson Park, 395 Bayview Pkwy Cost: $5 per child per day. Register at www.play.newmarket.ca Pop Up Bicycle Obstacle Course – Wheeling Through Summer. Ages: 6 to 12 years old. Cost: FREE This drop-in cycling obstacle course is geared towards beginner and intermediate cyclists providing skills development and challenging riders to a variety of obstacles that will help improve balance, control, heads-up reaction riding and safety while having fun. The cycling course will take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. When: Tuesdays and Fridays beginning on Friday, July 17 until Friday, August 28 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. locations: – In July, on Tuesdays and Fridays at the Magna Centre, 800 Mulock Dr., south parking lot. – In August. on Tuesdays and Fridays at the Ray Twinney Recreation Complex, 100 Eagle St W., north west parking lot No registration is required. Sign-in is required upon arrival to allow for contact tracing. Family Scavenger Hunt – Seek and Search- FREE Families are encouraged to join the Town for this weekly fun scavenger hunt that will take place in each of the seven wards in Newmarket. Come together to explore their neighbourhood. Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. from July 15 to August 26. Ward locations: – July 15 – Magna Centre, 800 Mulock Dr., south parking lot (Ward 1) – July 22 – College Manor Park, College Manor Dr., (Ward 2) – July 29 – George Richardson Park, at Leslie St. (Ward 3) – August 5 – Marilyn Powell Park, 435 London Rd. (Ward 4) – August 12 – Fairy Lake Park, Water St. (Ward 5) – August 19 – Paul Semple Park, Savage Road (Ward 6) – August 26 – Environmental Park, Woodspring Ave. (Ward 7) Age: Suitable for families with kids of all ages. Cost: Free Register: No registration is required. Sign-in is required upon arrival to allow for contact tracing. DIY Thursday Adventure Day Each Thursday, the Town will be updating its website 
http://www.newmarket.ca/summerpopups with new adventures and activities that you can do at home. Each weekly activity will be a new experience and families are encouraged to share their experiences on social media by using the #TONSummperPopUps. When: Every Thursday from July 16 to August 27 Where: In the comfort of your own home Moonlight Movies – Drive In Style We will be scheduling three movies – one per week during the last two weeks of August and the first week of September. These movies will be held drive-in style and will be located at Ray Twinney Recreation Complex as we want to ensure we have appropriate space to accommodate. July 8, 2020 40 Days of Summer Camper Kits In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to help fill the void of full-day summer camps for the 2020 season, the Town of Newmarket is introducing a “40 Days of Summer Camper Kit” offering parents a ready-to-go activity kit to help keep kids busy this summer within the safety of their home. Each Camper kit includes 40 activities, supplies and directions to entertain and educate children’s curious minds with a range of self-directed and hands-on learning experiences. Geared towards children 4 to 12 years old, each kit provides 10 activities in each of these areas: Sports and Physical Activity Arts and Crafts Games and Adventures STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)
July 7, 2020 The Town has opened the Magna Centre at 800 Mulock Dr as a temporary cooling facility to assist those who need to escape the heat. The cooling area is in the East Lobby & will remain open as long as the York Region Heat Warning is in effect. Hours of operation are 11 am to 4:30 pm. The rest of the building will be closed to the public. Please follow public health guidelines by practicing proper hand hygiene and physical distancing when using the facility. Residents will be screened by staff when they arrive and asked to sanitize their hands and wear a mask / face covering before entering. Disposable masks will be provided for those who do not have their own. read all the details here: https://bit.ly/3e38UH2 June 17, 2020 The Town of Newmarket will be unveiling a Land Acknowledgement plaque in recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Day. This Land Acknowledgement and plaque will be unveiled to the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation. “This Indigenous Land Acknowledgement plaque may be the first to be permanently erected on a Town or City Hall in Ontario and we are proud as a Council to be taking this step” said Mayor Taylor. Due to COVID-19 emergency orders, this event taking place at the Municipal Offices, 395 Mulock Dr., will be streamed live this Friday, June 19 at 11 AM on the the Town’s Facebook account: www.Facebook.com/TownofNewmarket. The agenda includes: Smudging Ceremony by Hayley Williamson Drumming Ceremony by Hayley Williamson Remarks by Mayor John Taylor Remarks by Chief Donna BigCanoe, Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation Plaque Unveiling Closing remarks by Mayor John Taylor Physically distanced photo opportunity You can read more here: https://bit.ly/3fBVuTo 
June 15, 2020 If you are business owner you may be interested in the Newmarket Mentorship Access Program. This is a platform created by the Town of Newmarket allowing businesses to connect with potential mentors to receive support during COVID-19. Mentors are volunteers with extensive experience in business, whether as executives at international brands or seasoned business owners themselves. If you are a business seeking mentorship, please connect with the Newmarket Business Assistance Concierge here: https://bit.ly/30DeNYv. Those wishing to participate in the program as mentors should visit: https://app.tieit.io/content/page/496/newmarketmentors. 
June 11, 2020 Here’s a few highlights from the June 8th Special Council Meeting: – Newmarket-Tay Power is working with customers to help manage the financial impacts of COVID-19 including mitigating interest, applying deposits to help manage payments and making payment arrangements to help customers get through these unprecedented times. – Since 2018, the Town has worked with Newmarket Hydro Holdings to launch Envi, a community-owned ultra-high speed broadband network delivering service to municipalities, hospitals and the business sector in Newmarket and they now have over 100 customers in the community. – The town is helping restaurants respond to COVID-19 challenges by: waiving patio licensing fees for 2020 offering more flexibility in hours of operation and the encroachment on town lands set up and tear down of pedestrian zones that directly involve the use of Town property be funded by the Town for the 2020 season – The Main St. parking restrictions of a 30-minute maximum parking limit to accommodate curbside pickup and delivery has been extended to September 21. See full details here: June 10, 2020 Curbside pick-up at the Library is worth the wait! If you have been contacted regarding an item available for you, you can pick it up any Wednesday or Saturday, including today June 10, from 9:30 to 5. The following are the steps required to take advantage of the service: Go to www.newmarketpl.ca, select an item from the library’s catalogue and place it on hold. . If you need assistance related to curbside pickup, or don’t have specific items in mind, contact the library and leave a message at 905-953-5110, text 905-769-0433 or e-mail npl@newmarketpl.ca. On pickup service days staff will be at the library to answer calls in person. After placing a hold, you will receive an email or phone call letting you know that your items are ready for pickup. Visit the library on curbside pickup service days, line up where indicated to maintain social distancing of 2 metres, and wait to be called to the door. When it’s your turn, present your library card and staff will retrieve your items and leave them for you at a safe distance. It’s important to remember that curbside pickup service is only for items already placed on hold. To avoid disappointment, the library is asking people not line up and request items at the door. Due to safety concerns, only a small number of staff will be present and they will only have time to process on hold items.
June 8, 2020 As part of the Town’s Active Transportation Plan, new bicycle lanes will be constructed this summer/fall. For 2020 in Ward 2, bicycle lanes will be installed on Alexander Road, north of Srigley St and elsewhere in Town, on London Rd, and on Bonshaw Avenue, west of Woodspring Ave. Normally, the line painting for bicycle lanes would be completed during summer months but, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the scheduling could be delayed into the fall. Back on Feb 27th, the Town held a Public Information Centre highlighting the 2020 plans and affected residents received a direct-mail invitation to attend. All the picture boards that were presented that day can be found here. There are many benefits to bike lanes including reducing vehicle speeds, promoting active transportation, greenhouse gas reduction and better cycling connectivity throughout the Town which is a Council and community priority. The Town’s Parking By-Law still allows delivery vehicles, taxis and other vehicles to stop momentarily in the bike lanes to access your home for pick-ups and drop-offs. Additional parking has been identified in your neighbourhood, within 100 metres of the road, see the map below, or click here to see an expandable .pdf document.
June 4, 2020 The Construction Crews are back at it and hard at work at the 2 construction sites in Ward 2. The little boy in me could watch for hours!! This commercial development at the corner of Harry Walker and Davis Dr is in full swing again. Rumor has it there may be some personal services like a salon, pet care, fitness, and maybe even some health care specialists. The second site, the one behind No Frills is all closed in with crews finishing inside and out. June 4, 2020 Great news: Newmarket is gradually re-opening more outdoor recreational amenities to the public. By June 5, the Town will add all sports fields and ball diamonds to its list of open outdoor recreation amenities which currently includes: All trails and open spaces Boardwalk along the Tom Taylor Trail (one-way traffic only) All tennis courts All pickleball courts Newmarket Dog Park Sports Fields (open by June 5) Artificial Turf Field at Dr. Denison Secondary School will remain closed (York Region District School Board) Ball Diamonds (open by June 5) Whipper Watson Diamond and Fairgrounds Diamond will remain closed as these two diamonds are normally reserved for permit holders only. The Town is not issuing any permits at this time. Please note that open amenities are for recreational use only. The Town is currently not issuing any permits to use these amenities. Organized sports, league play or any type of game play is not allowed. Please remember to stay at least 6ft / 2m away from people outside of your immediate household and to follow COVID-19 orders around social gatherings of no more than 5 people. Please see all the details here. May 26, 2020 The Town released a special Mulock Farm video showcasing the wide range of ideas and inspiration we received from the community during the extensive public consultation. Over 3,000 residents shared their input and vision for the Mulock Property and if you watch the video, you’l get a little taste of what’s to come. Click here to watch the video. Or visit www.heynewmarket.ca/mulock-property to read the complete Engagement report & stay in-the-know. 
May 25, 2020 Attention College Manor & Bogart Pond area residents. Be prepared for Forcemain Twinning Bypass Work & Pumping Station Shutdowns. The first shutdown is planned for 8 hours from Wed., May 27 starting at 11 PM to 7 AM the following morning. Two more shutdowns will be scheduled at a later date. During the overnight shutdown, wastewater will be loaded from Bogart PS and hauled to an unloading station. A temporary pipe will be routed through College Manor Park, see map. Pumps would move wastewater south through College Manor Park via the temporary pipe into tanker trucks. Wastewater will be loaded into tanker trucks on the south frontage of College Manor Park using a temporary trailer‐mounted overhead loading arm. The park will be restored to pre‐existing condition when the shutdowns are completed. You can read the complete information here. YORK-#10839517-v3-FAQs_for_the_Town_of_Newmarket May 14, 2020 A reminder that a Special Council Meeting will be streamed live online at newmarket.ca/meetings starting on Tuesday, May 19 at 2 PM. Individuals who wish to make a live deputation, through video conferencing or phone call, in relation to an item on the agenda will need to notify clerks@newmarket.ca by 12 p.m. tomorrow, Friday, May 15. Individuals who wish to submit comments in relation to an item listed on the agenda may submit their feedback in writing to clerks@newmarket.ca. All comments must be received no later than 2 hours prior to the start of the meeting. All written comments will be read aloud by the Mayor during the meeting and will form part of the public record. May 11, 2020 Over the weekend, the Town of Newmarket amended the parking restrictions on Main Street by imposing a thirty (30) minute maximum parking limit to facilitate curbside pickup or delivery. The 30 minute maximum parking restriction applies to the east and west side of Main Street from Water Street to Davis Drive, where there was previously a two hour limit. Ordering online and requesting curb pickup may help some great local merchants weather this Covid storm a bit better. As COVID-19 restrictions are loosened, retail stores with a street entrance can begin to provide curbside pickup and delivery starting today, May 11. “We’re fortunate to have such great shops and restaurants right here on our Historic Main Street,” says Mayor Taylor. “But today, they operate in a unique environment. The 30 minute parking limit will support their curbside business opportunity and help our downtown through a very difficult time. We’ll continue to do all we can to make it easier for our community to safely support its local businesses.”
May 8, 2020 As the Municipal Offices are closed, a Special Council Meeting on Tuesday, May 19 at 2 PM will be streamed online at newmarket.ca/meetings. The agenda will appear online today. Individuals who wish to make a live deputation, through video conferencing or phone call, in relation to an item on the agenda will need to notify clerks@newmarket.ca by 12 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2020. Individuals who wish to submit comments in relation to an item listed on the agenda, may submit their feedback in writing to clerks@newmarket.ca. All comments must be received no later than 2 hours prior to the start of the meeting. All written comments will be read aloud by the Mayor during the meeting, and will form part of the public record. May 7, 2020 The latest CANCELLATION updates from the Town regarding Spring & Summer activities. The state of emergency has been extended by the Province of Ontario and the Town of Newmarket continues to focus on essential work in an effort to protect the health and safety of our staff and community. Spring: All facilities and buildings in the Town of Newmarket remain closed until further notice, and all spring recreation and culture programs remain cancelled. Summer Camps & Programs The Town will make a final decision on operating its Camps and Summer Programs prior to May 20. If Summer Programs are operational, registration will start on May 20 for residents and May 27 for non-residents. Summer Guide information is available online at newmarket.ca/activityguide
May 4, 2020 Attention Devanjan Circle, College Manor area Residents. We wanted to provide notice of some urgent storm water pond restoration work staring today. It is deemed essential work and appropriate work procedures will be adhered to respecting COVID-19 policies. Water has been accumulating to higher levels than normal in the Pond and we need to complete repairs to the outlet structure to ensure that the pond can once again drain as required. The scope of the works includes, but is not limited to: • Draining of the pond • Removal of sediment and debris from the outlet structure • Repairs to the outlet structure
April 29, 2020Here are a few things from Special Town Council Meeting held on April 27. You can read the details here. ~ Newmarket Council approved a Financial Relief Program to assist residents and businesses during the COVID-19. All about payments, penalties and interest charges. ~ The Emergency Measures By-law was enacted allowing By-law Officers to enforce physical distancing, allow essential business to operate and to issue fines and collect penalties. Officers will always take an education-first approach. ~ Newmarket has been extremely responsive to the changing COVID-19 landscape. You can always find the latest updates and important links here.
April 28, 2020 Due to Covid-19 issues, Public Works is currently focused on servicing only specific areas. The Town sweeper has completed the bike lanes as this is a priority. The sweeper will next work on hot spots, low lying areas and streets that have historically seen more debris and are prone to ponding & flooding issues. It is important to know that the Town does not apply sand during its winter operations. This ensures a safer and cleaner roadway, particularly compared to other municipalities. Public Works strives to ensure streets remain safe and in the best condition possible, given the pandemic and limited resources. Thank you to everyone for your patience & understanding during these unprecedented times. 
April 27, 2020 Newmarket Bylaws News & Other Things Dog off-leash bylaw is being enforced because an off-leash dog may be a risk to physical distancing as it brings people together. When a dog is off leash, it may approach another dog on-leash or even other people out for walks. The owner is then forced to approach the other person to retrieve their dog, causing an interaction with the other person/dog and inability to maintain physical distancing of at least 6 feet apart, creating weariness for contact.
April 21, 2020 The Town of Newmarket along with the Newmarket Chamber of Commerce are collaborating to help local business respond to COVID-19. The Newmarket Business Assistance Concierge (BAC) program is a virtual business support service to provide immediate and long-term support for the local business community and the economy. Led by the Town’s Economic Development department, the team will use their collective knowledge to support local businesses and share their stories with Newmarket Council and the Chamber of Commerce to continue to shape the Economic Resiliency Action Plan. Businesses who participate in the program will continue to be actively supported even after physical distancing measures are loosened.
April 17, 2020 Re-opening of York Regional Forest Walking in the York Region Forest tracts is one of my absolute favourite things to do. The fresh air, the quiet, the change of scenery, beauty of the different trees and exercise it provides are my main reasons for loving it. And I miss it. The pictures here were taken just a couple of days before the Region closed the Forests to the public for our own safety. This tract is the Davis Drive tract. Just a few kilometres outside Newmarket are other tracts including the North tract with over 700 acres to enjoy and Bender and Graves tract offering over 200 acres of nature. The Regional Municipality of York’s primary concern is for safety of visitors. If we all follow the rules of social distancing just like we do when we go to the grocery store or for a walk near our homes, the Forest tracts should remain open for us all to enjoy. The Regional Municipality of York has re-opened the York Regional Forests and has issued these statements. • In our continued response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number one priority for The Regional Municipality of York continues to be the health and well-being of our residents, businesses and staff. • Our residents are responding well to messages from York Region Public Health on the importance of physical distancing and the role it plays in reducing the transmission of COVID-19 across our communities.• With our collective efforts to help flatten the curve working, York Region is in the process of re-opening public access to the York Regional Forest by this weekend, with stricter guidelines for all users. • With measures that include maintaining physical distancing in both the forest and within parking facilities, and ensuring dogs are leashed at all times, the Regional Forest will re-open for residents to enjoy the much-needed benefits our public tracts provide.
April 17, 2020 A reminder for those of you who are interested, our next Newmarket Town Council Meeting is being streamed live online here as the Municipal Offices is closed to the public. The agenda for this meeting will be available online April 24. Individuals who wish to submit comments in relation to an item listed on the agenda, may submit their feedback in writing to clerks@newmarket.ca. All comments must be received no later than 2 hours prior to the start of the meeting. All written comments will be read aloud by the Mayor during the meeting, and will form part of the public record. April 13, 2020 Is yard waste pick-up still happening? What’s the garbage bag limit during COVID19? Can I still dispose large items? How do I replace a broken blue/green bin? All of your Newmarket Waste and Recycle questions are answered on our website! Check the FAQ section. 
April 6, 2020 
Newmarket will start to issue fines for social gatherings during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Province of Ontario granted Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Officers the ability to issue fines under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act in an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19. The Town of Newmarket will issue fines to individuals who fail to comply with the following emergency orders: * Social gatherings of more than five (5) people * Trespassing outdoor recreational areas that are closed to the public, like playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts, baseball diamonds, sport fields and baseball diamonds etc. * Closure of non-essential businesses * Price gouging on necessary goods such as disinfectant products. Newmarket’s Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Officers will be deployed to ensure the community complies with these emergency orders. Failure to comply with an Emergency Order carries a starting fine of $750 or could carry punishment of up to one-year imprisonment or a fine of up to $100,000 for an individual.
April 4, 2020 A message from Central York Professional Firefighters Association In the event you need to call 9-1-1 for Emergency Services (in particular, a Medical Emergency) PLEASE follow these guidelines: -Do not approach Emergency Services until they have their PPE donned and can assess the scene and Patients. (For the large part, let us come to you) -If able, please meet us at the front door or outside -We ask family/ bystanders to keep a minimum of 2M between both us and our patient (unless otherwise directed) -If you have been directed to wear a mask, please ensure it covers your nose and mouth and is worn continuously. Thank you for your continued support and cooperation. We will get through this together. Isolate, sanitize & stay positive. 
In light of our COVID-19 pandemic, the Town of Newmarket has cancelled all Recreation and Culture programs, drop-in programs, rentals and events until further notice. Town Staff are working to provide automatic credits to all Spring 2020 Recreation & Culture registrants. Questions can be directed to registration@newmarket.caFitness Centre Membership All Fitness Centre Memberships were placed on hold as of March 13, 2020. Membership fees are not being charged for the duration of the closure of the Magna Centre. Email questions about your membership to fitness@newmarket.ca
Stay home and stay safe. March 29, 2020 Newmarket essential services for residents during COVID-19 to ensure our staff and residents remain safe and our critical services and infrastructure are maintained. In an effort to maintain social distancing, staff members will continue to provide services online and by telephone, while working from home. Staff that work out of facilities and in the public will work in smaller teams and on shifts.
March 27, 2020 Pictured here are Mayor John Taylor, Councillors Jane Twinney, Trevor Morrison, Kelly Broome and myself who helped prepare the Community Meal this evening. Inn from the Cold Meals are still being served, but are take out only. 
March 24, 2020 Waste collection & recycling information The Town is taking a more lenient approach to garbage bag limits now collecting up to five bags of garbage per household on the regularly scheduled collection day. However the Town is asking for all residents’ cooperation in sticking to the existing 3 bag limit where possible and not produce additional and unnecessary waste. Continue using your green bin & recycling bin as always. Reminders: ~ Medical masks and gloves belong in the garbage. DO NOT place these items in the recycling bin. ~ Disinfectant wipes and baby wipes belong in the garbage. ~ Paper towels belong in the green bin. DO NOT flush the above items in the toilet as this will cause sewer back-ups. Sewer blockages are the responsibility of the homeowner. (and no one wants a sewer blockage) ~ Please hold off on disposing large items until regular garbage collection resumes. If you need to, residents can take items to a York Region Waste Depot (fees apply) https://bit.ly/39eggVS or purchase a large item tag by calling the Town at 905-895-5193. A large item tag will be sent to residents through the mail. ~ Help protect our GFL collection crews by ensuring your garbage bags are tied properly and that no loose material is placed into garbage containers. Residents who aren’t sure what goes where, please visit newmarket.ca/wasteandrecycling; https://bit.ly/39in70v
March 24, 2020 COVID 19 – Information Resources for you and to share. The Town of Newmarket’s website has a dedicated web page where we continue to add the most recent information on https://www.newmarket.ca/covid19 This page includes the following helpful information: COVID-19 self assessment https://covid-19.ontario.ca/self-assessment/#q0
March 20, 2020 Newmarket closes all playgrounds. In an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19, all playgrounds and outdoor parks with fitness equipment within the Town of Newmarket will be closed until further notice. Signage indicating this closure will be posted at all playgrounds and parks. The public is reminded to please refrain from using playground and/or fitness equipment to help break the chain of transmission of COVID-19. Larger playgrounds will be fenced off from the public.
March 17, 2020 Newmarket Council to hold Emergency Council meeting Council will meet Wed. March 18 for a Special Meeting to discuss property tax deferral (2 PM) and matters related to the changing COVID-19 landscape, (3 PM). The draft agenda for this meeting is available at newmarket.ca/meetings. As the Municipal Offices are now closed to the public, residents may watch the meeting live online at newmarket.ca/meetings. The video link is available 15 minutes before the meeting start time. Residents who wish to submit comments, which will form part of the public record, may write to the Town Clerk at clerks@newmarket.ca
March 16, 2020 Mackenzie Health and Southlake Regional Health Centre have both opened its own COVID-19 assessment centre. Markham-Stouffville Hospital will open on Wednesday. The centres are located in or adjacent to each of the respective hospitals. Each York Region hospital will manage their assessment centre based on their operational capacity. Ensure to check your local hospital’s website for specific hours of operation and procedures: • Mackenzie Health: https://www.mackenziehealth.ca/…/get-the-latest-information… • Markham-Stouffville Hospital: https://www.msh.on.ca/about-us/covid-19-information-page • Southlake Regional Health Centre: https://southlake.ca/news/coronavirus-2019-ncov/ Not all people who attend a COVID-19 assessment centre will be tested for COVID-19. For more information about COVID-19 visit York.ca/covid19 March 16, 2020 Following the closure of Newmarket Recreation and Culture facilities, the Town is closing its Municipal Offices, 395 Mulock Dr, Robert N. Shelton Operations Centre, 1275 Maple Hill Court and all Central York Fire Service Offices to the public as of 5 pm Monday, March 16. This closure will be in effect until further notice. The Town will continue, where possible, to provide services to residents by email info@newmarket.ca or by phone 905-895-5193. These measures have been taken in support of the Province of Ontario’s direction to facilitate social distancing to protect staff and residents from the spread of COVID-19. Read the full press release here: March 13, 2020 COVID-19 – facility closures & program cancellations With an abundance of caution, the Town of Newmarket is closing all recreation and culture facilities and cancelling its programs, drop-in activities and March Break camps effective midnight, Friday, March 13 until Sunday, April 5. Facilities and programming will resume on Monday, April 6, pending further developments. Cancelled Recreation & Culture facilities & programs: Ray Twinney Recreation Complex, 100 Eagle St. West Magna Centre, 800 Mulock Drive NewRoads Performing Arts Centre / Newmarket Theatre, 505 Pickering Crescent Newmarket Seniors’ Meeting Place, 474 Davis Dr Newmarket Youth Centre & Sk8 Park, 56 Charles St) Hollingsworth Arena, 35 Patterson St Old Town Hall, 460 Botsford St Elman W. Campbell Museum, 134 Main St South Newmarket’s Community Centre & Lions Hall, 200 Doug Duncan Drive Newmarket Public Library, 438 Park Ave Those enrolled in the March Break camps and registered programs will receive a credit. This cancellation also impacts outside organizations with bookings at Town facilities. The Town is in the process of notifying organizations directly. Read the full press release here: February 7, 2020 On Friday, Jill Dunlop Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues announced an investment of $133,000 for safety improvements at the supportive housing service on Gorham St. in Newmarket. Joining Minister Dunlop was local MPP and Deputy Minister Christine Elliott along with Michael Braithwaite of Blue Door. “Helping our community partners maintain and upgrade their buildings just makes sense. We want to make sure their buildings are safe for years to come,” said Elliott. The funding totalling $334,000 will be distributed between Yellow Brick House, Blue Door and Community Living. Blue Door is located in Ward 2, Newmarket. 
February 6, 2020 All the tables were filled at the Old Town Hall last evening as residents came to work through a visioning exercise for the Mulock Estate. The evening was lead by the consultants hired to bring the property to life. The Mayor and Council came but the stars of the evening were the residents who showed up and participated in the process as the open house was designed to hear from those of us who will use and enjoy the old Mulock “Farm” now and for the generations to follow. 
January 29, 2020 Mulock Estate Property I am working with other Town Representatives along with our consultants on a workshop/workforce to educate and engage with the community on this landmark property. Our objectives are to collect feedback on the “Community” vision for the site, to better understand any concerns/considerations and continue to generate excitement and community support. There are a number of community engagement opportunities in the near future including a Community Open House Workshop on February 5th from 6:30 to 7 pm followed by a facilitated workshop until 9 pm at the Old Town Hall, 460 Botsford Street. Please join us on February 5th, or at other opportunities you can read about here: 
January 27, 2020 The Intelligent Community Forum, see ICF below, has ranked Newmarket as a 2020 “Top21 Intelligent Community”. This is a world wide annual competition and we have now submitted our application for the Top7, the next round of this process, which then leads to the ICF Intelligent Community of the Year announcement in June. The ICF released another list; the Top30 Sustainable Communities and summarized Newmarket’s strengths in this area, and the reason for being included on this latest list. Sustainability is considered a success factor because it offers multiple benefits to the economic, social and cultural life of communities. Quality of life in a community is tied to the environment within the community, from air quality to water pollution. ICF…….The Intelligent Community Forum is a global network and “think tank”. It connects hundreds of cities and regions on five continents for collaboration on economic development and expertise that drives progress. Through this network, ICF researches how Intelligent Communities use information and communications technology to build inclusive prosperity, solve social problems and enrich their quality of life in our connected century. You can read the complete list here: http://bit.ly/38G5tDV 
January 22, 2020 Animal Control & Licensing Nnewmarket is exploring changes to its animal control by-law and the introduction of licensing pet stores. The Town wants to hear from residents and stakeholders in an open forum on Thursday, January 23 from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at the Municipal Offices, 395 Mulock Drive in the Council Chambers. On January 1, the Provincial Animal Welfare services (PAWS) Act came into force, creating the first fully provincial government-based animal welfare enforcement system in Canada. The introduction of pet store licensing would establish regulations surrounding the sale of pets, the ethical sourcing of pets for sale and how permitted retailers can treat the animals they sell. Please get involved and have your say at a Public Information Centre drop-in event. Speak with staff and community partners about our current animal services program as well as proposed changes. Following the event, an online survey will be available here. 
January 17, 2020 I would like to share with everyone a highlight of how the Town has an ongoing desire to be innovative as well as look for opportunities at environmental impacts and cost savings. The Town ran a pilot program using a treated salt compound as the primary de-icing material for winter maintenance in the 2017/18 winter season using Thawrox versus a salt/salt mixture. As a result of the testing done by Public Works Services…. • Less fuel used for winter maintenance equipment • Less time was needed for street sweepers to clean the streets in the spring and for catch basin cleaning, due to less sand on the road • Smaller amounts of harmful storm water run-off going into our storm water ponds, wetlands, lakes and streams, which in turn promotes fish reproduction and the health of benthic invertebrate populations (bugs in the water). • Overall cost savings to the Town and taxpayers, and • The Town of Newmarket was awarded a Healthy Water Award at the 2019 Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Awards. You can read the full report here: Public Works Report. 
January 16, 2020 Starting January 15, there is a new parking ticket resolution under the new Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS) Newmarket residents and visitors have a new way to pay for or to dispute parking tickets, which replaces the current provincial court dispute system. AMPS is more cost effective allowing for the Town to resolve parking ticket escalations much faster and rewards motorists who pay early. “AMPS allows us to do more with less, while enforcing our roadways to protect our community” says Newmarket Mayor John Taylor. The new parking enforcement system provides residents with an “early payment” option which offers a 25 per cent discount for paying within 15 days. After an individual receives a ticket, they have 15 days to dispute their ticket. Individuals can go online to the self-serve parking portal to pay or request to dispute their ticket. Motorists may also pay or request to dispute at a Town Customer Service desk. For more info, please visit here. 
January 10, 2020 Attention Entrepreneurs! The Town of Newmarket has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the adaptive re-use of the Old Fire Hall property, 140 Main Street, at Millard Avenue. The Town hopes to secure a long-term lease for the property for commercial use that is consistent with the Town’s vision and plans for the continued development of Main Street and downtown Newmarket. “The Old Fire Hall presents a very unique opportunity to continue to build on the momentum of our award-winning Main Street,” says Newmarket Mayor John Taylor. The Old Fire Hall is a unique 5,000 sq ft property in downtown with significant potential to enhance the vibrancy of Main Street! Proposals will be accepted until February 12 at newmarket.bidsandtenders.ca For more information, please contact the Town of Newmarket’s procurement department at 905-895-5193. More details: http://bit.ly/2R7WeFz 
January 9, 2020 Flags are flying at half-mast at all Town of Newmarket facilities in honour and in memory of the 63 Canadians and all others whose lives were tragically cut short when Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 crashed en route from Tehran, Iran to Kyiv, Ukraine. “On behalf of the Town of Newmarket, I offer my deepest condolences to those who have lost family, friends, and loved ones in this tragedy” says Mayor John Taylor. I want our Iranian community to know that your Town and your friends are standing beside you in sympathy. The Iranian community must feel a loss and an impact that many of us can only imagine. As the days and weeks unfold, please know that your neighbours, your colleagues and your friends are all thinking about you and are ready to support you.” Flags will fly at half-mast until further notice. Photo by Debora Kelly/NewmarketToday 
December 17, 2019 Newmarket is one of 39 municipalities that received a grant from the Ontario Audit & Accountability Fund to conduct a review of our Administrative and Service Delivery. As a result, Newmarket launched its REV it up (REVenue, Efficiencies & Value Add) campaign. The goal was to find ways to improve operational efficiencies and effectiveness thereby improving services to families and businesses while enabling the Town to better support its community and staff members. This three-month campaign helped the Town realize 150+ improvement opportunities, approximately $1.9 to $2.6 million in direct cost savings over seven years and identified initiatives that will save money and found $300,000 to $350,000 in new revenues without any job loss or reduction of service levels for our residents. We are always looking for ways to make the Town of Newmarket even better and the findings of this campaign demonstrate the Town’s commitment to long-term sustainability and a responsible use of taxpayer dollars. You can read more here. 
December 14, 2019 About two weeks ago, I posted that the Town of Newmarket is moving to regulate the booming in town short-term rental industry, the Airbnb-type lodging. On December 10th at the Town Office, about 2 dozen local homeowners took part in a public meeting to discuss the subject and learn about the Town’s intention of creating policies and regulations to deal with the challenges of this new industry. Newmarket Today has a good article about the meeting which you can read here. Residents can complete an online survey up to Jan 3, 2020, here. December 12, 2019 Crisis Counselling As many of you know, I sit on the Newmarket Public Library Board and the Library has partnered with York Support Services Network to offer residents an opportunity to speak with a professional crisis worker on two Wednesdays each month from 1 to 4 p.m. Residents experiencing any type of mental health issue can “walk-in” to the Library and have a private conversation with a crisis worker on these dates Dec. 18, and Jan. 8, at the Newmarket Public Library, 438 Park Ave. If you have a friend or familiy member who might benefit from this service, please mention it to them. For more info about York Support Services Network, please click here. December 5, 2019 We’re proud to be a recipient of a grant from the Low Carbon Economy Fund through Environment and Climate Change. In total, the Town will receive up to $589,565 that will be used to fund energy savings and greenhouse gas reduction-centered projects that will take place between 2019 to 2024. Read more here. December 4, 2019 The Town of Newmarket Council has approved the 2020 budget. I understand that any tax increase is not appreciated, but we anticipate a small tax increase of about 2.39%. (subject to tax shifting & finalized tax rates from York Region & the School Board). Based on a property assessment of $618,750, residents will see an increase of $59.74 on their tax bill, water/wastewater rate increase of $59.72 and a stormwater rate increase of $4.12. The total approved 2020 is $172.4 million, $134.6 million Operating Budget and $37.8 million Capital Budget. You can read more details here. December 2, 2019 Short Term Rental – Airbnb, VRBO, etc. Are you a Newmarket homeowner who rents some or all of your home for short-term stays? Newmarket is exploring the regulation of “short-term rental accommodations” and wants to hear from all residents! Short-Term Rental Accommodations refer to people renting some/all of their residence for less than 30 days. Short-Term Rentals are a popular, growing trend across the world and in Newmarket there are various sites, such as Airbnb, VRBO, HomeAway and Booking.com that residents can use to list their rental accommodations. Learn about best practices, what’s working in other municipalities and how zoning impacts rental housing stock. Join us on Tuesday, Dec 10, 6:30 to 9 p.m at the Municipal Offices, 395 Mulock. A formal presentation begins at 7 p.m . Please drop in to have your say and to find out more. Learn more here November 28, 2019 Starting in January 2020, Central York Fire Services is implementing a cost-recovery program when responding to vehicle collisions in the Towns of Newmarket and Aurora. It is a two-year pilot program to recover costs associated with responding to collisions on municipal roadways in both Towns. This affects drivers who are deemed at-fault and invoices will be sent directly to the insurance company of the at-fault driver. Fees are typically paid by the insurer. Currently, Central York Fire Services is the only fire service in York Region that does not charge a service fee for attending motor vehicle collisions on municipal roadways. You can read the full media release here. 
November 19, 2019 The Town held a Drop-in session at the Magna Centre to illustrate the new Denison Daycare located on the Stickwood-Walker Farm, just east of the Magna Centre. The daycare will feature outdoor and farm themed care and learning for little ones up to age 5. The Walker sisters were in attendance to view the plans for their old home. Construction changes will begin with the farmhouse before new buildings construction begins in the spring. This will be an incredible opportunity for Newmarket, the children attending and their parents. Additional information can be found here. 
November 22, 2019 Mayor John Taylor hosted a “Town Hall” at th old Town Hall last night and provided an overview of initiatives, Council priorities, the budget and a view ahead. The Mayor then answered questions from the floor as well as those sent-in online and via Facebook. Displays of a few Town facts and initiatives were on display both before and after the formal part of the meeting. 
November 7, 2019 Safe Drinking Water There have been reports in the news recently regarding levels of lead found in municipal water systems. The Town would like to remind residents that Newmarket does NOT have any lead pipes in the Town’s water distribution system and that Newmarket is committed to providing high quality, safe drinking water to our residents. The Town regularly conducts water tests, including samples for lead, to ensure that we continue to provide safe, high-quality water to our residents. After completing rigorous rounds of multi-year residential lead testing, the Town of Newmarket consistently reported concentrations well below the standard in accordance with the Safe Drinking Water Act. In 2019, our samples for lead displayed concentrations of less than or equal to 0.0005mg/L, the lowest detectable limit, and well below Health Canada’s maximum acceptable concentration (0.005mg/L). In addition, when conducting repairs and replacements to the municipal water distribution system, there has been no records of lead pipe having been discovered within the Town’s infrastructure. Lead pipes on private property were banned for use in 1975. Residents who are concerned about lead pipes on their private property, can contact the Town of Newmarket by calling 905-895-5193. For more information on lead sample testing and requirements set out by the Province of Ontario and the Safe Drinking Water Act 2002, please visit the Town’s frequently asked questions webpage about lead in water. http://bit.ly/36FXqXu 
October 22, 2019 Main Street Clock Tower update. The investigation into the unauthorized demolition of 184/186 Main Street, part of the Main Street Clock Inc. development continues. The Town’s “Stop Work” Orders remain in place on two of the buildings (184/186 and 188/190/192), as the Town continues its investigation. The Chief Building Official has authorized bracing work to proceed in order to maintain safety and preserve the heritage aspects of the middle building (188/190/192). The Town will have a significant presence throughout this work. The Town is strongly committed to protecting the heritage of the Downtown Area and more information will be provided to the community once the investigation is complete. For more information, visit www.newmarket.ca/clocktower 
October 2 BUDGET 2020! As part of the Town of Newmarket’s 2020 Budget process, residents are invited to share feedback by participating in the Town’s 2020 Budget Survey. Visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3S5TTBD and rank each municipal service provided by the Town of Newmarket. You can also earn a chance to win a $100 credit towards a Recreation and Culture program. “Resident engagement and participation are crucial when building our budgets…” says Mayor John Taylor. It is a strategic priority to ensure that we provide long-term financial sustainability while balancing great services and low tax rates. “Your feedback will help us determine your priorities, so we can ensure we are investing your tax dollars in the municipal services that matter to you.” You can read more about the budget and process at: https://www.newmarket.ca/2020budget. Please share your thoughts and concerns, it’s your Town too! 
July 9 Over the next five months, vivaNext will be working on the parapet walls (the raised walls along the sidewalks) of the Keith Bridge on Davis Drive. This work will involve the repair of the walls along the north and south sides of the bridge and may result in some delays along Davis Drive. Davis Drive will remain open, but the westbound curb lane on the Keith Bridge will remain closed for the duration of this project. The Town identified some cracking on the walls and the reconstruction work will be completed under the builder’s warranty.
May 24 Proposed development at Roxborough & Queen Streets Many thanks to the approximately 50 residents who attended a developer’s presentation for the corner of Roxborough and Queen Streets. The idea that 9 town homes should be built in a single family home spot was met with loud opposition. Residents clearly expressed their concern for traffic, neighbourhood fit, flooding and much more. As I explained as the meeting started, this is the start of a process. A complete application must submitted to the Town, it must fit with many regulations including the new bylaw currently being developed by staff for council’s approval. Residents will have a number of opportunities to voice their concerns. As your Councillor I will be listening, expressing those concerns and asking Council to listen as decisions need to be made. I will also keep residents informed and involved. Please contact here or email through my Town email at vwoodhouse@newmarket.ca. 
May 2 I am in Pembroke, Ontario for the Ontario Small Urban Municipalities Conference, the small urban municipal voice of the Province. Delegates from Ontario Towns are discussing their latest initiatives; growing challenges; innovative solutions and ongoing changing landscapes of small, Urban Ontario. Pictured is Bob Kwapis asking a question of the Guest speaker. In case you are wondering, Pembroke is on the Ottawa River about 90 minutes north west of Ottawa and is another Town experiencing spring flooding. 
March 30 The Newmarket Annual Community Open House is on Wednesday, April 3 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Municipal Offices, 395 Mulock Dr. What does Newmarket have planned for 2019? Learn about exciting projects and share your feedback on initiatives such as: Vision for Mulock property, job creation & economic development, development initiatives, Newmarket’s Energy Efficiency Retrofit Program and Smart water meter program. Residents can also meet Newmarket’s new Chief Administrative Officer, Jag Sharma. Light refreshments will be served. More info here. 
March 15 Newmarket announces new CAOJag Sharma has accepted the role as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the Town of Newmarket after a thorough recruitment process. Mr. Sharma has been with the City of Oshawa since 2011 and will start his new role with the Town on April 1. The CAO reports directly to Council and oversees all departments within the municipality. The CAO is responsible for delivering on both Council’s and the Town’s strategic plans, priorities and overall development goals. The CAO is also responsible for implementing policies, budgets and appropriations and is accountable for managing the effectiveness of the Town’s administration, including financial planning and management.
Your can meet and speak with Mr. Sharma at the Town’s upcoming annual Community Open House eventon April 3, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Municipal Offices (395 Mulock Drive).
February 1 Council meetings are open to the public and held at the Municipal Offices, in the Council Chambers. In addition, Council meetings are live streamed on the Agendas, Minutes and Meetings page. Meetings are held on Monday, unless otherwise indicated and begin at 7:00 PM. Special Council meetings may be called from time to time and will be published on the Agendas, Minutes and Meetings page. The remaining Council meeting dates for 2019 are: February 11, March 4, March 25, April 15, May 6, May 27, June 24, September 9, September 30, October 21, November 11 and December 2 For more information on other Town of Newmarket Meetings, please visit the Town of Newmarket Council Meetings page. January 29, 2019 In spite of a case for her broken ankle, Councillor Grace Simon was at Committee of the Whole this as afternoon. That’s commitment. 
January 28, 2019 There is a Public Information night scheduled for Wednesday, February 6 from 7 PM to 9 PM at the Town Office, 395 Mulock Dr regarding the Mulock GO Station Area Secondary Plan. The Mulock GO Station proposed by the provincial government is to be located at the intersection of the railway line and Mulock Drive and the Secondary Plan includes the lands that surround the site. You can find out more on the Town site by clicking this link. 
January 16, 2019 A recording of the January 15th, special Town Hall Cannabis meeting with all Members of Council that includes resident presentations is now available. The Meeting portion of the recording starts at about the 12 minute mark. A reminder that all public meetings of the Council are available via live streaming or you can watch a recording of it afterwards. It’s official, there will be no cannabis stores in Newmarket for the foreseeable future. Council ratified its decision to opt out of permitting retail outlets for recreational cannabis, voting 7-2 against the Staff recommendation of the opting-in of allowing cannabis stores in town. January 7, 2019 Members of the Newmarket Town Council meet regularly at council and committee meetings throughout the year, as well as at special council meetings as needed. There is a Town of Newmarket Committee of the Whole Meeting scheduled for January 14, 2019. Please click the link to review the agenda: Town of Newmarket_Agenda_Jan14_2019. Any questions or concerns, please get in touch. December 21, 2018 I visited Prince Charles Public School to present a cheque for $200 from the Town in support of and their Student breakfast program. I know young students learn better when they are not hungry. Thanks Staff for all your work! 
December 19, 2018 Many of the Town of Newmarket public Events and Programs occur because local businesses and individuals sponsor them. The Town sponsored a luncheon to thank them for their ongoing contributions. It is important that everyone know program attendance and involvement continues to increase as a result of these valued Sponsors. Yea Newmarket! 
As part of the new Council orientation, we took an 18 stop, 3 hour bus tour. Stops included development areas, key facilities, the Mulock Estate plus our impressive Public Works facility just off Harry Walker Parkway. Lots of great properties and lots of opportunity as Newmarket continues to grow and grow-up. 
