Your City Magazine - Issue 2

Building Tomorrow Together

Clean energy leadership comes together at Ontario Power Generation’s Canadian Centre for Nuclear Sustainability (CCNS). At the helm is Carla Carmichael, OPG’s Vice-President of Nuclear Decommissioning Strategy.

ISSUE #2

Pickering Museum Village Exciting events to come in the 2022 program preview.

Universal City East A beautiful new community blooming within Pickering.

Pickering’s Journey to Sustainability A commitment to building a connected, inclusive, and sustainable community.

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editor

LETTER FROM THE

I

t’s been more than a year since we published the inaugural issue of Your City magazine. We regret the delay with this followup issue, but as we have committed to having this magazine fully funded through advertising revenue, the pandemic and resulting economic uncertainty provedtobeverychallenging.Withsucientadvertisingrevenuenowsecured,weencourage you to shop local and support our valued advertisers who have made this edition possible.

Whenputtingtogetherthismostrecentissue,anunocialbutpowerfulthemeemerged.

Namely, women are playing leading roles in helping to shape the future of our city. Starting with the cover, Carla Carmichael, OPG’s Vice-President of Decommissioning Strategy, is heading up the Centre for Canadian Nuclear Sustainability, which has just recently celebrated its one-year anniversary in downtown Pickering.

WithinCityHall,youwillbeintroducedtoMarisaCarpino,ChiefAdministrativeOcer,whohastheherculeantaskofover theworkofallofthedepartmentsandsta,whilealsomanaging ojects key like pr thelandmarkCityCentreproject.Youwillalso meet Catherine Rose, Chief Planner, who as a longtime resident is helping to evolve Pickering from a bedroom community to a more sustainable city. Finally, you will get to know Jaclyn San Antonio, Senior Advisor, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, whose overarching goal is to make City Hall and ultimately Pickering a more equitable, fair, and inclusive place to live, work, and play.

We hope you enjoy this edition of the magazine – a glossy and vibrant showcase for all of the exciting and transformative projects and initiatives taking place in Your City.

MARK GUINTO

Division Head, Public Affairs & Corporate Communications, City of Pickering

publisher

LETTER FROM THE

W

e are so proud to bring another issue of Your City magazine to the residents of Pickering.

It has been a long road since our last issue and, as many of you know, big changes have emerged in our vibrant city.

One thing that has not changed is the tenacity of our city and its residents. We have come together through these trying times and have emerged stronger on the other side. The folks who run community programs with the City have ensured residents stayed engaged through COVID this year with curbside pickups, a spectacular walk-through light event and some wonderful online events to keep us busy during these unprecedented times.

The team at Graymatter Marketing + Media has also been busy. We opened up a retail outlet over COVID to help keep the community safe. Our Be Safe PPE and More store had three locations in Ontario from our home base at the Pickering Town Centre.

We were so happy to once again be able to bring this magazine to life and help keep our community engaged with the projects and changes within our city.

We are so grateful to the advertisers in this and every issue as publishing this magazine is not possible without them. I am so proud to raise my family and run a business in Pickering as it grows in a positive, new direction. There has never been a more exciting time to work and live in Pickering!

AUDRA LESLIE

Owner, Graymatter Marketing + Media 4 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

table of

contents

14

12 COVER STORY:

10

17

20

BUILDING TOMORROW TOGETHER + CCNS SPOTLIGHT: CARLA CARMICHAEL ........................................................ 17-21 GREETINGS FROM YOUR CITY COUNCIL..................................................... 8

PROPERTY TAXES: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW......................................... 28

WE REMEMBER OUR FRIEND AND COLLEAGUE, IAN CUMMING ................. 9

DISCOVER THE TRAFALGAR DIFFERENCE................................................ 29

MARISA CARPINO SPOTLIGHT................................................................. 10

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION IN PICKERING.................................. 30

ENHANCING & PROTECTING PICKERING’S WATERFRONT.......................... 11

PICKERING’S PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE......................................................... 31

MAYOR RYAN: PICKERING IS EVOLVING INTO A WORLD-CLASS CITY......... 12

#PICKERINGPROUD................................................................................ 31

PICKERING CITY CENTRE........................................................................ 14

ALTONA TOWNS...................................................................................... 32

LET’S TALK PICKERING........................................................................... 15

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT IN PICKERING............................................. 34

Q+A WITH TONYA MCINTYRE.................................................................. 22

CATHERINE ROSE SPOTLIGHT................................................................. 36

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN PICKERING............................................... 24

CONTINUING PICKERING’S SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY............................. 37

40 YEARS OF BUILDING EXCELLENCE...................................................... 26

CHESTNUT HILL DEVELOPMENTS RECREATION COMPLEX....................... 38 Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 5

Your City Magazine Team

G R AY M AT T E R M A R K E T I N G + M E D I A

Editorial & Design AUDRA LESLIE, Publisher Audra is the owner of Graymatter Marketing + Media and is a business leader with expertise in managing multiple sales and service programs while exceeding financial objectives. Audra has more than 20 years experience in the marketing and media research fields, working with global, national, provincial, local, community and not-for-profit programs and organizations. Audra excels at understanding customer needs, relationship building and collaborating both internally and externally, as well as coaching and developing team members. Audra is passionate about bringing new ideas to life and making current ones work to their full potential. Audra and her busy family like to spend time up north hiking, swimming, boating, and just hanging out enjoying time together.

CHANTELLE DAVIDSON, Publication Coordinator Delivering outstanding customer service has always been an essential part of a day’s work for Chantelle. As Your City Magazine’s Publishing Coordinator, Chantelle uses her organizational skills to ensure smooth operations in a busy work environment.

Chantelle’s background includes more than 15 years of Human Resource and Office Management, working with clients from all sectors.

PUBLISHER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF PUBLICATION COORDINATOR ART DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGN WRITERS

COVER PHOTO OTHER PHOTOGRAPHY

PROOFREADING

Audra Leslie Mark Guinto Chantelle Davidson Kat O’Donnell Angelia Liu OPG Staff City of Pickering Staff Audra Leslie Chantelle Davidson Lois Tuffin David Leyes City of Pickering David Leyes Pickering Public Library Shutterstock Lois Tuffin

SKYE OLIVER, Social Media Manager Skye is a digital and social media professional and in-house expert at Graymatter Marketing + Media. She has a passion for understanding the ever-evolving digital world and helping others reap the benefits. Studying social trends, creating innovative ways to grow audiences, drive brand awareness and analyze insights have proven to be key in her success.

KAT O’DONNELL, Art Director Kat is an ambitious designer with a life-long love of art. Her interest in graphic design began when she was on her high school yearbook committee, and she went on to enroll in Durham College’s graphic design program, where she received an advanced diploma. Her artistic talent and proficiency in design software help her create the best solutions for every client she works with. When not in the office, Kat enjoys hiking, reading and creating art.

Your City is published by:

For advertising inquiries, contact: Graymatter Marketing + Media 1550 Bayly Street, Unit 16A, Pickering, Ontario, L1W 3W1 905-420-1810 info@graymattermedia.com graymattermedia.com

ANGELIA LIU, Graphic Designer A multi-talented designer with more than 10 years of experience working in the Greater Toronto Area as a graphic designer in product design, illustration and branding. At a very young age her love for art and the creative freedom that it allowed throughout her life has guided her to find her passion in creating work that contributes to bringing happiness to others as it has for herself.

She is always learning and growing her skills to understand the best way to work with her team in creating a product for every client needs. On days when she’s not in the office, she enjoys the simple things that brings her joy in life, such as spending time with her family and friends, a ride around the city, trying new foods or playing video games.

Made in collaboration with:

www.pickering.ca

LOIS TUFFIN, Writer & Proofreader Lois Tuffin is the former editor in chief of Peterborough This Week, Kawartha Lakes This Week, and the Brock Citizen. She was named Ontario’s Community Newspaper Editor of the Year in 2014 and North American’s Newsroom Innovator of the Year in 2010. She now freelances and enjoys learning something new every day.

DAVID LEYES, Photographer For more than 29 years David has been recognized in the North American acting, music and advertising communities for his unique style of portrait, music and editorial photography.

Eighteen of those years, from 1995 to 2012, were at the Molson Canadian Amphitheatre (now the Budweiser Stage). David's clients include Corus Entertainment, Sony Music, Universal Music, Cosmo TV, Unilever, Rolling Stone, CBC, the Toronto Star, the Globe & Mail, Live Nation and Universal Concerts. Everyday life and the many people who come into his life are inspirations of his work. David lives in Canada with his wife and two beautiful boys.

6 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

Advertising Policy

Your City Magazine accepts advertising based upon space availability and consistency with its mission to promote local business and community activity within Pickering. Your City Magazine is not responsible for the content of advertisements, the products offered or the viewpoints expressed therein.

Editorial Note

The information provided in this magazine is for educational and informational purposes only. The opinions expressed here are not necessarily those of Graymatter Marketing or its affiliates. Different views may appear in future articles or publications. Articles in Your City Magazine are copyrighted and must not be reprinted, duplicated or transmitted in any way without permission.

Graymatter is a premium marketing boutique that serves Durham Region and the GTA.

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905-420-1810

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1550 Bayly Street, Unit 16A Pickering, ON L1W 3W1

Greetings from

Your City Council

Contact City Council: 905.420.4605 • council@pickering.ca

Kevin Ashe Bill McLean David Pickles

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the City of Pickering community. Our small and local businesses, who are the backbone of our economy, have been disproportionately affected. They need your help now more than ever. We encourage you to show your support for the businesses that make up our community by shopping and dining locally or on social media by promoting your favourite businesses with the hashtag #SupportPickering. Visit pickering.ca/ExplorePickering to learn more.

Regional Councillor, Ward 1

The second phase of the Waterfront and Nautical Village Community Engagement on Let’s Talk Pickering recently concluded on November 30th, 2021. The community feedback received on the two online surveys in July and November will be considered in a summary report by the Planning and Development Committee Council in February 2022. The community feedback will be used to inform a review of the Nautical Village and related planning policies and development guidelines, which is expected to commence next year.

Regional Councillor, Ward 2

Regional Councillor, Ward 3

8 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

Pickering is saturated with natural beauty and whatever the season, it has never been easier to connect with your outdoors. This winter, the City is planning to have four outdoor natural ice rinks, three of which will be maintained by the City. Weather permitting, we hope residents will get good use of them. Watch the City website and social media sites for further information. The locations are: Claremont Memorial Park, Forestbrook Park, and Rick Hull Memorial Park.

Maurice Brenner Shaheen

Community health and safety goes hand in hand. Whether its the largest Neighbourhood Watch Program in South Rosebank or the introduction of Pickering’s first permanent Speed Board that was a partnership with the Fairport Beach Neighbourhood Association. By engaging residents, we have established designated community Safety Zones abutting schools and or designated parks which will use rotating mobile speed boards along with Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE). Our goal is to keep our streets and communities safe and with your continued support we will.

City Councillor, Ward 1

The Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex (CHDRC) is under active construction. We have seen the behind-the-scenes work and the progress is exciting. The building is about 40 years old and although there have been updates over the years it really needed a renovation. Following a concept design and extensive community engagement, the City began the phased construction. The work should substantively be completed and the recreation centre re-opened in February 2022.

Butt

City Councillor, Ward 3

IN MEMORIAM

We remember our dear friend and colleague, Ian Cumming On November 1, 2021, the City of Pickering lost a respected colleague and a good friend to many in our organization, the community, and beyond. Ian was a strong community advocate for his ward and the waterfront community, and equally passionate about Pickering’s evolution from a bedroom community to a sustainable city. He was also a renowned animal lover and could often be seen out in the community walking his beloved dogs.

Ian, you will be missed and will remain in our thoughts.

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 9

MARISA CARPIN Making history as Pickering’srst fi femaleCAO

S T O R Y B Y: Audra Leslie | P H O T O B Y: David Leyes

“While Marisa’s distinguished career and significant number of accomplishments here at the City are to be lauded, I truly believe that she is only getting started,” Mayor Dave Ryan said of her February 2021 appointment. “With her leadership, we fully expect the corporation to achieve even greater results.”

The CAO is responsible for the strategic leadership of the Corporation of the City of Pickering and works in consultation with City Council, the community and various partners to strengthen the city in the manner in which it delivers services and programs to residents and stakeholders. “I recognize that a supportive work environment, built on mutual respect and accountability, is critical to the development of a dynamic, effective and productive staff team and that is how I will lead as CAO,” Marisa says.

W

hen Marisa Carpino landed an entrylevel job at the City of Pickering in 1995 after completing graduate studies in recreation and leisure services, she never imagined she’d onedaybecomeitsChiefAdministrativeOcer.

Over the past 25 years, I have experienced Pickering’s evolution into one of the most dynamic cities in all of Ontario.

“I believed in myself and was determined to work my way up in the organization,” Marisa says of the job that served as a building block in a rewarding career in municipal government. “I committed to seizing every opportunity that came my way and accepted new responsibilities and challenges with an open mind and a curious attitude.”

Marisa continues to champion opportunities for meaningful community engagement, prioritizing collaboration with members of the public and stakeholder groups in shaping the Pickering of the future. Namely, the City’s Facebook Live Events and virtual Speaker Series events have been wildly popular as the community conversation continues around the new services, programs, facilities, and developments that are introducing a never-before-seen energy and dynamic to Pickering.

The City of Pickering is developing a Corporate Workplan & Strategic Plan that will be instrumental in creating a blueprint for More than 25 years later, that signature tenacity and curiosity municipal activities and priorities and informing our allocation of continue to serve Marisa – and the City of Pickering – well. She resources. Marisa’s to-do list includes overseeing several exciting has achieved admirable results in everything from service delivery, projects that will further transform our city into one that’s even nancial fi managementandstrategicplanningtoorganizational more connected, vibrant and sustainable. reviews and audits, earning the respect of her colleagues and “Over the past 25 years, I have experienced Pickering’s evolution into one community along the way. of the most dynamic cities in all of Ontario,” she says. “Pickering is on In her roles as Deputy CAO and Interim CAO, Marisa proved the cusp of tremendous growth and opportunity due to transformative herself up for a challenge unlike any other. She led Pickering’s development projects such as Seaton, Durham Live and the Innovation COVID-19 response and oversaw the seamless transition of City Corridor, to name only a few,” Marisa notes.

Hall to an online business and service model while also advancing Pickering City Centre is undergoing a bold transformation that will several key economic and community initiatives, including the include a performing arts centre, a relocated and expanded central development of the Anti-Black Racism Taskforce, and the launch library, a combined seniors’ and youth centre, condominium towers, of the City’s new digital community engagement platform, and a vibrant public square. “The City Centre project is one that is LetsTalkPickering.ca. going to bring the city to new levels, encompassing an age-in-place theory When it came time to appoint a permanent CAO in early 2021, an where we can all live, work and play throughout your lifetime,” Marisa executive search consultant conducted a nation-wide search that enthuses. attracted nearly 100 candidates. Marisa’s proven track record and Her can-do attitude and commitment to Pickering ensures we all have her vision for a progressive, prosperous and inclusive Pickering something to look forward to in the city we’re proud to call home. earned the Mayor and City Council’s stamp of approval.

10 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

Enhancing and Protecting

P

Pickering’s

W A T E R F R O N T

ickering’s waterfront is the shimmering jewel of our community and it’s important that we remain thoughtful in our approach when improving and enhancing these special spaces. The community continues to grow and see increased tourism and activity around these destinations and that is why over the past year, the City has asked the broader community to participate in the long-term planning and vision for its waterfront.

With your help, we will ensure that our waterfront continues to be safe, accessible, and enjoyable for all that live, work, and visit here.

1. Waterfront Parking Plan City Council recently approved a new waterfront parking plan that would see the implementation of paid parking from May 1 - October 1 annually for nonresidents at municipally-owned parking lots and paid permit parking on one side of waterfront area streets.

StaytunedforupdatesasCitystawillbeworkingon the details of the waterfront parking plan.

2. Beachfront Park Beachfront Park Revitalization and Needs Assessment Study-toaddressaspecificportionofthewaterfront thathasbeensignificantlyimpactedbyhighwater levels and major storm events.

3. Nautical Village Community Pickering Waterfront and Nautical Village Community Engagement – an opportunity to provide feedback and opinions on your experiences, hopes, and ideas on how we can enjoy, enhance, and protect the waterfront for generations to come.

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 11

Pickering is

evolving S T O R Y B Y: Mayor Dave Ryan | P H O T O B Y: David Leyes

W

hen the Guinness Book of World RecordsconfirmedthePickering Pedestrian Bridge as the longest enclosed people crossing in the world earlier this year, I expressed pride that the bridgewasociallyrecognizedasan international and world-class landmark.

More than a decade later, that future is unfolding as our City Centre undergoes a bold transformation. In 2018 – the same year construction of the pedestrian bridge was completed – we announced our plans to partner with the owners of Pickering Town Centre to redevelop the lands on the east side of the mall.

But this feat of engineering is much more than that. When the City of Pickering Inspired by world-renowned public firstproposedapedestrianbridgethat spaces, our vision is to create a vibrant would span Canada’s busiest highway downtown with new state-of-theto link our GO Transit station to a new art municipal facilities, including a ocetower,ourvisionwastoconstruct performing a arts centre, a combined “bridge to the future.” seniors and youth centre, and a relocated and expanded Central Library, surrounded by a vibrant and pedestrianfriendly public square.

Region, which will go a long way to helping our region on its path to postpandemic economic recovery.

Also on the economic development front, Ontario Power Generation has been investing in projects focused on decommissioning and nuclear material management since opening its Centre for Canadian Nuclear Sustainability (CCNS) last year. OPG owns the largest reactorfleetinCanadaandwillbegin the decommissioning phase of Pickering Nuclear Generating Station in the mid2020s. CCNS, featured in this magazine, will make Canada a world leader in nuclear decommissioning.

Oneofthemostsignificantactions The City Centre project will introduce a Canada can take to mitigate climate never-before-seen energy and dynamic change is to further invest in green energy to Pickering and, together with Durham and we look forward to building on our Live, will bolster our reputation as a long history of being on the leading edge tourism destination. Durham Live will in terms of nuclear power. Pickering is become one of the premier entertainment a regional hub not only for the nuclear and tourism districts east of Yonge Street, supply chain but also as the industry and a popular Ontario destination. works to develop sustainable solutions Anchoredbyaresortcasinoandfive-star for the electricity sector. hotel, it will include a boutique hotel, Pickeringtakesprideinfindingsolutio convention centre, amphitheatre, as we have demonstrated throughout restaurants, cinemas, the pandemic. We were proud to host performancevenues,anoce successful mass vaccination clinics at the towerandfilmstudios.

Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation The City of Pickering is pleased Complex, where thousands of doses of to support a project that will COVID-19 vaccines were administered at move forward after satisfying the height of the pandemic. several key requirements.

As we emerge from one of the most Eventually, it will bring dicultperiodsinournation’shistor 10,000+ full-time, wellwe will remember inspirational acts of paying jobs to Durham

Mayor Dave Ryan, City of Pickering 12 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

Community engagement has long been a hallmark of our city and continues to be one of our highest priorities.

g

into a world class city kindness big and small that helped us weather the storm. Namely, GrandDad’s Cares Collective was born out of a businessowner’s desire to reach out to others when the pandemic turned our world upside down. And Caremongers Pickering-Ajax was created to help people in crisis by providing short-term emergency support.

Community engagement has long been a hallmark of our city and continues to be one of our highest priorities. That is why we launched a new online platform, LetsTalkPickering.ca. Ensuring our residents have a fun and easy way to have a say on the programs, policies, and

projects that are shaping Pickering now and into the future helps us see the big picture so we can make better and more informed decisions.

We have encouraged community engagement on a variety of issues, including our bid to bring Lakeridge Health’s new full-service hospital with an emergency room to Pickering. Our proposed 70-acre site would accommodate both a hospital and healthcare campus and would be ideally situated to better support our residents and accommodate future growth.

The purpose of the Housing Strategy Study is to establish our role and priorities in facilitating opportunities for developing a diverse range of housing, including aordable,age-friendlyandaccessible housing here over the next decade.

Pickering has already taken steps to addressthisimportantissue.Thefirst residential component within the City Centre, for instance, will be a purposebuilt apartment building. The Durham Live residential project, meanwhile, will be home to 1,500 residential units, 150 units of which have already been designated aordablehousingandnotjustwhen the units are initially occupied but when transferred to the next occupants.

We also asked our community for input on our Housing Strategy Study. Amid a country-wide housing crisis that has put homeownership out of reach for a growing As we look forward to a new year ahead, number of Canadians, all levels of I wish you and your loved ones good government must pay attention to housing healthandhappiness.Iamconfidentwe aordability.IbelieveitisPickering’sduty willcontinuetofindstrengthbyhelpin to not only acknowledge the crisis, but to one another and look forward to your take real and meaningful action to address it. continued and meaningful input into our shared future. As the Pickering Pedestrian WeknowahealthyhousingsystemoersBridge illustrates, great accomplishments a diverse mix of housing to accommodate begin with a forward-thinking vision that a variety of individual and family needs. inspires and motivates!

WINTER NIGHTS

City Lights A WALK THROUGH EXPERIENCE

Take a winter walk through Esplanade Park and experience the magic all season.

Immerse yourself into recorded performances including LED dancers, live performers from Groove Marmalade, and a tree lighting countdown, placed throughout the park via QR codes. View our new LED Tree Light Sculpture, lit by Elexicon and Capture the Moment inside Pickering’s Light Tunnel and selfie stations by OPG. Enjoy the magic now until February 2022.

In partnership with

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 13

Senoirs & Youth Centre

Pickering C I T Y

C E N T R E New Central Library

T

hank you to all who provided their input on the design and features of the proposed facilities for Pickering’s City Centre. Community input is critical in shaping this landmark project that will see a vibrant, connected, and bustling downtown, where municipal services, shopping & retail, and residential intensifi cation come togethe as the heart of the city.

Inspired by world-renowned public spaces, the bold new vision for Pickering’s City Centre features an exciting array of new, state-of-the-art buildings and municipal facilities, including a Performing Arts Centre, a combined Seniors & Youth Centre, relocation and expansion of the Pickering Central Library, and a vibrant Public Square.

A special meeting of the Council was held in the fall of 2021 and included reports on community engagement conducted in 2021 and the City’s fi nancial plan to fund the project. The City Centre project was fi rst announced in 2018 and involves a partnership OPB Realty Inc., owners of Pickering Town Centre (PTC), and includes the redevelopment of lands on the east side of the mall and immediately south of Esplanade South.

Performing Arts Centre 14 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

Learn more at pickering.ca/CityCentre.

Let’s Talk P I C K E R I N G !

D

ive into the City’s new digital space, where users can learn, engage, share in discussions, and collaborate.

This new and innovative digital platform connects residents with their municipal government and facilitates meaningful discussions on the programs, policies, and projects that are shaping Pickering now and into the future.

Community engagement is one of our highest priorities. We need to remove barriers to participation by providing our community with an easy way to get involved – when andwheretheychoose.We’reproudtooer our residents with an active say on the services, projects, programs, and initiatives that touch their everyday lives.

- Mayor Dave Ryan

Residents, businesses, and visitors can browse the site, learn more about key City initiatives, and provide importantfeedbackforstaandCouncil consideration. Live moderators monitor the site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, which fosters a safe, welcoming, and collaborative user experience.

Featured projects have included Waterfront Parking, City Centre User Experience, Property Standards, and more.

Stay tuned for upcoming projects. iV sit LetsTalkPickering.ca to learn more, register as a user to have your say, and stay tuned for future engagement opportunities.

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 15

Building your ideas into big plans www.thebiglierigroup.com

Planning | Development | Project Management | Urban Design

S T O R Y B Y: OPG | P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F : OPG

Pickering’s past, present, and future clean energy leadership come together at Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) Canadian Centre for Nuclear Sustainability (CCNS). The Centre opened its doors a year ago and there is a lot to celebrate.

It will attract skilled jobs, innovative businesses and economic development to Durham Region while advancing solutions for minimizing nuclear materials and recycling clean materials. While much of the work is focused on decommissioning the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station (PNGS), the CCNS also has a broader mission: creating more sustainable solutions for the nuclear life cycle.

For decades, PNGS has been a proud part of the community and has produced safe, clean, reliable nuclear power for Ontario’s homes, businesses, schools and hospitals. Now, the CCNS continues the clean energy legacy, bringing together industry, Indigenous communities and other community partners, academia and other stakeholders to build a future we can all continue to be proud of.

“As owner of the largest CANDU reactor fleet in Canada, OPG has an incredibly unique opportunity to lead the nuclear industry in creating safe and sustainable solutions for the end of the nuclear life cycle,” said Carla Carmichael, Vice-President, Nuclear Decommissioning Strategy.

“PNGS has long been a steady source of both electricity and lifesaving Cobalt-60 medical isotopes. The same excellence and spirit of

innovation we brought to building and operating the plant will apply to decommissioning Pickering. But we know we don’t have all the answers.

That’s why it’s so important to bring such a variety of expertise together to advance our shared goal. We know success will come when we all work together to build worldwide solutions right here in Durham.”

Under OPG’s current plan, Pickering’s units will stop producing energy in the middle of this decade. Following this, the fuel and water will be removed and the station will be placed in a safe storage state beginning the decommissioning process. This plan ensures the maximum economic benefits of the generation station in the community.

“Our current decommissioning plans take into account operational experience, industry best practices and technological advances,” said Carla. “As a responsible operator, we are always looking for ways to enhance the plan. Through the collaboration and research CCNS enables, we are looking at innovations to safely and efficiently decommission that could lead to schedule opportunities.”

For Pickering, this means being home to a world-class facility that will attract skilled jobs, innovative businesses and economic development to the region.

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 17

“This new chapter begins with the type of innovation and collaboration we see happening at the CCNS,” said Mayor Dave Ryan, City of Pickering “Having this type of centre of excellence located here in Pickering allows us to build on the expertise and experience already here to create a regional hub for the nuclear supply chain.”

The CCNS and its work are a natural fit for Durham.

“Energy innovation is strong in Durham,” said Simon Gill, Director, Economic Development & Tourism, Region of Durham. “Durham’s established Energy Cluster with more than 10,000 highly-skilled engineering, environment, and energy sector workers, means that new high-tech suppliers and innovators will find the talent they need to grow and a supportive ecosystem to thrive.

The work being undertaken by OPG and the CCNS demonstrates how OPG is positively impacting the province by building strong and safe communities while strengthening the economy.”

The CCNS exists to ensure nuclear energy always remains a benefit for future generations; it’s about building sustainability in an already clean industry.

“We have heard time and again that nuclear power is a key building block of our lowcarbon future,” said Carla. “The innovative practices we develop through CCNS will help ensure long-term solutions for the broader nuclear power industry. We pledged in our Climate Change Plan to be carbon-neutral as a company by 2040, and to act as a catalyst for efficient economy-wide decarbonization by 2050 in the communities where we operate.

The work we do at CCNS helps us meet that commitment.”

Just as PNGS has helped lead the way on clean, reliable power production, now OPG, through the CCNS, is bringing together the best in the industry and community to lead the way on decommissioning and long-term energy solutions.

18 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

“The ongoing research and collaborative culture at the CCNS is a remarkable example of how municipalities, academic institutes and the nuclear industry at large can come together and spark real transformative change,” said Sabrina Nestor, CCNS Manager.

The CCNS is a remarkable example of how municipalities, academic institutes and the nuclear industry at large can come together and spark real transformative change

Driving Innovation The CCNS recently established an annual $2-million innovation fund for new research and development projects that will help prepare for Pickering Nuclear Generating Station decommissioning and advance solutions for minimizing nuclear materials and recycling clean materials.

The ideas, techniques and solutions that come from these projects will: • help reduce timelines and costs for the decommissioning project • enhance employee safety • advance solutions for minimizing nuclear materials and recycling clean materials • ensure the safety of the community and environment

Working with industry partner Nuclear Promise X, a nuclear innovation catalyst, the CCNS issued a Request for Innovative Ideas to gather ideas from the energy industry, academia, and other stakeholders to create sustainable solutions.

Nearly 300 submissions were received.

After multiple vendor consultations and review meetings, OPG honed in on a handful of promising ideas. One example is a collaborative research study with CCNS partner Promation Nuclear to look at a substance that can safely remove nuclear by-products from surfaces.

The strippable coating will reduce unwanted substances in the decommissioning environment, resulting in lower disposal costs and a cleaner environment. This product can be used on many surfaces including concrete,

steel and valves. Another example is a collaborative study with CCNS partner Cavendish Nuclear to identify the future skillsets required for decommissioning and the forecast of demand during the decommissioning timeline. It will also consider current and future large infrastructure projects planned throughout the province that could impact industry workforce capacity.

Cavendish Nuclear has done similar work on a decommissioning project in the UK and will use that experience to inform this study as they expand their Canadian footprint.

“Early identification will help reveal any gaps that might exist and allow for time to build up the workforce through training programs,” said Sabrina Nestor, Manager of the CCNS. “The CCNS could also expand to provide a platform to exchange ideas and best practices at a global level.”

OPG has the opportunity now to identify skills that will be required in the future and develop solid plans to fill any gaps by building the workforce through skilled training for nuclear decommissioning projects, Nestor added.

To learn about more exciting innovation projects underway, visit theccns.com

What we do: We support OPG’s mission to achieve a net-zero economy by developing and promoting sustainable ways to minimize the impact of nuclear power generation throughout its entire life cycle.

How we do it: By bringing together industry, community partners and homegrown talent to create innovative, long-term solutions.

Why we do it: To prove that nuclear energy can be an enduring benefit today and for generations to come, far into the future.

The work the CCNS is doing is built on four foundational pillars: Environment: Creating sustainable plans for safe, environmentally and socially responsible decommissioning Economy: Creating economic stimulus and skilled job opportunities Innovation in the Industry: Innovating through collaborative research and development opportunities Community: Being involved in the local community through broad outreach and inclusiveness

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 19

CCNS SPOTLIGHT

It’s exciting to plan for the future of the Pickering station 20 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

Carla Carmichael S T O R Y B Y: OPG | P H O T O S B Y: David Leyes

Canada’s largest and most complex mega-nuclear infrastructure projects. Previously, she held senior leadership roles in finance and marketing in a variety of other sectors, including municipal government, private sector, not-for-profit and public auditing, and has both Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) and MBA designations.

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t the helm of the CCNS and decommissioning is Carla Carmichael, OPG’s Vice-President of Nuclear Decommissioning Strategy and CCNS Lead. Carla is known for her leadership and advocacy for gender equality in the workforce, with a focus on breaking down barriers for women in the nuclear industry and skilled trades.

“It’s exciting to plan for the future of the Pickering station,” said Carla. “CANDU is made-in-Canada technology. Now, we have the opportunity to shape its future and create a made-in-Canada plan for the end of the life cycle.”

Carla brings a wealth of experience to her role, having played a leadership role in the Darlington Refurbishment Project, one of

Carla is a strong advocate of nuclear technology and the value it brings to the electricity and health sectors, the environment and the socioeconomic fabric of Ontario. She serves as a board member with CANDU Owners Group, Durham College Foundation, and Ontario Tech University, and is an active member of Women in Nuclear (WiN) and the Driving the Advancement of Women in Nuclear group (DAWN).

She received WiN Canada’s Harriet Brooks award, recognizing her outstanding leadership contributions to the success of WiN Canada. The award honours the life and work of Harriet Brooks – the first female nuclear scientist in Canada; defying the odds in a male-dominated field.

With an innovative and forward-thinking approach, Carla is leading the CCNS toward strategic, innovative, and sustainable solutions for nuclear power.

The future of nuclear is exciting and full of opportunity. We welcome fresh ideas, conversation and new innovative ways of thinking. Connect with us at: ccns@opg.com | LinkedIn: centre-for-canadian-nuclear-sustainability | Twitter: @CCNSinnovation

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 21

Q A +

with Tonya McIntyre

W H AT Y O U N E E D T O K N O W A B O U T D U R H A M R E A L E S TAT E

Why is Durham such a desirable market RIGHT NOW? “We are extremely grateful that Durham residents have welcomed us into their homes,” Tonya says. “Our clients have become like family.”

“Durham has definitely been a hot spot for the past 18 to 20 months because we are still undervalued with respect to the rest of the GTA. With GO train access almost to Bowmanville and the 407 open to Highway 115, commuters have a multitude of options.”

Durham has more land and space that is still aordable to families.

“Durham has had substantial growth in 2020/21,” she notes. “Home equity has increased 30 or 40 percent in many cases, allowing homeowners to make the most of that equity by remodeling or buying an investment property.”

What are the best options to make the most of the hot market?

S T O R Y B Y: Lois Tuffin | P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F : The Tonya McIntyre Team

Since that level of equity wasn’t there two or three years ago, she encourages homeowners to talk to their mortgage brokers about When Tonya McIntyre bought her first home in 197, she had big their options from renovating to relocating to a new property. Her dreams but a limited income. Those dreams fueled her to earn the team can also distinction as the eighth top-notch realtor in Ontario, 17th inconnect you with mortgage experts who know this market well.

Canada,andnumber31intheworldforRE/MAX’ssmallteams.

What are the best investments to make when upgrading?

Working in real estate since 2013, she generously shares her expertise with her clients, drawing on her rich experience and an in-depth understanding of the luxury home market in Durham For those looking to renovate, she suggests basing your plans on in particular. She works within RE/MAX Hallmark, the world’s whether you plan to sell or stay. largestRE/MAXBrokerage.

“If you’re choosing to upgrade your home for future investment then focus on the areas we tend to use the most – kitchens and bathrooms,” Tonya says.

Why is Pickering such a good place to buy?

Tonyaandherhusbandpurchasedtheirrst fi homeinGlendale,then “If you’re looking for the long term, I always recommend changing the raised three children in a community they love. They have since things you enjoy the most with your family, such as family rooms, the purchased countless homes in the city. basement, and your bedrooms. Why wait till you’re moving to renovate for someone else? Enjoy your investment. This is Shends fi iteasytoinvitehomebuyerstoliveinthisstrong where memories are made.” and diverse city.

“We have great leadership and such a sense of pride,” she points out. “I still believe Pickering is the best-kept secret in the GTA. Here, we are less than 30 minutes from downtown, yet close to major arteries like Highways 401 and 407 that connect us to neighbouring cities. We are also halfway to cottage county as the demand for the cottage lifestyle grows.”

Within the next ve fi years, she expects more growth in job opportunities and amenities, including new restaurants and facilities for families.

“I see nothing but fabulous growth on the horizon in terms of property values and opportunities galore,” Tonya adds.

22 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

“If there is anything we have learned in recent years, home is our safe haven and our place of comfort. Enjoy it.”

905-999-7682 etmcintyre@rogers.com tonyamcintyre.com

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A M I C A P I C K E R I N G E L E VAT E S S E N I O R L I V I NG Advertorial

an award-winning Assistant General Manager and Manager. As an award-winning former chef, he’s proud of the residence’s diverse food program.

A C T I V I T I E S T O K E E P YO U C O N N E C T E D With our team cooking, cleaning and handling maintenance, you’ll have more time to do what you love best. “You’ll find so many interesting ways to stay engaged and entertained through your choice of daily programs such as fitness classes, cooking demonstrations, art workshops and cultural outings,” says Community Relations Director Stephanie Winters, who started her career coordinating life-enrichment programs for seniors.

Imagine the appeal of a premium retirement residence with Lake Ontario views, where you can head out for a walk with a neighbour or stay in and catch a lecture with friends, then enjoy dinner prepared by a chef. Discerning seniors will have all this and more in early 2022 at Amica Pickering.

“No one in Pickering offers as much choice and flexibility, and we’re one of the only residences with Memory Care,” says General Manager Adam Wiener.

“The location is so convenient and walkable that you don’t need a car: we’re across from Pickering Town Centre. Many seniors have already reserved their spots.

As Founders Club members, they’re now receiving exclusive access to our programs, activities and social events. It’s like they’re living at Amica before they’re living at Amica.”

P R E M I U M A M E N I T I E S A N D L O C AT I O N You can exercise, have your hair done or host a family party at Amica Pickering. Its amenities include a fitness centre, hair salon and spa, private dining room, craft kitchen, theatre, indoor pool, workshop, greenhouse and landscaped patios. The interiors feature Amica’s elegant accessible design, with a warm palette of creamy neutrals, sea glass and rich accents. Our prime location puts you near local arts centres, boutiques, walking paths and Frenchman’s Bay. E XC E P T I O N A L D I N I N G Sit down to mouth-watering nutritious meals prepared by our culinary team using fresh local ingredients. You decide what, when and where to eat: in the dining room, bistro, your suite or on the patio. “With all-day dining, you can order bacon and eggs at 3 p.m.,” says Wiener, who joined Amica seven years ago and rose to become

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E XC E P T I O N A L S A F E T Y Vaccinations are just the latest step in our comprehensive COVID-19 protocols — including masking, sanitization, physical distancing and more as required — to help residents enjoy life together in a safe space.

B E S T- I N - C L A S S C A R E Amica’s personalized professional care offers peace of mind with nurses on-site 24/7. You’ll have a choice of Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care at Amica Pickering.

“That continuum and level of care is unique at Amica Pickering, and it means you don’t have to move if your needs change,” says Community Relations Director Renee Mathieu, an experienced senior living professional who grew up in Pickering. “Even with different care needs, couples can continue to live together.”

LIVING WITH OPTIMISM It’s easy to look ahead with possibility when you’re safely enjoying each day with excellent hospitality and care in a city you love.

To book your catered lunch and see our model suite, please call Renee Mathieu or Stephanie Winters at 905-839-2323.

905 -839-2323

AMICA.CA/PICKERING 2021-12-14 3:32 PM

Economicin Pick D S T O R Y B Y: Lois Tuffin | P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F : City of Pickering

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here are ample reasons why residents choose Pickering to work, play, and grow.

The City aims to build on this momentum to see even more vital Pickering is invested in a number of transformational projects, businesses and services including areas like its waterfront, downtown, and the innovation to complement the corridor.Itisaordablewhilestilloeringaccesstostateof-growth the- in expected art amenities, a mix of small, local businesses yet also all major City Centre, Fiaz adds. retail and franchises.

“Pickering is Just ask Fiaz Jadoon, the Director of Economic Development and experiencing significant Strategic Projects. growth and it is important that we He is particularly excited and passionate about the potential continuously evolve and arising from the redevelopment of Pickering’s City Centre. adapt to the needs of our community,” Fiaz says.

“It will revitalize the core of Pickering and create a major hub in the Greater Toronto Area,” he says. “Pickering’s City Centre is undergoing a bold transformation that will see an exciting array of new, state-of-theart buildings and municipal facilities.”

This $200M development alone will add a performing arts centre, a relocated and expanded central library, a combined seniors’ and youth centre, three condominium towers, a hotel, and a vibrant public square. The development will complement the existing transportation hub at the heart of a vibrant, connected, and engaged community.

The project arises from a partnership with OPB Realty Inc. and focuses on the land on the east side of the mall and immediately south of The Esplanade South. Demolition of the east side of the mall has been completed as the next phase takes shape.

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Fiaz Jadoon, Director of Economic Development and Strategic Projects.

“Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, we witnessed a lot of businesses deeply struggle and we look forward to the next phase,” he says. “We are proud of the ‘shop local’ and community support from businesses and residents. We are also happy to see all the investments and new businesses that opened in the community during the pandemic.

They are a testament that the City of Pickering is the place to be.”

Pickering saw more than $600M in construction value in 2020 and is on track to see similar results in 2021. Even bigger things arecoming,Fiazadds,sincemanygreenfieldanddevelopment opportunities still abound within its borders.

For example, the Innovation Corridor, located along Highway 7 and 407, has more than 800 acres of prestige employment lands.

evelopment kering As the population grows and more businesses are moving to Pickering, it’s becoming a city where residents can live, work, and play

One of the notable new developments is the Canadian headquarters for Kubota Canada Ltd., a Japanese manufacturer of construction equipment, which will bring more than 200 jobs to the city. The City of Pickering is working closely with Infrastructure Ontario tofindandwelcome the ideal partners to the community.

“As the population grows and more businesses are moving to Pickering, it’s becoming a city where residents can live, work, and play,” Fiaz says.

“A key piece of this is bringing health care closer to home for residents in Pickering and Durham Region.”

continues its long-term planning and vision for this integral area.

The goal is to enhance its use so everyone can enjoy, enhance, and protect it for generations to come.

Looking ahead, the Seaton Community will be the most impactful development in the coming years, Fiaz says. It combines residential, employment, and commercial components into one of the largest developments in Ontario. This makes this city even more connected via major highways, in addition to transit and rail, to jobs and shopping in York Region and Toronto.

The federally proposed Pickering Airport site is expected to spur significanteconomicdevelopmentandjobcreationinthe andacrossDurhamRegion.Thissignificantinfrastructurep will be the single largest economic catalyst and could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in new investment for aeronautic, transportation/logistics, high-tech, and other innovative sectors, says Fiaz. The City continues to listen to all stakeholders as those plans come together.

Considering moving your business to Pickering or simply wanting more clarity on a project or development proposal? Fiaz In 2019, Lakeridge Health began developing its master plan to and mapoutthenext25yearsofhealthcareinDurham.Itidentifi edhis team would love to tell you more about what makes the City of Pickering unique and to provide factual information. the need for a new acute care hospital to address the needs of the TheEconomicDevelopmentandStrategicProjectsOceishe community. The City of Pickering is proposing a site at Salem to provide accurate, up-to-date information to all residents and Road and Highway 407, which is being generously donated by a businesses. Call 905.420.4625 to talk about your future and how it local developer to Lakeridge Health. fitsinwiththisgrowing,vibrantcommunity.

The City recently invited residents to provide feedback on their experiences, hopes, and ideas for the Lake Ontario waterfront as it

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 25

Building Excellen

40 years of

S T O R Y B Y A N D P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F : Chestnut Hill Developments

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Since198ChestnutHillDevelopments has been building award-winning communitiesacrosstheGTA.Tofulfillour commitmenttooeringfine-qualityhomesin memorable settings at attainable prices, we conduct extensive market research. We ask the rightquestions,andevenmoreimportantly, we listen to and act on the answers.

WE ARE D E D I C AT E D T O L I F E Creating a warm and welcoming home is more than a business, it is a responsibility.

One that Chestnut Hill Developments takes to heart. It begins with asking people where they want to live, how they want to live and what theycanaordtocomfortablypay.Inshort, we encourage our future buyers to become our partners in this endeavor we call: LIFE.

O U R U LT I M AT E SUCCESS IS IN OUR B U Y E R S’ H A N D S

Many companies pledge to “Put the customer first,” but few live up to those lofty ideals.

At Chestnut Hill, before a shovel strikes the ground, we partner with our customers to guide them through the sometimes-murky waters of home buying. We provide them with Our customer-focused approach begins by free seminars to ensure they are comfortable choosingtherightplacetobuild,reflecting on with every step, every decision. We create the natural surroundings, the amenities, the Master-Planned communities with an eye schools and playgrounds. We feel that it is our to family liveability, convenient amenities, responsibility to ensure that future owners with room to grow and space to live. Our become neighbours and form a community dedication to quality, professionalism and where they can raise their families in the ongoing customer service is unmatched in the perfectplacewiththeongoingconfidencethat industry, and our previous buyers continue to they have made the right decision in choosing be our best form of advertising.

Chestnut Hill Developments.

UNIVERSAL CITY EAST Universal City East Condos are a new condo project by Chestnut Hill Developments. The new developments will be located along Bayly Street in Pickering. We invite you to join our family of satisfied,proud,andhappyhomeowners.

416-499-9995 | info@chestnuthillhomes.ca www.chestnuthilldevelopments.com 150 Ferrand Drive, Suite 801 Toronto, ON @ChesnutHillDev

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 27

Prs e x y t Ta r e p o

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roperty taxes are the City of Pickering’s main source of revenue in providing day-to- day services and programs to its residents, and also assists with capital funding. Did you know that the property taxes collected reflect a percentage of the assessed value of your property?

Learn more about how your property is assessed below.

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EXPLORING FUNDING SOURCES The City explores other sources of funding to help relieve the residential tax load and assist with providing a broad and diverse array of municipal services, programs, events, and critical infrastructure investments.

This includes actively seeking out and applying for funding from both the Provincial and Federal Governments and participating in available grant programs. The City also explores naming rights partnerships and is part of a Municipal Contribution Agreement with Ontario Lottery Gaming Corporation for the recently-opened Pickering Casino Resort.

In October 2021, the City received $2,439,573 foritsfirstshareofthecasinorevenues,as municipality. These revenues will be reinvested back into the community by funding a number of important capital projects. While payments are to be issued on a quarterly basis, this inaugural payment was for the compressed period of July 26th to September 30th, for when Pickering Casino Resort was operating at less than 50% capacity due to COVID-19 indoor gathering restrictions.

PROPERTY ASSESSMENT The Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) is responsible for assessing the value of your property.

In 2021, Pickering saw the lowest property tax increase in 20 years and also held the lowest tax rate of all Durham lakeshore municipalities.

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All property assessments in Pickering are available for viewing at Pickering City Hall and on MPAC’s website.

Property owners may apply to adjust taxes to reflectasignificantchangeintheirproperty assessment(i.e.demolitionorfire).

Visit MPAC.ca or AboutMyProperty.ca to learn more.

the discover

S T O R Y A N D P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F : Trafalgar Castle School

Research on student-teacher relationships is clear. Relationships matter. The strength of the relationship between teachers and studentsinfluencesstudentlearning overall well-being. When students feel known, when they believe their teacher F E R E N C E cares about them, and when the teacher rafalgar Castle is a place like no has time to cultivate and strengthen the other - one that cultivates skills, ignites relationship, students learn better. They curiosity, and brings your daughter into her feel more connected, more engaged, and own, whether she is an artist, an athlete, an are more open to feedback. At Trafalgar, intellectual, or a little of each. Capable and teachers work closely in partnership confident,ourgraduatesareexceptional to develop rigorous, high-quality and young women who know without question engaging curriculum that challenges every - their possibilities are endless. student to develop a strong foundation of core knowledge, essential skills, and a solid An all-girls’ day and boarding school understanding of herself as a learner. inspiring students in Grades 4 through 12, Trafalgar has been educating girls since 1874 Everyday Trafalgar students engage in within a warm and progressive community meaningful and authentic activities that thatoersexceptionalacademicsandafill full itsclassroomsandhallswithcurios life outside of the classroom. excitement, and insight.

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Its small-school advantage means they are agile enough to provide the most up-to-date learning environment, and intimate enough to cultivate a strong sense of belonging.

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For more information, please contact us: trafalgarcastle.ca admissions@trafalgarcastle.ca.

21-11-12 1:04 PM

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 29

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s the world grappled with an unprecedented global pandemic over the past two years, there emerged a rising consciousness around issues in equity, diversity and inclusion.

J AC LY N SAN ANT ONIO Senior Advisor, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Pickering 30 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

14,000 Pickering residents live with one or more disabilities. These are only a few of the demographic features that influencediversityinPickering,not including other aspects like gender, sexual orientation, faith, class, and language, among others, and further not accounting for the intersections among people’s varying identities and life experiences. Nevertheless, these demographics highlight the importance of accounting for the diverse needs, interests and experiences of stakeholders with an equity-based approach to government service and an overall vision to build and foster inclusive communities.

From the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement around the world; to the disproportionate rise of hate crimes against Asian communities scapegoated for COVID-19; to the tragic Islamophobic attack of a family out on an evening walk in London, Ontario; to growing accounts of unmarked graves of Indigenous children at former residential school To this end, the City of Pickering has sites across Canada, there has been no committed to developing a 10-year shortage of social problems demanding Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) transformative change. These events have Strategy. In 2020, an interdepartmental not only awakened the public to world steering committee was struck to inform issues but to their local realities. For the development of this strategy with governments like the City of Pickering, representation from Human Resources, these realities have prompted deeper theOceoftheCAO,CityDevelopment, reflectiononwaystobetterservediverse Community Services, Engineering communities.

Services, Fire Services, and Economic Development. Central to this process is The shifting focus on matters of equity, having an external consultant conduct an diversity and inclusion is particularly objective assessment of how existing City important for cities like Pickering that policies,practices,andprogramsreflect are on the cusp of dramatic urban equity, diversity and inclusion. This growth as new residential communities involves engaging Members of Council, like Seaton take shape while other seniormanagement,frontlinestaand developments around Durham Live and other community stakeholders through the City Centre move forward. As these interviews, focus groups, town changesinevitablycreateaninfluxofsurveys, new halls and other consultation methods to residents, employees, and visitors, so too identify existing gaps and recommend will the diversity of interests among these areas of opportunity to advance EDI community stakeholders increase. In at the City. This approach recognizes fact, the City’s population is expected to better serving diverse communities reach 150,000 residents by 2036, making must begin with improving the internal Pickering the most populous city in organizational structure, operations Durham Region. and culture of those responsible for that There are many ways to consider serviceinthefirstplace.Preliminary Pickering’s diversity. According to research has been underway since June the 2016 Census, a third of the city’s 2021 with results to be synthesized and population self-identify as “visible shared in 2022. minorities” with the largest representation Tosupporttheseeorts,theCityalso coming from South Asian, Black and created a new position of Senior Advisor, Filipino communities. Approximately Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and 66% of population growth in Pickering hired Jaclyn San Antonio in July 2021. is also attributed to immigration, further Jaclyn joined the City with more than shaping the diversity of residents through 15 years of experience in EDI-based newcomers. Additionally, Pickering research, education and community has an aging population compared to advocacy. Her work includes local and otherareasinDurhamRegion,reflected transnational research on topics such in the fact that residents aged 90 and as hate crimes, interpersonal violence, older tripled from 250 to 630 in the last and poverty; teaching social justice decade. Estimates also suggest that

Pickering’sPedestrianBridgelandss

courses at Ontario Tech University, and working with marginalized populations inthenon-profitsector,includingwork with Community Development Council Durham. Prior to joining the City, Jaclyn was also the Equity, Inclusion and Social Change Strategist at Centennial College where she led the development and implementation of the Equity and Inclusion Perspectives training program for more than 3,000 employees. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Social Justice Education at the University of Toronto. Jaclyn’s expertise in EDI combined with her understanding of the local context as a long-time resident of Durham Region will play an integral role in the development and implementation of the 10-year strategy.

Pickering recently made it into the Guinness World Records as home to the longest enclosed pedestrian bridge in the world.

It is important to recognize that these critical developments around the City’s Pickering’s fully enclosed landmark pedestrian bridge spans 14 lanes of Highway EDI strategy are not new but are instead 401, Canada’s busiest transportation link, interconnecting our main mobility hub with part of a more cohesive strategy to our emerging City Centre. Residents and commuters alike now enjoy safe, easy and consistently embed EDI principles and sheltered access to an integrated transportation network, shopping, services and home. practices in the City of Pickering moving The bridge continues to play a significant role in the dramatic transform forward. The City has already made City Centre, linking the Pickering GO Station to our Class ‘A’, LEED-Gold o ce t important strides in adopting equity, Centre for Canadian Nuclear Sustainability (CCNS) Innovation and Collaboration diversity and inclusion as a standards Space, Pickering Town Centre, new City Centre restaurants, and 500-vehicle GO for government service. For example, Transit parking deck. the City has been recognized with three David C. Onley Awards for Leadership in Accessibility in its service to people with disabilities. The City also established the Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce SHOW US WHY YOU ARE (PABRT) with a mandate to enhance the shared experience and opportunities aordedtoBlackresidentswhileguiding anti-Black racism initiatives. The PABRT’s work plan was endorsed by Council in September 2021 with priority areas around civic engagement, education, employment, health, justice, inclusive governance, and youth engagement.

Guinness World Records

This is Your City

#PickeringProud!

These examples are only a select sample of the City’s work around EDI. However, they are critical stepping stones in establishing equity, diversity and inclusion as part of standard organizational culture. Although the City has a long way to go, the foundations are there to support continued growth with a comprehensive EDI strategy that establishes priority areas, measurable outcomes and dedicated resources that ultimately contribute to the community’s collective well-being.

Pickering is a vibrant, connected, and engaged community and we want you to share your favourite moments and memories of the place you love to call home or visit.

Upload photos of yourself and loved ones enjoying all that Pickering has t round. Like, comment, and share – see what your neighbours are saying about their most cherished parks, trails, beaches, neighbourhoods, sports activities, celebrations, festivals, nature, and more.

Visit LetsTalkPickering.ca/PickeringProud to register and get involved! @CityofPickering Remember to follow us on social media for regular news and announcements.

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 31

Altona Towns C A N A D A’ S

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C O M M U N I T Y

S T O R Y B Y: Kimberly Brathwaite | P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F : Madhouse Advertising

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his spring, Elexicon Energy partnered with Marshall HomesandOpusOneSolutionsonthecountry’sfirst-ever preplanned nested microgrid community.

The microgrid community directly connects to one of our core strategic pillars which is innovation and is a great addition to the work that our sister company, Elexicon Group, does to support the needs of customers 32 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

The pilot project was a success not only because of the partnership, but also because of the funding support from the Ontario Ministry of Energy, under the Smart Grid and Grid Innovation Fund.

Elexicon Energy is proud to be a part of this project because ithelpsthemtoservecustomersinamoreecientandcos eectiveway,anditalsoalignswiththecompany’supgradin capacity that will result in positive outcomes for customers.

“The microgrid community directly connects to one of our core strategic pillars which is innovation and is a great addition to the work that our sister company, Elexicon Group, does to support the needs of customers,” says Norm Fraser, Interim CEO and President of Elexicon Energy.

“It was a perfect scenario for everyone involved Elexicon Energy, Opus One Solutions, Marshall Homes and the Ministry of Energy.”

“As a recognized leader in sustainability, the City of Pickering is proud to be the home of Canada’s first planned Smart Microgrid Community,” Construction began four years ago and everyone was excited to said Mayor Dave Ryan. “I commend Elexicon Energy, Marshall seethedreamcommunitycompletedandtofinallywelcome27 Homes, Opus One Solutions, and the Ministry of Energy for partnering homeowners to the property. It is located in the Finch Avenue in this visionary and landmark project. Together, we hope to inspire and Altona Road area in Pickering and has many state-of-the-art more residents, businesses, and communities to take innovative and features which includes rooftop solar panels, Tesla lithium-ion meaningful action in fighting climate change.” battery energy storage and electric vehicle charging stations for residents in the neighbourhood.

“Pickering is a great municipality for a sustainable community initiative.

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They just get it. From the top down they helped us along the way in Conor Soye moved into Altona Towns in April. So far Soye and getting things,” Craig Marshall, President of Marshall Homes. hisfiancéareveryhappywiththeirnewhomeanditsfeatures.

They think the concept of a microgrid is great and they love the factthattheygetthefeelingoflivingothegrid,butstillwithin acommunityoeringthecomfortsofthecity.

“Electricity bills are definitely lighter than I have had before, thanks to the microgrid. There are some really neat options with the Tesla Powerwall that we have in our unit,” Conor explains. “We are still on Time of Use electricity, but the Powerwall allows you to charge and store power during the Off Peak hours and run the house from the Powerwall during the On Peak/Mid Peak hours—essentially streamlining your power usage on the Off Peak pricing. There is a Storm Alert setting as well and that allows the unit to sense when storms are incoming so that the Powerwall can be fully charged and ready in the event of an outage with 100 percent backup power.

Really cool!”

T E C H N O L O G Y

W INS

As technology and electricity distribution changes, Elexicon Energy is happy to be an innovation thought-leader in the energy sector. The municipally owned utility will gather insights and lessons learned from the deployment, from the transmission station down to the local community.

The electricity for the microgrid connects to Elexicon Energy’s system and is facilitated through a new energy management software platform program called GridOS® developed by Opus One Solutions. This new system will allow Elexicon Energy operators and engineers to monitor and learn how and when electricity is used with homeowners in full control of their own power system, meaning they will be able to shift their energy consumption habits, eventually saving money on their utility bill while safeguarding against power outages to their home through the energy that is stored on an integrated battery system either in their home and/or as part of the microgrid community.

Pickering is a great municipality for a sustainable community initiative. They just get it. From the top down they helped us along the way in getting things

Thisprojectalsooeredeveryoneanopportunitytohelp environment and create a housing option that would decrease the reliance on traditional forms of power. As a business, Elexicon Energyiscommittedtofindingandusingnewtechnologiest leave our planet in better condition than it was found; at least that’s the goal.

“With climate change a key concern in our era, Elexicon Energy is looking to develop an industry model for a smart grid, with the hopes this project will increase energy distribution reliability and contribute to net zero emissions targets for Canada by enabling wide-scale smart grid implementation in the near future,” said Falguni Shah, VicePresident of Technology and Innovation at Elexicon Energy.

Elexicon Energy looks forward to more opportunities to expand itspresenceinthemicrogridspaceandfindingsustainab energy solutions for all customers in the future.

“Opus One Solutions is thrilled to have partnered with Elexicon Energy, an innovative and forward-thinking Utility provider, to develop a smart community microgrid in Pickering, Ontario that will act as a blueprint for the future of Seaton community in Pickering that could house up to 15,000 homes,” says Hari Suthan,ChiefStrategicGrowthOcer,OpusOneSolutions.

By 2031, the population of Pickering is expected to grow from 94,000 to 190,000 residents . The City of Pickering is one of the most sought-after cities in the region and the perfect place toexploreanddevelopnewsmarttechnologiesthatbenefit homeowners and the city.

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 33

Pickering

Planning and Development in P

ickeringisslatedforsignificanteconomicandresidential The Planning Process growth.

Planning in Ontario is governed by the provincial Planning Act, Some of the transformational projects currently shaping Pickering which is the Act that gives authority to Municipal Councils to are City-initiated, and others are proposed by developers. deal with Planning matters.

Did you know, that as a municipality, we are mandated to receive and process every application that comes through our doors?

The Planning Act also requires each regional and local area municipalitytohaveanOcialPlantoguidebothlanduse growthinthelocalmunicipalities.ThisOcialPlanprovi alanddevelopmentvisionfortheCityandidentifieshow vision can be achieved.

The mandated planning process allows the City to consult with impacted agencies, engage with the public, and review every development application thoroughly. At the end of the process, stamakeaprofessionalrecommendationtoCouncilbase data, analysis, evaluation of key criteria, input from the public and implementation of policy.

Guiding Growth This should not be confused with endorsement. We rely on ourprofessionalsta,andtherigorousplanningprocess The Province sets out how and where growth in the Greater they oversee, to guide the decisions made on each and every Golden Horseshoe is to occur through the Growth Plan (A development application submitted. We also rely on you, Place to Grow). Durham Region has been allocated certain the public, to provide input and comments. The more you growth targets that are then further distributed to the lower-tier participate in this process, the more we are able to build a city municipalities in Durham, based on a detailed growth study and thatreflectsourcollectivevision.Anditisthroughthisprocess in accordance with the guiding policy framework of the Growth of collaboration and consultation that we will build a city that Plan. The most growth is directed to existing established areas, in works for all.

Aerial view of Pickering’s waterfront

34 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

particular, areas that are well-served by transit like major arterial roads and areas around GO Train Stations. In addition to these “strategic growth areas,” the Province has further designated the Pickering City Centre as an Urban Growth Centre in the Growth Plan. These areas are intended to accommodate even greater proportions of population and employment growth.

application. The planning process works and it is critical that you be active and engaged in it. By doing so, you are helping us keep control over the decisions that shape our city.

In the long term, the bulk of Pickering’s growth will take place in the Seaton community which has been planned to accommodate 60,000 to 70,000 new residents, 35,000 jobs, and will have a comprehensive open space system. Construction has been steadily progressing in the southernmost area of Seaton, which you can see when driving along Taunton Road.

All residents of Pickering are stakeholders in the development process. You play a critical role in helping us accommodate growth responsibly and making Pickering be a place we are proud to call home. From public open houses, to social media, resident mail-outs, council meetings, and more – there are lots of ways to learn about the development process and get involved.

Get started at LetsTalkPickering.ca/Development where we break down what you need to know, including our latest Speaker Series where we invite Canadian industry experts to join us in the conversation around thoughtful growth.

Appealing Council’s Decision

Community Engagement

At the end of the planning process, our hope is that we make adecisionthatreflectsthecollectivevisionandvalues Allactive ofour developmentproposalsforOcialPlanAmendmen city. That said, every developer has the right to appeal Council’s Zoning By-law Amendments, Draft Plan of Subdivision, and decision on a planning application to the Ontario Land Tribunal; Draft Plan of Condominium are listed online with public the agency responsible for hearing and deciding appeals and feedback opportunities. matters related to land use planning, environmental and Visit pickering.ca/DevApp for details. natural features and heritage protection, land valuation, land compensation,municipalfinance,andrelatedmatters.

The City must be prepared to defend its position at this tribunal, and, as such, that is why we can’t outright reject a development

Aerial view of Pickering’ City Hall

Did you know, once all planned growth is completed, over 50% of Pickering will remain green.

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 35

Spotlight

Catherine Rose, Chief Planner C I T Y

1

O F

P I C K E R I N G

Tell us a bit about your educational and professional background? I graduated from the

University of Waterloo in 1979, with a Bachelor of Environmental Studies (Honours Geography), and did some recreation planning fortheTownofInnisfil.

In 1983, I was hired by the City of Pickering to review the parkingspacerequirementsfordierenttypesoflanduses, and became Planner I working on statistics, policy and special studies, the following year. In 1988, I became a Planner II in the Policy and Information Division, and in 1990 was promoted to Manager, Policy, specializing in long range land use planning policy. Finally, in 2013, I became the City’s Chief Planner, overseeing the Planning & Design Division.

2

Why did you get involved in city planning?

I love geography – “people and their relationship with their environment,” including physical, social and economic.

Geography is about a site or a place: it’s about the characteristics of a site or place and where it is, relative to the broader geographic area.

I saw a strong connection between my love of geography, and how getting involved in city planning would allow me to apply the urban, physical and resource management aspects of my education. Cities and the places within them are constantly evolving. Planning is a way to have input into the design and direction of that change.

3

What are the obvious indicators of a wellplanned city? A well-planned city can be compared

5

You’ve lived in Pickering for some time now and have personally and professionally witnessedPickering’sevolution.Howdoyou see it evolving over the next 20 years? I’ve lived in

to a healthy body. A city should protect and enhance its lungs Pickering since 1983. The concerns from residents at that time, are – the natural heritage systems, features and functions. It has a very similar to those of today’s residents. I’ve watched properties strong heart with a sense of place/identity. It strives to maintain develop, redevelop and are looking to reinvent themselves again. a functional set of internal organs with services and facilities Thenext20yearswillseethecontinuedintensificationan that support the people that live, work and play in the city. mixing of uses in our urban centre, supported by a modernized The brain explores healthy choices and variety in its ranges of public transportation system along Kingston Road. Most of the development.Acity’smusclesarereflectedinitsinfrastructure Seaton community will be built out, and shovels will likely be in - making it easy to get around by all modes of travel. The city’s the ground in Northeast Pickering. spirit should respect its history and historic resources.

I’m an avid supporter of the arts and look forward to the Howdoyouplaneectivelyforagrowing completion and enjoyment of the new Performing Arts Centre, as community? Land use planning and development well as the Seniors & Youth Centre, the Central Library, and the is, and always will be challenging. It requires a tremendous Public Square, which will bring an increased vitality to the City coordinatedeortbetweenadiversegroupofplayers.ToCentre. planeectivelyforagrowingcommunity,allstakeholdersmust Last, but not least, I foresee enhanced sustainable design and contribute to the discussion, be educated on legislated requirements, construction standards being integrated in future development be respective of community history and environmental impacts, across the city. identify future needs, and be open to the desires of all those Read the full interview at LetsTalkPickering.ca/Development impacted by change.

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36 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

Pickering's

Continuing

S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y

J O U R N E Y

O

ver the years, Pickering has aimed to incorporate sustainability into all aspects of decision-making.

Amidst the pandemic, the City has worked to support local businesses in many ways, including through the award-winning Pickering City Centre Farmers’ Market. The TheseeortshavegrownandevolvedbutCity promoted a Virtual Farmers’ Market in remaingroundedinve fi objectives:Healthy the spring to help residents connect online Environment, Healthy Economy, Healthy with local farmers, bakers, and artisans. This Society, Responsible Development, and was followed by a unique in-person weekly Responsible Consumption. This includes market with a wide range of vendors. delivering a variety of award-winning initiatives throughout the community In addition to engaging with our community, focused on engagement and education, the City strives to help enhance the natural will dramatically reduce paper waste and sustainable development, local food, natural environment that provides ecological, health, make it more convenient for applicants. environment, energy, waste, and climate and recreational value to the community. change.

These actions include restoration projects Pickering was also selected to undertake a to help restore the urban tree canopy, help Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment Pickering is committed to building a pollinators, and initiatives such as the LEAF Project with ICLEI Canada Local connected, inclusive, and sustainable Backyard Tree Planting program.

Governments for Sustainability. This project community through a diverse mix will help Pickering to further evaluate risks of engagement opportunities with The City aims to lead by example by and impacts to the community from climate residents, schools, businesses and the working to improve our facilities through change and to create a local adaptation development industry. This collaborative strategic energy and waste-diversion strategy. approachisreflectedininitiativeslike projects. This includes installing circuitthe Environmental Schools Grant, Park level monitoring technology at City Continuing the important work around Stewardship Program, Mayors’ Monarch facilitiesthathelpstatomonitorenergy sustainable development, the City received Pledge, Take Pride in Pickering Day, and the usage, identify energy-saving opportunities, funding from the Atmospheric Fund Sustainable Seaton: Community-Building and set performance targets. As well, to and Region of Durham to develop new Series.Theseeortswererecentlyhonoured help reduce waste and increase diversion Integrated Sustainable Design Standards. by the Ontario Parks Association who across our facilities, the City installed Oncenalized fi andapprovedthestandards awarded the City of Pickering with the 2021 165 user-friendly waste receptacles and will help ensure new development is Protecting Tomorrow Today® Community implemented initiatives such as paperless constructedinamannerthatreflects EngagementAwardforitseortsin permit applications. With more than 2,000 innovative sustainable best practices and sustainability. permits being received last year alone, this technology of today.

These initiatives do not fully encompass Pickering’s sustainable journey, however, they highlight a few key areas. There are many fun and inspiring ways to make our lives and community more sustainable.

Whether you decide to join a free educational workshop during Pickering’s Earth Month, conduct a litter cleanup, or join a community tree planting event, we encourage you to get involved and nd fi yourownwaytomakeameaningful impact in the community.

Visit pickering.ca/sustainable to learn more about how we are working towards becoming one of the most sustainable cities in Canada!

Your City Magazine - Issue 2 | 37

Haveyouseenthe

NEWLY-RENO CHESTNUT HILL DEVELOPMENTS R E C R E AT I O N C O M P L E X ?

T

he Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex hosts a wide range of recreational programs and activities for the whole family. As such, after almost 40 years of service, the facility and many of its components, systems, and key amenities were agedanddueforasubstantialretrofit.

The City completed major renovations in 2021 to give this popular facility the upgrade it required. The project included a complete gut renovation of the existing male and female change rooms for both members and non-members, extension of the secondfloorexerciseareaandrelatedimprovements,upgrades toexistingfinishesthroughoutthegroundfloorofthelobbyand concourse, and consolidation of existing service counters into a single point of service. Additional related work such as lifecycle water main replacements and upgrades to building life safety systemswerealsoincorporatedforeciency.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS ON CHANGE ROOM RENOVATIONS The public change rooms were combined into a single universal change room and linked with the existing family change room to create a new single suite. All changing will occur in private change cubicles with zero-sightline partitions to ensure privacy for all patrons. Several universal washrooms were included for use by all patrons, regardless of age or gender, and meet all current accessibility regulations.

Two new members change rooms were also created, sharing access to a new accessible-entry whirlpool, steam, and dry saunas.

38 | Your City Magazine - Issue 2

Pickering Museum Village 2022 Program Preview Izzy & The Mystery at the Mill Drive Thru Tour

The Anne Experience: Mother’s Day Edition

Tea & Talk: Pickering’s Roaring 1920s

Pickering’s Past Guided Tour

March Break $20 per vehicle

Saturday April 30 & Sunday May 1 $25 per person

Saturday May 7 & Sunday May 8 $40 per person Starting April 30 $60 per group

Register ahead by phone at 905.683.8401 or by QR code below.

pickeringmuseumvillage.ca

@pickeringmuse

WE’RE HIRING

FULL-TIME • PART-TIME • SEASONAL Visit the Job Help Centre at Guest Services or apply online at pickeringtowncentre.com