Letter from the editor
Hey everyone!
Oh Canada -
I’m super excited to share the newest edition of NewsMarket with you!
Flip through the pages and check out Town Timbits where we’re shining a spotlight on just a few of the many incredible accomplishments and progress made across the Town so far this year. You’ll find plenty to be proud of— and maybe even recognize a familiar face or two!
And don’t miss our new interactive game—because what’s a newsletter without a little fun, right? This edition features a new challenge and might just score you some sweet bragging rights. Grab your double-double, settle in and enjoy the NewsMarket!
Happy summer!
Marisa Iannelli Communications Coordinator
A Double Double W h
CHRISTIAN STIPETIC, Economic Development Coordinator
What makes you proud to be in Canada?
People sacrificed a lot to be here, and I’m proud of our sense of community and the way we show up for one another. Whether it's supporting backing local businesses, supporting newcomers or cheering on our beloved hockey teams, there's this shared spirit of togetherness when we all join in.
What’s your favourite Canadian food or dish, and why?
Poutine with peameal bacon. It’s just a classic, with some added protein. It’s my favourite thing to eat after hitting the slopes or skating on the pond. (Editor's note: It doesn't get any more Canadian than that!)
What’s your go-to Tim Hortons order and do you defend it with your life?
Currently, it’s a co ee with milk. I don’t defend it - because I like changing it up!
Which one is the superior chip: Ketchup or All-Dressed?
Tough question. All-Dressed for the long term.
You’re on a walk during lunch on the Tom Taylor Trail and you encounter a Canada goose, what do you do?
Don’t make eye contact. Go wide.
Do you own a Roots sweatsuit?
Unfortunately no, but I suppose it’s time to invest.
How do you Choose Local?
Local music, local co ee and local foods. Saturday mornings are great for shopping, whether it’s at the Newmarket Farmers' Market, or my local Stou ville Market. I love discovering new opportunities to buy local, and my latest fixation is locally roasted espresso beans. When it comes to music the big concerts are fun, but my favourite is finding the intimate venues that serve those local brews.
Captain's Call: Team Newmarket
Hello everyone,
Welcome to the 85th volume of NewsMarket, a publication near and dear to my heart because it celebrates team Newmarket! We are a special bunch with unique jobs and talents that we bring to work each day with a collective goal to make Newmarket even better. This issue is extra special as we’re celebrating what it means to be “Proud to be in Canada” something I am personally grateful for.
To me, Canadian pride is about embracing the uniqueness of our society with a collective pride and celebrating it constantly. What sets us apart is:
• Universal health care demonstrating our compassion and care for one another
• Our e orts to embrace our di erences, celebrate diversity and respect people’s unique histories
• That we continue to be proud, yet humble about our natural resources and stunning landscapes
• Our talented people who innovate and create on a world stage delivering inventions and sharing comedic, artistic, and athletic talents
Most of all, it's our level of grit and competitive spirit – whether it's on the ice rink or on the world stage as peacekeepers. We're always prepared to roll up our sleeves and put our elbows up!
As proud as I am to be Canadian, I’m just as proud to be on Team Newmarket! For the past 22 years, I’ve witnessed how special Team Newmarket truly is and I continue to be blown away by our ability to make positive, tangible change that influences the quality of life for our residents and businesses.
There is so much happening that is transforming the community right now. From Mulock Park’s construction, to the fast-emerging new community brand, to the successful launch of the Town’s Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) processing centre and growing municipal partnerships - just to name a few. One extra special accomplishment that we all share in is winning the National Inspiring Work Place Award from the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators (CAMA) for the Leadership Essentials Program.
And that’s just the beginning! Stay tuned for the community brand launch, the first summer Main Street pedestrian event and best of all, the long-awaited NEW Town website, portal and interactive app – it is going to be awesome!
With all the excitement going on at work, please be sure to take deserved and hard-earned vacation time to pursue your hobbies and passions. After all, we all only get one trip on this spinning rock so make time to share with your loved ones and create memories that will last a lifetime.
On behalf of SLT, thank you for your continued dedication, work ethic and constant drive to find new and innovative ways to get the job done. If you have an idea, or would like to chat, please know I am here for YOU. You can also send me a quick note at cao@newmarket.ca Cheers,
In Loving Memory of Cindy Wackett
For more than 20 years, Cindy was a dedicated member of team Newmarket, the biggest cheerleader of the Town and everyone around her. Cindy began her Newmarket career in the Planning department before transitioning to Continuous Improvement/Innovation and Strategic Initiatives where she helped to launch many very significant projects and initiatives. Cindy always had the biggest smile and her positive energy was infectious. As a founding member of the Newmarket Toastmasters, her friends in Toastmasters will always remember her heartfelt connections. She was the embodiment of what it means to lead with love – by lifting others, creating opportunities and leaving the world better than she found it. Cindy’s bright light will always live on and she will continue to inspire all of us who were lucky enough to call her a colleague and friend.
Ian McDougall
Town TimB s
FROM ICE STORMS TO SNOWSTORMS –FRONTLINE STAFF TO THE RESCUE!
Winter didn’t hold back, hitting us with 54 snow events that included 171 cm of snow and TWO ice storms! Our Roads and Water & Wastewater teams were ready for the challenge. They hauled away 735 loads of snow - that’s 4,410 tonnes. To keep roads safe and slip-free, they spread 70 tonnes of salt – that’s approximately the weight of 12 full-grown elephants.
After the recent ice storm in March, Newmarket staff from the Forestry team were on the ground in Peterborough County to lend a hand and assist with storm cleanup operations.
Thank you to all the amazing frontline staff in both PWS & PFS for taking on each storm like true winter warriors!
– Marianne Mosquera, Public Works Services
A FRIENDLY COMPETITION
In true Canadian fashion, the Town of Newmarket hit the ice in a hockey game against Town of Aurora staff that was full of friendly competition, big fun and even bigger plays.
We’re thrilled to say that Team Newmarket skated away with the win! A big thank you to everyone who came out to play and cheer on the teams.
COMMUNITY BRANDING
Over the past 9 months, Stewart, Executive Vice President of Brand Strategy at MMGY has made his second home in Newmarket. He engrained himself in Newmarket to tap into the community and discover what Newmarket is made of one conversation at a time. He’s sat in coffee shops and pubs, attended events and spoke with nearly 200 residents. These conversations, combined with responses from over 500 residents and employees in an online survey, and 500 nonNewmarket residents throughout the GTA, have all helped in shaping the community brand. We are still finalizing launch plans but look forward to sharing the brand with staff in the coming months!
Thank you to everyone who helped support this big initiative!
– Elizabeth Hawkins, Community & Economic Innovation
GAME, SET, MATCH: A NEW ERA BEGINS AT KEITH DAVIS TENNIS CENTRE
The Newmarket Tennis Club’s first indoor season at the Keith Davis Tennis Centre launched in November 2024 and quickly became a success. With 8 courts open daily and 800 memberships sold in just four days, demand was high. By season’s end, 875 members and 1,100 guests had taken to the courts. Group lessons hit 98% capacity with 938 sign-ups, and court usage averaged 90%. The club was recognized with the Ontario Tennis Association’s Outstanding Club Achievement Award for the 2024/2025 indoor season.
Now that the indoor season has wrapped, the tennis bubble has been taken down and the facility will operate as an outdoor-only venue from May through October. The Newmarket Community Tennis Club will manage operations during this time. The spring season includes two additional outdoor courts and a new clubhouse opening in June 2025. This fall, the club will host the 3-day OFSAA tournament, welcoming student-athletes from across Ontario.
A new era of tennis is in full swing in Newmarket! – Jacqueline Woodru , Recreation and Culture
WATER TEAM’S CLEAN SWEEP: FOUR YEARS OF PERFECT SCORES!
For the fourth year in a row (yes, fourth!), our amazing Water & Wastewater team crushed it with a perfect 100% on their Annual Water Quality Audit from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP)! Their perfect score highlights their ongoing effort to ensure our water is both clean and safe.
–
Marianne Mosquera, Public Works Services
INTRODUCING SMARTPASS: YOUR LIBRARY CARD, NOW ON YOUR PHONE!
Never forget your library card again! With Newmarket Library’s new SmartPass, you can download your library card directly to your iPhone or Android Wallet. Whether you're checking out books at the Library or using our Library on the Go Kiosks at Magna Centre and Ray Twinney, SmartPass makes it quick and convenient. It’s perfect for anyone who prefers the ease of carrying their card on their phone. Ready to go digital?
Visit NewmarketPL.ca/SmartPass to get started!
– David di Giovanni, Newmarket Public Library
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NATALIE KWAN, Zoning Examiner
What makes you proud to be in Canada?
Canada’s breathtaking nature never fails to amaze me—whether it’s vibrant autumn colors or frozen lakes perfect for skating. And the people? Some of the kindest you’ll ever meet. It’s home in every sense.
What’s your favourite Canadian food or dish, and why?
Cinnamon apple Beavertail is my guilty pleasure! Crispy, airy, and just the right amount of sweetness—it’s impossible to eat just one.
What’s your go-to Tim Hortons order and do you defend it with your life?
Steep tea double-double with a plain croissant—uncomplicated and always hits the spot.
Which one is the superior chip: Ketchup or All-Dressed?
Ketchup! I’ll take ketchup chips, ketchup popcorn, and unapologetically drown my fries and burgers in ketchup.
You’re on a walk during lunch on the Tom Taylor Trail and you encounter a Canada goose, what do you do?
First, assess the situation. Is it eyeing me suspiciously? If so, I nod in respect and keep my distance. If it starts moving toward me, I accept my fate and prepare for a dignified retreat. Geese don’t mess around.
Do you own a Roots sweatsuit?
It’s my go-to cozy outfit, especially in fall and winter. Nothing beats lounging in a comfy sweatsuit on a chilly weekend.
How do you Choose Local?
Supporting small businesses, shopping at farmers’ markets, and choosing Canadian brands whenever I can. Whether it’s fresh produce, handmade goods, or local cafés, I love keeping the community thriving.
WHO’S ERIC?
ERIC isn’t the name of that well connected colleague you should seek out – rather, it’s a group of employees from across the organization who collectively advocate for sta . ERIC is the Employee Relations & Internal Communications committee, an important sta committee that’s been around for over twenty years.
ERIC is a non-management group of Town employees who represent and communicate with sta to provide recommendations to Town leadership on policies and initiatives. ERIC can confidentially raise concerns to leadership and also administers the Employee Assistance Fund.
EMERGENCIES HAPPEN, ERIC CAN HELP!
When an emergency or crisis strikes you or your family, the Employee Assistance Fund can help! Since 2009 sta have been raising funds to help fellow employees in times of need. It’s part of our culture to care for and be there for one another. The fund is confidentially administered by ERIC. Town Sta can apply for funds (typically around $500) for yourself, or on behalf of a colleague. Applications are reviewed exclusively by the ERIC co-chairs and, if approved, recipients will receive funds in an expediated and confidential way.
Thank you for supporting fellow employees! This spring you showed up big, helping to raise almost $6,000 at the ERIC fundraising events:
• Hello Spring! Breakfast raised over $800
• Plant Sale $5,183
Your contributions make the Employee Assistance Fund possible. New this year, we’re expanding ways to support sta , such as through the holiday gift card giveaway.
A special shout out to the greenhouse sta – Adam, Jean, Brad, Ronnie, Ty, Hannah, Grace and Kait – who nurture and grow the amazing plants now brightening our homes and gardens.
REACH OUT TO ERIC!
Reach out if you have questions, feedback, comments, an idea for new ways we can support employees or want more information about the Employee Assistance Fund. Plus, we're looking for sta to join the committee! You can reach out to a member of the committee or contact the Committee Chair at ERIC@Newmarket.ca or call ext. 2333
BUILDING A VIBRANT FUTURE FOR NEWMARKET
Work on the Official Plan update and the South of Davis Area (SODA) Study is well under way. In February 2025, the Town hosted a Virtual Public Meeting to discuss key policy directions for the Official Plan. So far, more than 300+ people attended all engagement events!
In March, Planning hosted two public open houses for SODA to discuss the emerging vision, guiding principles and present the draft policy directions. Both projects have received tremendous feedback and community engagement to date and are currently in Phase 3 – where key policy directions are being discussed and refined. Once complete, both studies will help guide a vibrant and resilient future for Newmarket. Learn more about the projects at HeyNewmarket.ca/NewmarketOp and HeyNewmarket.ca/SODA
– Andria
Sallese, Planning and Development
CYFS HELPING TO SHAPE THE FUTURE OF FRONTLINE WELLNESS
Making Waves in Washington—and Back Home Central York Fire Services has been selected as one of only 17 departments across North America to join the Wellness Fitness Initiative (WFI) Task Force and — and is now one of just 10 official case study sites. The WFI is a collaborative effort through the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) and the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) to improve firefighter health, longevity, and performance.
On May 21 and 22, the Task Force visited CYFS for a presentation and interviews. We’re proud and excited to contribute to the ongoing development of how the WFI will be shaped and shared with departments across Canada and the USA.
– Thomas Johnston (TJ), Central York Fire Services
MULOCK PARK CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Construction season is in full swing and our most significant capital project –Mulock Park - is buzzing with activity with about
100 workers on site each workday. By the end of the summer, you’ll see new trees growing on Mulock Drive, the entry bridge and riverine fountain at the corner of Yonge and Mulock will take shape and the new building exteriors will be taking their final form, along with the Natural Discovery Playscape. A new Yonge Street Parking Lot is nearly complete, making use of the vacant space under the hydro towers. Work continues to restore, rebuild and strengthen Mulock House, transforming the 150 year-old private home into a public space for the community to enjoy.
This season and into the fall, you’ll see heavy landscaping take shape, with the final new plantings potentially being completed in spring 2026. Our focus in re-naturalizing the park has been to select native plant species that grow naturally in the wild in this region, thrive in local conditions, and support native animals, birds, and insects.
Historically, the Mulock family’s prized peonies would soon be in full bloom this time of year and a party would be timed to admire them. The peony plants from the property are currently being cared for in a temporary on-site nursery, to be replanted at the park next spring.
Outside of construction, we’re working on programming the park, branding, signage and much more as we prepare to open next year. Check out HeyNewmarket.ca/MulockPark for more construction updates.
– The Mulock Park Project Team
SECURITY SUCCESS: SPAM IS OUT, SAFETY IS IN
Did you know that Mimecast helps protect us from bad actors? We as staff don’t even see the 40% of emails that come to our inboxes daily. Over the last year (May 2024 to April 2025) the Town has received a total 3,428,200 incoming emails, 1,394,623 rejections and 2,033,597 legitimate incoming emails. Approximately 40% of emails sent to us were blocked as spam, and/or malicious! During the same time period, Newmarket staff sent 714,412 outgoing emails and received 2,970,809 emails!
– Tania Ferus, Information Technology
2025 CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPAL ADMINISTRATORS (CAMA) MUNICIPAL INSPIRING WORKPLACE AWARD
Awarded for the Town’s Leadership Essentials program, which brings to life our vision to create an environment for extraordinary public service
BURLINGTON CUP
Recognized by the Lifesaving Society for offering the largest Lifesaving swim program for a population of under 100,000 in all of Ontario.
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Recognized by the Ontario Tennis Association for a tennis club that has fostered the growth of tennis within a Community for our first year of operating the indoor Keith Davis Tennis Centre.
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR’S ONTARIO HERITAGE AWARD FOR THE POSTMARK HOTEL
With help from Planning & Building staff and members of the Heritage Newmarket Advisory Committee, The Postmark Hotel was recognized for the care and adaptive reuse of this historical building
Find the Employee Assistance Fund application on the ERIC Committee page
ERIC Members: Simon Granat (Chair), Adam Davies, Amber Blackburn, Tammy Chung, Joan Shaw, Michelle Antoci, Rebecca Gregoire and Keerthi Ravi.
FORESTRY
Great job guys!!
– Ashley E on Facebook (about Forestry lending a hand in Peterborough County)
CHOOSE LOCAL
Newmarket is where it’s at – @azhar_drivinginstructor on Instagram
Love Newmarket
– @thefrozenjazzis on Instagram
PLANNING
Checking out the South of Davis Area (SODA) Open House at the Old Town Hall today. I was excited to speak to like-minded residents as well as town experts. Overall, it was an amazing learning experience and a pleasure to talk to such passionate people in our fantastic Town of Newmarket
– Rod O on Facebook
I can't wait to see what is going to happen in that part of town!
– Andrew T on Facebook (about the South of Davis Area)
RECREATION AND CULTURE
Shoutout to everyone who pitched in to keep Newmarket clean—it’s e orts like this that make the community stronger. We’re proud to be part of a town that leads by example. Big thanks to all who made it happen!
– @redrooster_bbq on Instagram (about the Community Cleanup)
Newmarket has so many fun events. – @dlcarthew on Instagram
Tell me you’re an amazing town without telling me you’re an amazing town
Well done @townofnewmarket and the @mainstreetnewmarket – @darcytoombs on Instagram (about Ice Lounge on Main)
Newmarket's Main Street is absolutely magical right now! Just spent the day at the Ice Lounge on Main festival, and it was so beautiful. Loved the ice sculptures, the cozy fire pits , and all the festive cheer. Highly recommend checking it out! – @maghdam6165 on Instagram
PUBLIC WORKS SERVICES
Our neighbourhood sidewalks were just done and no windrow from the plow.
GREAT JOB, Thank you
– Ruth W on Facebook
Our sidewalks were cleaned up beautifully yesterday afternoon . Thanks to your team.
WHY EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION (EDI) MATTERS
EDI is more than a passing trend. It's a response to the current social, economic, and cultural realities – and organizations that prioritize EDI today are building stronger foundations for tomorrow.
Here are some of the ways the Town's Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Advocacy (IDEA) Group put EDI front and centre:
• Honouring over 90 culturally significant dates through the Town’s Days of Significance framework –visit BuzzHub.Newmarket.ca under Sta Updates and Shoutouts to explore meaningful observances and deepen your awareness.
– Carolyn W on Facebook
Thank you for all your hard work – Jackie A on Facebook
Thanks to all working so hard and tirelessly to clean up after this extraordinary snowfall!
– Annie M on Facebook
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
What a great way to connect Recreational Sport and Physical activity with programs within the Newmarket community Town of Newmarket!!!!!
– Sport Aurora on Facebook (about Navigate Newmarket)
PARKS & FACILITY SERVICES
AMAZING
– @fierce_fit_jj.nutrition on Instagram (about the Canada Flag image on the rink at Riverwalk Commons)
Thank you for a great skating season. Outstanding job by all sta members, especially this week as they tried to save the ice for the kids.
– Jen RN on Facebook
This has been such a great winter for skating. I go by Riverwalk everyday and just love to see the activity. Thank you Town of Newmarket. We have been several times skating.
– Carolyn W on Facebook
Hockey
• Participating in the #EndHate campaign developed by the Municipal Diversity and Inclusion Group (MDIG) in York Region
• Helping to organize the Town’s involvement in the annual York Pride parade, including the Trans March at 3 p.m. and the Pride Parade at 6 p.m. – a hub of pride, connection and excitement happening on Saturday, June 21.
• Champion sta learning by advocating for diversity-focused education and training opportunities across the organization.
You can continue to learn and stay connected by regularly visiting the Equity, Diversity & Inclusion page on BuzzHub. Bringing our authentic selves to work creates psychological safety, which is a critical component to a healthy, happy and productive workforce.
WANT TO GET INVOLVED?
To get started, email DiversityEquityInclusion@Newmarket.ca
Oh, Camera!
Photos in the gallery are from the Great Newmarket Snow Storm, Ice Lounge on Main, Connor McDavid Square Spring Luncheon & Plant Sale, Team Newmarket Hockey Game, and Touch A Truck.