I want to thank the nearly 200 people who attended the annual Mayor’s Outlook Luncheon hosted by the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce last week. It was a wonderful event and the message was a positive one. As we look to the future, I am confident in our ability to overcome the current economic challenges. The City of Vaughan is well positioned to move ahead, to grow and to enhance our quality of life.
Last week, I had the distinct pleasure of attending the graduation ceremony for the newest members of the Vaughan Fire and Rescue Services. For many of the 10 graduates, it was the culmination of a lifelong dream. They successfully completed the 13 week training course and are now ready, not only to protect me and my family, but families throughout the City of Vaughan. Just think about it, when everyone is running out of a burning building, they are running in. These people are our future heros. For those in attendance, families and friends, the graduation ceremony is an event that will never be forgotten. Congratulations to our newest recruits and all the best in the future.
I also attended a York Region Workshop on the continuation of hospital funding to the three York Region hospitals and the Vaughan Health Care Foundation. Even though the Province should step up to the plate and fund hospitals appropriately, I firmly believe that municipalities have an obligation to fund them as well. Hospitals are an integral part of the community and always will be. The matter will go to February's Finance and Administration Committee this Thursday.
One issue has me a little put out these days is the hiring of a private investigation firm to look at how cheques signed by Councillor Joyce Frustaglio were leaked to the public. It’s truly a waste of time and money, in excess of $35,000. On top of which, there was no Council direction and there was no Request for Proposals that I can find. This sort of thing has got to stop.
Finally, on a happier note, I encourage everyone to attend the 20th annual Vaughan Winterfest this Sunday at Vellore Village Community Centre at 1 Villa Royale Avenue. For the kids there will be midway rides, face painting, and the Backyardigins will be performing. This is a great way to enjoy the winter, meet your neighbours and talk to Members of Council. And better yet, everything is free, but the food. I hope to see you there. The official welcome is at 1030am.
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It is unfortunate that the cheque debacle isn't getting press for the reason that a Councillor should not be signing cheques to her sons. (and the amount of work they do for the city).
ReplyDeleteWhy is no one writing about Councillor DiVona's affadavit in support of his developer friend? Leaving tax payers on the hook for a possible $150million...that because of Divona's admission of guilt on behalf of the City, give insurance companies an 'out' to deny coverage should the case be settled/judgement granted. $150 million lost versus spending $35,000 to find copied cheques. Something is terribly wrong!