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NEWS

Quick Index (click  ▲ to return to Index)

PLEASE NOTE: The TOPCA website is in transition as part of a redesign.  If you have landed on this (older) webpage, please click to view the new TOPCA Home Page.  Items on this (older) News page will be restructured to the following new webpages: Issues; Parks; Development and District Plan.

PORT CREDIT DISTRICT

• Port Credit District Policies Review
• A Vision for Port Credit: Pictorial Presentation and Discussion
• Developing Our 100 Acres: An Urban Design Panel on Port Credit
• Ramping-up the Port Credit Vision
• Port Credit Local Advisory Panel
• SUMMER WALKABOUT:  Click here for a 109-slide photo album of points of interest in Port Credit this summer, which partly illustrates the items below.  Last updated August 27, 2010.

DEVELOPMENT

• 'No-Frills' site
• Port Credit Post Office site
• 'Briarwood' site
• Pioneer Gas site
• Ann and High Streets site
• Proposed Lakeshore Walmart (or Target)
• FRAM / Slokker North Property (15 Hurontario St. at Lakeshore Road)

HERITAGE

• Port Credit Memorial Arena
• Port Credit Post Office Site
• Hatchery Proposal for Heritage Pumping Station
• Ridgetown (sunken freighter in the Harbour)

ENVIRONMENT

• Natural Gas-fired Power Plants in Mississauga South
• Credit River Parks Strategy

TRANSPORTATION

• Hurontario Main Street Study (Rapid Transit)
• Lakeshore / Stavebank Intersection
• GO Transit - Third Line

BOATING AND FISHING

• Hatchery Proposal for Heritage Pumping Station
• Port Credit Boat Launch (Marina Park)
• Ridgetown (sunken freighter in the Harbour)

WALKING AND BIKING

• Mississauga Cycling Advisory Committee (MCAC)
• Shifting Gears – Cycling Master Plan Review
• Promoting a Walking and Biking Culture in Port Credit and Mississauga South
• YouTube video re: Cycling in Port Credit on Waterfront Trail
• Contested Streets: Breaking the Gridlock (Movie)
• TOPCA Bicycle Planter Project
• TOPCA Cycling Tour of Port Credit

PARKS

• Waterfront Parks Strategy
• Credit River Parks Strategy
• Port Credit Boat Launch (Marina Park)
• Brueckner Rhododendron_Gardens (formerly Cranberry Cove Park)
• Snow Clearing of Paths in the Waterfront Parks
• Outdoor Skating at Memorial Park
• Saddington Stargazers Group
• YouTube video re: Cycling in Port Credit on Waterfront Trail
• Port Credit Polar Bear Club
• Ben Machree Park Playground Replacement
• Lions Park

PUBLIC SPACES

• Port Credit Memorial Arena
• Port Credit Library
• Port Credit Lighthouse
• Lions Hall and Outdoor Pool
• Hatchery Proposal for Heritage Pumping Station

MAINSTREET / BUSINESS DISTRICT

• Farmers' Market
• Port Credit Library mainstreet sign
• Proposed Walmart

ARTS AND CULTURE

• Arts and Culture Master Plan Review
• Graffiti in Port Credit
• Port Credit Public Mural Project
• Tree Stump Transformations
• Port Credit - The Projects (Art Exhibition)
• TOPCA Painted Bicycle Project (Public Art)

CITY OF MISSISSAUGA

• 1% Infrastructure Property Tax Levy
• BC21 Project: Our Future Mississauga

REGION OF PEEL

• Recycling
• Watermain Projects in Ward 1, 2009-2010

Port Credit District Policies Review   ▲

• All residents of Port Credit are invited to take part in discussions to shape our Village's future!  Click here to read more.
  

Port Credit Local Advisory Panel   ▲

• The City's Planning Dept. has created the Port Credit Local Advisory Panel, which includes reps from all the local stakeholder groups (including TOPCA).  Click here for a list of the members of the Panel.  The Advisory Panel will provide input into the planning policies that are being prepared for Port Credit with reference to the Directions Report approved by Council in Nov. 2008.  Click here for background on the Port Credit District Policies Review and the Directions Report.
• Planning Dept. staff developed Terms of Reference for the establishment of the Local Advisory Panel and have written a Corporate Report that was approved by Council in Feb. 2009.
  NOTE: There will be additional opportunities for public input on proposed Port Credit planning policies in addition to the Advisory Panel.
• Click here to view the Advertisement.  Over thirty (30) applications were received by the March 27, 2009 deadline.  Click here for the Application Form. 
• Click here for the City's featured article on the Local Advisory Panel concept, including access to the Minutes of each meeting.
• If you have any questions please feel free to contact Paul Stewart, Policy Planner for Port Credit at paul.stewart@mississauga.ca or call at 905-615-3200 ext. 5813.

A Vision for Port Credit: Pictorial Presentation and Discussion   ▲

• TOPCA sponsored a community meeting on June 4, 2008 to present A Vision for Port Credit, which has emerged from all our collective ideas. The City received these compiled ideas in May 2008 as a White Paper entitled:

Port Credit: An Urban Village for the 21st Century;
A Model Community for the World
As submitted by VIVA Port Credit (TOPCA is a member group)
Click here to view the White Paper

• Click here to read the follow-up Mississauga News article entitled 'Residents applaud new Port Credit vision'.
• Click here to read the Mississauga News op-ed column entitled 'Dream of a new Port Credit' (July 8, 2008)
• On Sept. 5, 2008, TOPCA and other members of VIVA Port Credit presented a PowerPoint presentation to the City which incorporated the public input from the June 4, 2008 meeting.  Click here to see the presentation.
  

Developing Our 100 Acres: Urban Design Panel on Port Credit   ▲

• TOPCA sponsored a public meeting on Nov. 26, 2008: Developing Our 100 Acres: An Urban Design Panel on Port Credit, which featured a variety of urban design practitioners.  Click here for Biographies.  Then-Ward 1 Councillor Carmen Corbasson and Mayor Hazel McCallion attended.
• This was a discussion of the urban design challenges as they pertain to the significant lands potentially available for development or re-development in Port Credit.  How will this affect our Village model?  The City will be studying future use of the former Texaco lands (a Brownfield), the Harbour lands, and properties on the Lakeshore Road Corridor.  Public realm, built form and transportation systems are all part of the urban design mix.  How can we achieve our collective community Vision: 'Evolving the Urban Village'?  Click here for Program.
• Click here for Aerial View of potential development sites.  Note that public parks slated for redevelopment have been additionally outlined in green, further to questions asked at the meeting.
• Click here for Questions asked of the Panel in both written form, and at the public microphone.  Feel free to e-mail additional questions to TOPCA@topca.net for the follow-up meeting in Spring 2009!
• A preliminary inventory of 127 images was compiled for this event.  Click here for pictorial resources.  PLEASE NOTE: These images are for discussion purposes.  In terms of the Texaco Brownfield and Harbour Marina sites, the Google Earth overlays (e.g. Tiananmen Square, Square One, Sydney Opera House) on slides #57-62 and #68-74 are designed to show the size and scale of the properties, and are not literal suggestions of what should be put there!

Ramping-up the Port Credit Vision    ▲

• TOPCA sponsored a public meeting entitled RAMPING-UP THE PORT CREDIT VISION on March 22, 2011 at Clarke Hall.  It took the form of a Community Panel Discussion.  Participants included: Mayor Hazel McCallion, Ward 1 Councillor Jim Tovey and the Hon. Charles Sousa, Ontario Minister of Labour and MPP, Mississauga South. 
  ► Click for FLYER.  ► Click for AGENDA.  ► Click for BIOS & PICS.  
  
  ROGERS TV BROADCAST SCHEDULE:  Rogers Cable 10 will broadcast the taped program from the March 22, 2011 public meeting sponsored by TOPCA: "Ramping-Up the Port Credit Vision". 
  
  Thanks to the approx. 250 folks who attended the meeting -- and to our Guest Speakers (L to R): Bob Howald (CLC), Minister Glen Murray and Ed Charlton (Imperial Oil).  NOTE: The VISUAL PRESENTATIONS of the 3 guest speakers are posted under the Panel listing further below.  ▼
  
  
  
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Mississauga News article (March 18, 2011): Community discusses Port Credit vision.
  Mississauga News article (March 23, 2011): Crown buys marina space.
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  HOW DO WE CREATE A "VISION TEST" FOR PORT CREDIT?  
  How do we attract and accelerate the right development for our fragile village?
  Introductory Remarks by Moderator Jim Danahy, TOPCA Co-President.
  
  
  
  The extraordinary PANEL OF GUEST SPEAKERS included:
  ► The Honourable Glen Murray, Ontario Minister of  Research and Innovation and renowned urbanist (formerly Mayor of Winnipeg and CEO of the Canadian Urban Institute), shared ideas about how some of the world’s most successful urban communities protect and innovate at the same time.
  ► Tweet by @Glen4TC during the meeting: Huge turnout at (TOPCA) meeting with residents (250+) in Port Credit to discuss plans with Min Charles Sousa and other officials.  
  ► VISUAL PRESENTATION: Innovation Economies, Attracting Knowledge-based Talent and Jobs, and the Role of Place Making (43p PDF). 
   
  ► Robert A. Howald, Senior Vice-President Real Estate, Canada Lands Company CLC Limited (now owner of the 19-acre federal Marina lands in Port Credit) spoke about how large brownfield redevelopments can be accomplished in delicate urban settings, using examples of inspiring redevelopments CLC has done elsewhere and an outline of the considerations that will be unique to the planning and redevelopment of the waterfront Marina lands. 
  ► See CLC's new webpage for the Marina lands at 1 Port Street East.
  ► VISUAL PRESENTATION: Inspiring and Innovative Development (18p PDF).
  
  ► Ed Charlton, Senior Real Estate Manager for Devon Estates Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Imperial Oil, manages surplus properties for Imperial Oil in Ontario, including the 75-acre brownfield in Port Credit.  Ed explained how civil liability issues currently preclude the site's development, but if a comprehensive mixed-use plan can be made for the whole property with the community's support, it could be executed in coherent, integrated phases compatible with sound environmental, planning and economic conditions.  The Ontario Government must first establish an effective public policy regime for environmental liability and risk management. 
  ► VISUAL PRESENTATION: Brownfields: Land Owner Perspective (19p PDF).

Hurontario Main Street Study (Rapid Transit)   ▲

• The Hurontario / Main Street Study (website) is examining how rapid transit service could operate along the Hurontario Street (Highway 10) and Main Street corridor between the Port Credit area and the GO Station in downtown Brampton. This will not just be a Transportation plan, but a Land Use and Urban Design plan, with a multi-disciplinary approach.  The feasibility study began in May 2008. 
• The Port Credit/Mineola workshop took place on Oct. 30, 2008 concerning the section of Hurontario St. south of the QEW to the lake.  Click for the presentation.
• The 'Connect 10' Symposium with City staff, consultants, stakeholders and community leaders took place on Nov. 21, 2008 and focused on the emerging vision for implementing rapid transit along the Hurontario/Main Street Corridor.  Click for the presentation.
• Click for the Hurontario Directions Report (Feb. 2009) and other documents and presentations produced to date.
• There was a Public Information Centre on June 10, 2009 to review the study findings, rapid transit options and station locations for the proposed BRT or LRT line connecting Port Credit to Brampton.  Click for the display panels. 
• February 17, 2010: The Corporate Staff Report dated Feb. 4, 2010 was presented at General Committee of Council recommending approval for the next round of public consultation under Phase 2: Environmental Assessment.  The Report recommends Light Rail Transit (LRT) for the Hurontario Corridor from Brampton to Port Credit.  Note that implementation is presently unfunded. 
  ► Mississauga News article (Feb. 18, 2010): Light Rail Transit on track.
•  The next Public Information Session in Mississauga was held on March 31, 2010 at Mississauga Civic Centre.  Click for the display panels.
• A Notice of Completion was published on January 19, 2011.  The Master Plan has now been prepared and is available for review until February 18, 2011.  Note the section on the 'Port Credit Character Area' is at pp113-119 in Chapter 8 of the Master Plan.
• Sudy Website: www.hurontario-main.ca
• What do you think?  If you e-mail your comments to the City's project leader regarding #10 rapid transit (Matthew.Williams@mississauga.ca ) please also consider copying TOPCA@topca.net in order that the TOPCA Executive can better represent your views in TOPCA’s response to the City.

'No-Frills' Site Development   ▲

• As reviewed at the TOPCA AGM on November 15, 2007, there are plans for a new development on the site of the present No Frills grocery store. The official application was received by the City on April 23, 2008. TOPCA has been represented at meetings with the developer (Centre City Capital Limited) to learn what is proposed, and to provide input to the developer and to City planning staff. 
• There was a Ward 1 Community Meeting concerning this development application on June 26, 2008.  Click here for details about the application.
• The developer's complete visual presentation at the Community Meeting is available on the TOPCA website.  Click here to see the presentation images.
• There was a formal Public Meeting held under the Ontario Planning Act on February 2, 2009 in the Council Chamber at City Hall.  Click here for more details.
• The Planning Dept's Information Report including the latest design details is now available online.
  ► Click to review VIVA PC's remarks to PDC on February 2, 2009, now augmented with pictures.
• The Planning Dept. advised on February 15, 2011 that additional information requested from the developer is currently being reviewed by City staff, with some requested materials still outstanding: "We are still working through some of the issues with the applicant (e.g. the proposed streetscape along Lakeshore Rd.) and they still have not addressed all our issues or submitted all information requested.  We will not schedule a Supplementary Report until this happens."  The developer has made it known that they are trying to secure a grocery store tenant (as strongly requested by the community) in the new mainstreet retail component of the mixed-use (residential / office / retail) site. 
• What do you think?  If you e-mail your comments to the City planner regarding the 'No Frills' site development (Ben.Phillips@mississauga.ca) please also consider copying TOPCA@topca.net in order that the TOPCA Executive can better represent your views in TOPCA’s response to the City.

Ann and High Streets Site Development   ▲

• TOPCA reps attended an exploratory meeting held by FRAM Building Group on October 6, 2010, regarding a proposal to develop a 17-22 storey condo tower on the portion of the block immediately behind (north of) the Skinner & Middlebrook Funeral Home located at 128 Lakeshore Road East (satellite map).  The present District Policies allow a maximum of 15 storeys, half a block back from Lakeshore Road, subject to various urban design parameters.  THE PLAN IS FOR THE FUNERAL HOME TO STAY with Funeral Home parking potentially under the new building. 
• The proposed condo building would occupy the area of the present attached residence at #6 Ann Street (with swimming pool) behind the Funeral Home and the adjacent parking lot at #8 Ann Street.  In addition, the property on the NE corner of the block (house at #10 Ann Street at High Street) is included in the proposed redevelopment. 
  ► Click to view PHOTO ALBUM (22p PDF) of the present site.
  ► TOUR THE AREA:  Starting from the Google Maps view of the Skinner & Middlebrook building, go to views of the proposed condo site presently occupied by the house in rear and then the parking lot and house @ 10 Ann Street. 
  ► TOPCA responded with a letter (Oct. 26, 2010) to FRAM outlining a series of concerns based on the meeting, to which FRAM replied (Nov. 8, 2010).  TOPCA reformatted the issues of concern for website posting: TOPCA Letter: Dec. 22, 2010, to which FRAM replied: FRAM Letter: Dec. 27, 2010. 
  ► DEVELOPER WORKSHOPS:  At the WATERSIDE INN, 15 Stavebank Road South (map).  NEXT WORKSHOPS: Tues. January 25 @ 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. and Tues. February 1 @ 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.  ALL ARE WELCOME. 
• FRAM originally issued an invitation to the group reps who sit on the Port Credit Local Advisory Panel to attend a series of workshops about the project.  Councillor Jim Tovey acted on concerns by the reps that the workshops be open and FRAM's invitation has subsequently been expanded to include the neighbouring properties, the various community constituencies and the Councillor and City Planning Staff as well. 
  ► REPORT ON FIRST WORKSHOP:  Saturday, January 15 was the kick-off session, with a wide range of opinions given in response to how residents would like to see Port Credit develop over time.  There was discussion of considerations such as heritage, waterfront, village mainstreet, local retail, transit, parking, traffic, neighbourhood, open space and environment.  The next session will be more specific, utilizing the 3-D model of the area that has been constructed, and discussing urban design issues such as height, massing, transition, setbacks, shadowing, materials, block layout, view corridors, etc. as would pertain to the proposed development. 
  NOTE:   It is not necessary to have attended the first workshop in order to attend any of the subsequent sessions.
  ► PLANNING STAFF INVOLVEMENT:  City staff will be attending all the workshops, and further to requests by the citizen reps of TOPCA, CRA, PCVP, FOPCV and VIVA PC, Planning Staff made a presentation at the beginning of the first session about the City's DRAFT Port Credit Built Form Guidelines (click to view), including proposed heights, transitions, setbacks, shadowing, etc.   City Planning Staff have provided the following comments concerning their role at the workshop:
  -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  "At the invitation of Frank Giannone, staff from the Planning and Building Department (both Policy and Development & Design Sections) will be attending the FRAM/Slokker workshops.  We are always interested in helping the community understand and appreciate the issues and complexity that can sometimes occur when dealing with planning and development.
  
  "I think it is important to state upfront that City staff are attending as more of a resource to answer questions about our current regulations and policies.  We can also provide our thoughts behind the material included in the Draft Built Form Guidelines Presentation and other planning initiatives (e.g. mobility hubs) that the City is involved with.  Staff may on occasion  ask questions or offer a suggestion for the workshop participants to consider and discuss, after all, as planners we do like to talk about planning matters.
  
  "However I want to be clear that the workshops are not a substitute for the process that the City uses to evaluate development applications.  Should an application be made by FRAM on the Ann Street property it would follow the development approval process established by the City and governed through the Planning Act.  Although staff will attend the workshops to listen to the discussions it is important to recognize that any final product that results from the workshops will not be endorsed by City staff.
  
  "Please note that the material in the Draft Built Form Guidelines Presentation are draft, and that they have not been approved by Council.  As such, elements of the Design Guidelines may still change, however, the Draft Guidelines provide a reasonable idea of the direction for these lands."

  Paul Stewart, MCIP, RPP
  Planner, Policy Planning Division
  City of Mississauga
  300 City Centre
  Mississauga ON L5B 3C1
  phone: 905-615-3200 ext. 5813
  e-mail: paul.stewart@mississauga.ca
  -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Port Credit Library: Mainstreet Sign   ▲

BACKGROUND:  Concern has been expressed by local residents about the large sign now installed by the Library (per photos below) which dominates the main street and would seem to direct access to several major venues via the narrow "right-in" access to the Library parking lot.  It cost $140,000 to install; there was no prior citizen consultation.  Click for the TOPCA letter to the City (March 10, 2011), discussing the issues that the sign raises.  Click for the PHOTO ALBUM (14p PDF) showing the sign from various angles.  Click for a scaled visual comparison of two different library signs.  Correspondence received from the City indicates the sign is meant to improve way-finding to the City facilities within the "campus setting" and meets the City standard.  Only the Library is actually located at this address.  According to Commissioner Paul Mitcham, there is no money in the Community Services budget to lower or switch the sign.   See further below for May update....


Click the image above for a scaled comparison of the two signs.



Click image above for the PHOTO ALBUM (14p PDF) showing the sign from various angles.

MAY UPDATE:  A visual Citizen Presentation (click to view the 34p PDF) was made to the City's Heritage Advisory Committee (HAC) on May 24, 2011 on behalf of TOPCA, the Credit Reserve Association (CRA) and the Port Credit Village Project (PCVP), with research support provided by the Mississauga South Historical Society (MSHS).  Click to view the HAC Agenda (see pp41-58 of the PDF for e-mails and supporting materials submitted to the HAC).  These materials made reference to the 2009 Heritage Impact Statement (HIS) for the PC Library (recommending Heritage Designation), a 2001 Background Report on proposed special signage provisions for Port Credit which were implemented in the revised 2002 City Sign By-law (44p PDF).  HAC has now recommended that Ward 1 Councillor Jim Tovey follow-up on the issues raised regarding non-compliance with the Sign By-law and the Heritage impacts (surprisingly, no H.I.S. was filed with HAC for the library sign).  Prior to any recommendation to Council, the HAC will review the issues again at a future date.

WHAT DO YOU THINK?  E-mail your comments to Ward 1 Councillor Jim Tovey.  Please also consider copying TOPCA@topca.net so that the TOPCA Executive can best represent your views to the City.

COMMUNITY COMMENTS:  Click to read what your neighbours think.

Proposed Lakeshore Walmart (or Target)  ▲

• WHAT DO YOU THINK?  E-mail your comments to Ward 1 Councillor Jim Tovey and Mayor Hazel McCallion.  Please also consider copying TOPCA@topca.net so that the TOPCA Executive can best represent your views in our formal response to the City. 
  TOPCA is pleased to be receiving your thoughts!  COMMUNITY COMMENTS:  Click to read what your neighbours think.
  
  
• LOCATION: 501 Lakeshore Road East (map -- includes walk-about starting
  at point 'A' in photo).  Below: Google Maps aerial view of the 14.5 acre site
  which extends from Lakeshore Road East, north to the CNR line, between
  Enola Avenue and the Cooksville Creek.  Click image to enlarge.
  
  
  
  
• BACKGROUND: In this era of big-box and chain stores, residents may well reflect on the sustainability of the local mainstreet shopping district, given news that a proposed Walmart may be constructed as part of a phased, mixed-use development at the NE corner of Lakeshore Road East and Enola Avenue, just west of the Cooksville Creek.  This is the site of the former Inglis/Admiral manufacturing plant.  A bike shop is now located in part of the front building.
• Just inside the border of the Lakeview District, this development is expected to have a significant impact on mainstreet retail businesses and traffic flow along the entire Lakeshore Road corridor including Port Credit.
• ► Click for Letter to the Mayor: June 23, 2011 from the Lakeview Ratepayers Association.
• ► Click for public presentation by Trinity dated November 17, 2011, as shown at the November 2nd public meeting at PCSS (28p PDF), including image below. 
  
  
  
   
  
• COUNCILLOR POSITION: Ward 1 Councillor Jim Tovey issued the following statement on December 26, 2010:
  "On Tuesday, December 21st a constructive meeting was held at the Ward office with representatives from Trinity Development and Walmart.  To date, no application has been filed with the City of Mississauga for a Walmart at Lakeshore and Enola Rd.  My position continues to be that there should be no big box stores within the Lakeshore corridor and this was reinforced throughout a positive dialogue.  It was also recognized that this is a significant site with great possibilities to enhance our waterfront community.  I look forward to working with Trinity on an appropriate development that will complement the community’s vision for Lakeshore Road."
  
  The Councillor issued the following statement on May 17, 2011:
  "Our Ward 1 office has been receiving a high number of enquiries on the proposed Walmart development on Lakeshore Rd. at Enola Ave.  As the Ward Counsellor I strongly oppose large format retail stores anywhere within the Lakeshore corridor.  My belief is that Port Credit should retain its distinct village character and Lakeview should be allowed to develop its own unique village character according to the vision of the community as outlined in Inspiration Lakeview.  I would like to thank all the people who have sent in emails and phone calls of support for this position.  Please stay in touch and stay involved.  Below is a summary and fact sheet [click to view] prepared by staff outlining the history of this file, the application process that is required, and general timelines for the submission to be reviewed by the Planning and Building Department."
  
  
• CITY POSITION: Planning Dept. staff have stated that no City position has been taken on the Walmart proposal, although it is recognized that the process to elicit stakeholder input and seek consensus on principles and objectives for the site may be perceived in this way.  Click to view the City's Summary and Fact Sheet: May 17, 2011 concerning the entire development proposal.  The City Planner on this file is John Hardcastle, (905) 615-3200 ext. 5525.  
  
  
• PROPOSAL: A meeting of the City's DARC (Development Application Review Committee) took place on May 2, 2011.  DARC advises what studies and other supporting materials must accompany an application when it is officially submitted, e.g. a traffic study. 
• The DARC meeting was augmented by a facilitated workshop for a wide variety of stakeholder groups, including Credit Valley Conservation (regarding the Cooksville Creek), the Region of Peel (regarding its pumping station) and all appropriate departments within the City including Planning, Transportation, etc.  The owner of the property, the developer, and Walmart were all present at the meetings, along with Trinity's planning consultant, Korsiak & Co.  Also present were reps from two local residents' associations. 
• Walmart presented its preliminary proposal, which is being revised in view of the input received on May 2 at DARC, and subsequently on June 14 at the Urban Design Advisory Panel; new renderings have now been released.
• Click to view the City's Summary and Fact Sheet: May 17, 2011 concerning the entire development proposal, which originally comprised 2-storey retail commercial use along the Lakeshore Road frontage, including the proposed Walmart.  In a later phase, five (5) high-rise residential buildings with heights ranging from 9 to 25 storeys (1,118 residential units) were proposed to the rear of the total 14.5 acre site.  THESE PLANS HAVE BEEN REVISED AND A NEW FACT SHEET IS EXPECTED.  Click for latest public presentation.
  
  
• FORMAT: The planning consultant states that Walmart is pioneering an 'Urban Walmart' format at this site which harks back to the form and function of the mainstreet department store which used to be so common in towns; the size is 90,000 sq ft (2 acres).  The consultant states that the architecture is projected to be high-end and that the store is uniquely scaled for the neighbourhood level and will be a very different built form from what has been the norm.
  
  
• SIZE DATA: The planning consultant has provided the following comparative size data for Walmart stores in the Mississauga area:
          - Heartland: 200,000 sq ft.
          - South Common Mall: 130,000 sq ft.
          - Winston Churchill/Argentia: 130,000 sq ft.
          - Square One: over 200,000 sq ft.
          - West Brampton (new): 180,000 sq ft.  (Mississauga Rd south of Bovaird)
          - Lakeshore (proposal): 90,000 sq ft.
• NOTE: the Fieldgate site proposal for a Walmart store in the the Dundas and Dixie area is approx. 156,000 sq ft. -- construction expected to begin Fall 2011.
   
• MEDIA:
  
  ► Mississauga News editorial (Nov. 3, 2011): Area needs the jobs.  Has generated considerable controversy!
  
  ► Mississauga News article (Nov. 2, 2011): Target enters Lakeview talks.  Excerpt: "Lakeview has become a battleground for two American retail giants after area residents learned this evening that Target and Walmart are both vying for a prime piece of land on Lakeshore Rd. to open one of their stores. ... The plan, presented tonight by Trinity Developments, who owns the 14.5 acres of land in question, is to open either a Walmart or a Target as part of a phased, mixed-use development at the northeast corner of Lakeshore Rd. E. and Enola Ave., just west of the Cooksville Creek."
  
  
  ► Mississauga News article (July 12, 2011): New Walmart in development.  Excerpt: "A real estate group has purchased 33.7 acres near Dundas St. E. and Dixie Rd. [Fieldgate site] with an eye towards building a new Walmart power centre."  [This site is approx. 7km from the proposed Lakeshore Walmart site]
  
  ► Canadian Grocer article (June 29, 2011): Walmart’s Urban 90 format will have a local focus.  Excerpt: "The Urban 90 prototype store will effectively be a smaller footprint Walmart Supercentre, carrying a full assortment of fresh food and general merchandise.  'The merchandise assortment will be reflective of the local community,' said Rosalyn Harris, manager, public relations, Walmart Canada.” 
  
  ► Toronto Star article (June 24, 2011): Wal-Mart to open ‘urban’ store, buys Zellers sites.  Excerpt: "Wal-Mart Canada will launch a new store format, called 'Urban 90,' in east Toronto in January, the company has confirmed.  Wal-Mart Canada’s president and chief executive officer David Cheesewright revealed the plan in response to a question at the Jefferies Global Consumer Conference earlier this week.  His remarks were not widely reported. The initial urban store would be in a former used car lot in eastern Scarborough.  It would be on a 4.5-acre site roughly half the size of a typical Wal-Mart site, he told the conference."  
  Below is an image from the above-referenced  presentation.
  
  
  ► Washington Post article (June 3, 2011; reprinted June 4 in the Toronto Star): Wal-Mart unveils smallest store format.  NOTE: at 15,000 to 30,000 sq ft, the 'Walmart Express' format described in this article is NOT the same as the 'Urban Walmart' format proposed for the Lakeview site.
   
• WIKIPEDIA: Walmart Canada.  Excerpt:  Wal-Mart Discount Stores in Canada:  Wal-Mart Discount Stores are discount department stores with size varying from 51,000 to 150,000 square feet (4,738.1 to 13,935.5 m2), with an average store covering about 102,000 square feet (9,476.1 m2).  They carry general merchandise and a selection of food.  Many of these stores also have a garden centre, a pharmacy, Tire & Lube Express, optical centre, one-hour photo processing lab, portrait studio, a bank branch, a cell phone store and a fast food outlet (usually McDonald's).  Walmart was established in Canada in 1994 with the acquisition of the 122-store Woolco division of Woolworth Canada.  As of January 2011, there were 201 Wal-Mart Discount Stores in Canada.[1] In 2006, the busiest in the country was one in Square One Shopping Centre [220,000 sq ft] ... As of January 2011, there were 124 Wal-Mart Supercentres in Canada.  
  
  
• PROCESS:
  June 14, 2011: Plans go to the to City's Urban Design Advisory Panel for review.  No images will be publicly released until the Panel's comments are reflected in any revisions (possibly Labour Day).
  
  November 2011: Beginning of submission of formal Development Application to the City's Planning and Building Dept.  Click to view the City's Summary and Fact Sheet: May 17, 2011 concerning the application process.

'Briarwood' Site Development   ▲

• NEW WEBPAGE:  A new webpage has been created to accommodate all the updates to this file, further to the Community Meeting on September 1, 2010 at the WATERSIDE INN.  ► Click here for the new Webpage with details of the 2 upcoming meetings in January 2010.
  
  
• LATEST INFORMATION (Phase 2):  COMMITTEE OF ADJUSTMENT: The Committee of Adjustment will consider requests for variances (click for the Notice of Public Hearing) regarding Phase 2 of this site development at 321 & 325 Lakeshore Road West on Thurs. September 9 @ 1:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber.  The variances would allow the issuance of a building permit and construction to begin on the proposed 2-storey medical office building in advance of the Official Plan amendment and re-zoning necessary to allow the building to proceed.  Click to view the Sketch Plan: August 23, 2010 as submitted to the Committee of Adjustment for the site under consideration, and the excerpt of the plan showing more detail. 
  A Community Meeting was held FIRST on Wed. September 1 (see below).
  
  DOCUMENTS RECEIVED SEPTEMBER 1, 2010:
  Lakeshore Road West aerial elevation looking westward
  Lakeshore Road West aerial elevation looking eastward 
  
  ** COMMUNITY MEETING ** :  Wed. September 1 @ 7:00 p.m. at the WATERSIDE INN, 15 Stavebank Road South (map).  Click here for the Community Notice.  A public review of the entire 2-acre development proposal on Lakeshore Road and the rezoning applications for 7 Maple Avenue South and 3 Pine Avenue South.  The proposed medical office building (321 Lakeshore) and CIBC branch building (301 Lakeshore), along with retention of the heritage Gatehouse (305 Lakeshore) are all development components that local residents' associations are working to see designed in harmony, even with the Shoppers Drug Mart already constructed at 325 Lakeshore, and be more in keeping with the site's Mainstreet Commercial zoning and the village character outlined in the Port Credit Directions Report. 
  
  ► TOPCA published its position regarding the need for a Public Meeting: "Early approval of the variances would undermine the rezoning process and pre-empt the right of area residents to review and comment on the applicant’s complex and as yet, incomplete plans for the entire Briarwood site."  Click to view the TOPCA letter: August 6, 2010.

  

• LATEST INFORMATION (Phase 3):   HERITAGE DESIGNATION:  At the Council meeting of August 4, 2010, Council voted to proceed with heritage designation of the Hill Gatehouse / Dudgeon Cottage at 305 Lakeshore Road West.
  ► Mississauga News article (August 5, 2010): Gatehouse is saved. 
  ► Mississauga News article (August 11, 2010): Senior called gatehouse home.
  
  NEW WEBPAGE:  A new webpage has been created to accommodate all the updates to this file, further to the Community Meeting on Wed. September 1, 2010 @ 7:00 p.m. at the WATERSIDE INN, 15 Stavebank Road South (map).   Click here for the new Webpage.
  
  DOCUMENTS RECEIVED SEPTEMBER 1, 2010:
  Traffic Impact Study for a proposed CIBC bank, 301 Lakeshore Road West (47p PDF)
  CIBC site plan: 301 Lakeshore Road West - August 17, 2010
  Lakeshore Road West aerial elevation looking westward
  Lakeshore Road West aerial elevation looking eastward  
  
  PHOTO ALBUM:  Click to view Photos of 305 Lakeshore Road West (22p PDF) on Phase 3 of the former "Briarwood" property, showing its present condition, site plan issues and its mainstreet context.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The City's Heritage Advisory Committee (HAC) met on July 27, 2010 (click for Agenda -- item #6) to review the City Corporate Report: July 16, 2010 (3p PDF) entitled: Request to Remove Heritage Listed Building: Hill Gatehouse / Dudgeon Cottage, 305 Lakeshore Road West (Ward 1) which sits on the former "Briarwood" site in Port Credit.  The City's recommendation to demolish was based on the developer's Heritage Impact Statement dated July 12, 2010 (69p PDF).  There are plans for the Port Credit branch of the CIBC to relocate to this site as a tenant -- CIBC has stated it requires a driveway off Lakeshore Road that would predicate the removal of the heritage building.
  Additional details about the Site Plan appear further below. 
  
  CITIZEN SUMMARY:  Click to view a Citizen Summary of the deputations made to the HAC and the comments of the HAC members prior to their vote regarding designation of the Hill Gatehouse.
  
  At a meeting on May 17, 2010 with the CIBC, developer Pelican (Lakeshore), Senator Developments, Mayor Hazel McCallion, then-Councillor Carmen Corbasson and City staff, local citizen groups were told they would receive the developer's contracted Heritage Impact Statement (HIS).  This did not occur, but TOPCA and other groups received a scanned copy (69p PDF) on July 26, 2010 via MSAi. 
  
  Local citizen group reps, including TOPCA, Cranberry Cove Port Credit Ratepayers' Assn and Port Credit Village Residents' Assn had already reacted quickly in an effort to save this character building in situ and had jointly endorsed a Citizen Heritage Impact Study (20p PDF) which was prepared by TOPCA and submitted to the members of HAC.  A joint citizen deputation was made before the Committee which recommended that the request to demolish the building be denied, and that the building be designated. 
  
  HAC MOTION:  The HAC voted unanimously at their July 27, 2010 meeting for the following Motion:  HAC-0045-2010.  "Notwithstanding the Corporate Report dated July 16, 2010 from the Commissioner of Community Services titled “Request to Remove Heritage Listed Building Hill Gatehouse/ Dudgeon Cottage 305 Lakeshore Road West (Ward 1)”, the Heritage Advisory Committee recommends that Hill Gatehouse/ Dudgeon Cottage, located at 305 Lakeshore Road West be designated under the Ontario Heritage Act for the property's physical/design, historical/associative and contextual value, and that the appropriate City officials be authorized and directed to take the necessary action to give effect thereto."
  ► This HAC recommendation went to Council for final approval on August 4, 2010 (Agenda - item #6e), where the developer appealed the HAC recommendation.  The local citizen groups presented a rejoinder.  Council voted for designation.

  The developer, Pelican (Lakeshore) Commercial Inc., a subsidiary of Senator Developments, submitted a Site Plan (PDF) dated February 12, 2010 to the City with their application in April 2010, which showed the heritage building (pictured above) removed. 
  
  With the assistance of local architect Michael Spaziani (MSAi), citizen groups have presented an Alternative Site Plan (PDF) in June 2010 for the proposed CIBC re-location, which would enable retention of the character building and enhance the development yield on the site.  Click to view the cover letter sent June 9, 2010 to all parties by the residents' associations, concerning the alternative site plan, shown below.  Click image to read detail by using the PDF  '+' magnifying tool.  FURTHER PICTURES PENDING.

  

  BACKGROUND (Phase 1):
  

• The City has received a Site Plan application (Nov. 2008) from Pelican (Lakeshore) Commercial Inc. for a proposed Shoppers Drug Mart / Walk-in Clinic at 321 Lakeshore Rd. W. (former Briarwood GM car dealership location).  The Shoppers Drug Mart at Credit Landing Plaza will be moving to this new location.
• An office/retail development is envisioned in Stage 2 (at 325 Lakeshore Rd. W.).  Stage 3 will comprise additional commercial development on the rest of the 'Briarwood' site, east of Pine Street South.  The total size of the site for Stages 1 and 2 is 1.95 acres.
• To view descriptions and photographs of the site, and elements of the developer's Master Site Plan (statistics, legend) as forwarded to TOPCA by the City's Planning Dept, click here. 
• To view the original  Master Site Plan in more detail (use 150% zoom), click here.  Click here for the revised Master Site Plan dated May 21, 2009.
• Stage 1 of the proposed Site Plan required variances and went to the Committee of Adjustment on March 12, 2009.
  Click here for the Notice.  The variances were granted conditionally.
  Click here for TOPCA's position in a letter to the Committee. 
  Click here for the Committee's written decision.
• The developer has supplied images (March 16, 2009) of the planned Shoppers Drug Mart and Bank of Montreal.  Click here to view.
  NOTE: New elevations 1. North and West and 2. South and East for the Shoppers Drug Mart, dated May 21, 2009, are now available for viewing.
• RE-ZONING: Notification has been received from the City Planning Dept. regarding Official Plan and Zoning amendments required for Stage 2 (the Bank of Montreal portion).  Click here for the Notice dated March 2, 2009.  Essentially, the residential property at 7 Maple Ave. S., owned by the developer, needs to be rezoned to enable the required parking allocation for the proposed use.
  A statutory Public Meeting will be held -- date TBA.
• There was a Community Meeting held April 30, 2009 to discuss residents' concerns regarding the re-zoning application, traffic routing and urban design considerations of the development applications.  The City's position was that there should be no Lakeshore Road access to the site.
• COMMITTEE OF ADJUSTMENT: A new hearing was held on  May 21, 2009 per re-application for requested variances on the amended site plan.
  Click here for the Notice.  The variances were granted.
  Click here for the Planning Dept.'s recommendations to the Committee.
  Click here for TOPCA's presentation/letter to the Committee (includes pictures).
  Click here for the Committee's written Decision.
• ELEVATIONS: New elevations 1. North and West and 2. South and East for the Shoppers Drug Mart, dated May 21, 2009, are available for viewing.
• LATEST SITE PLAN: A  revised Master Site Plan dated May 21, 2009 has been forwarded by the developer.  Note the loading area has been moved to the back of the SDM building (i.e. facing the parking lot) and a 'T-junction' for Lakeshore Road access is shown.
• UPDATE: A conditional building permit was issued in mid-September 2009 and excavation began for the first Stage.   The landscaping plan and median separation issues for Lakeshore Road access were finalized, and the building is now complete.  Applications for Phase 2 and 3 are pending.
• What do you think?  If you e-mail your comments to the City planner regarding the "Briarwood" site development (David.Breveglieri@mississauga.ca) please also consider copying TOPCA@topca.net in order that the TOPCA Executive can better represent your views in TOPCA’s response to the City.

Pioneer Gas Site   ▲

• The Committee of Adjustment was asked by Pioneer Petroleums to defer the October 28, 2010 hearing on their Application for variances at Pioneer Gas, 150 Lakeshore Road East (satellite map).  This application pertains to Port Credit's village mainstreet character and local traffic flow.  The deferral was granted to allow time for the applicant to meet for the first time with local citizen groups to discuss the many concerns raised. 
• Click to view the Planning Staff Report: October 26, 2010, which supported the Pioneer application. 
• Click to view the TOPCA Letter: October 28, 2010 to the Committee which asked for a deferral or a denial of the application. 
• TOPCA reps met with Pioneer on November 11, 2010. 
• Click to view the second Planning Staff Report: November 19, 2010, which provides an historical rationale for supporting the Pioneer application.
• TOPCA reps met with a number of Senior Planning Staff on November 24, 2010 in order to review the history and status of the application -- click to view the resultant TOPCA Letter: November 29, 2010 to the City. 
• The application went back to the Committee of Adjustment on November 25, 2010 and the variances were granted.  ► Click here for the written CofA DECISION. 
• Click to view the:
      ► Photo Album (22p PDF) of the present site
      ► Site Plan (proposed by the developer)
      ► Carwash elevations
      ► Food outlet/Patio elevations  
      NEW:  (Additional images received from Pioneer on Nov. 22, 2010)
          Panel 1: Landscape Development Concept
          Panel 2: Streetscape Concept
          Panel 3: Image Simulations (for 3 on-site structures)
• Click to view the: ►  MSAi Alternative Site Plan proposal (11p PDF) by local architect Michael Spaziani (Nov. 8, 2010) as a public service to address citizen concerns as articulated in TOPCA's Oct. 28 letter.  Additional 3-D modeling based on the MSAi site plan proposal was provided by the Centre for Landscape Research (CLR) at U of T. 
  Click first image below for detail; click second image for all 9 3D models.
  
  

Mississauga Cycling Advisory Committee (MCAC)   ▲

• If you are interested in any aspect of cycling in Mississauga, visit the MCAC website for news, events, maps and interactive features to enhance your understanding of the issues and the challenges involved for increasing safety and connectivity for cyclists in this City.  Learn about the 200km of trails we have now, and get out on your bike!

Shifting Gears – Cycling Master Plan Review   ▲

• The City of Mississauga has developed a new Cycling Master Plan, approved by Council in 2010.  Click here for the City’s webpage including access to the Master Plan documents.

Waterfront Parks Strategy   ▲

• The City's Consultants, Brook McIlroy Inc./Pace Architects have completed the final draft plan for the Waterfront Parks Strategy, following previous public input sessions.  Council approved the report on March 26, 2008.
• For information on the 3 priority parks in Port Credit, click on Port Credit Memorial Park West, Marina Park, and J.C. Saddington Park.
• Click here to access the Draft Report on the City's website.

Hatchery Proposal for Heritage Pumping Station   ▲

• There is a local initiative for adaptive reuse of the heritage pumping station buildings at J.C. Saddington Park, under the auspices of the newly formed Port Credit Salmon and Trout Association (website).   
• Mississauga News article (April 11, 2010): Baby salmon nurtured in pen.  Describes the 2010 project, which is proposed to expand to enable local hatching and imprinting of salmon fry in the pumping station facility (beginning Fall 2011) prior to release into local waters.  
• Mississauga South MPP Charles Sousa addressed this issue (Statement) in the Ontario Legislature on May 17, 2010. 
• The Waterfront Parks Strategy: J.C. Saddington Park (15p PDF) provides discussion about the desirability of adaptively re-using these pumping buildings.  The buildings are now being evaluated as to potential design and remediation considerations in support of a formal proposal to the City.  The necessary pumps and pipes are already in place! 
•  The TOPCA Executive received a presentation about this proposal on June 6, 2010 and will be providing ongoing support.

Port Credit Boat Launch (Marina Park)   ▲

• ARCHAEOLOGICAL DIG AT MARINA PARK:  Several 30' x 3' trenches were dug (and now back-filled) in the parking lots by the Boat Launch in December 2010 to determine if there are artifacts from previous native and settler activity on this historic riverbank site which has seen a variety of human activity over the past centuries, and will be subject to park redevelopment within the next few years. 
• Click here to view the initial concept plan (9p PDF) for Marina Park, as contained in the Waterfront Parks Strategy approved by Council in March 2008. 
• There is strong community support (and an economic rationale) for retaining the boat launch in this location in addition to new waterfront uses (e.g. floating boardwalk leading south around the 'Rivergate' apartment building to Saddington Park).  Statistics of boat launch usage have been tracked by the City and local advocates, and show Marina park receives extremely high usage in summer -- the number of visitors is equivalent to 7 tour buses a day!
•  Further public consultation will be taking place in 2011 regarding the Boat Launch prior to any master planning for redevelopment of Marina Park.

Credit River Parks Strategy   ▲

• The 27km of river that flows through the City divides Mississauga east to west, is home to thousands of animals and plants and is a natural wonder within our urban environment, culminating at the strong>Port Credit Harbour.  With over 1500 acres of parkland along the river (including Port Credit Memorial Park East and West), the area has the potential "green" infrastructure to support a strong natural heritage system, all-season recreation, leisure, education and relaxation activities, according to the City.  Click for the City's webpage, including a map of the entire river valley south from the 407, and contact information for any comments.
• A kick-off Open House was held on November 23, 2010 to share experiences and ideas for the natural areas and City parks along the Credit River.  The purpose of this introductory meeting was to gather information and develop a greater understanding of the interests and experiences of those who regularly use the river, its natural areas and municipal parkland.  Background research is still in progress and no decisions regarding the Credit River Parks Strategy have been made. 
•  A further community meeting is planned for February 2011 and possibly a third in July 2011. 
• In addition to the Community Meetings, you can provide your input into the planning process by taking a few minutes to complete an online survey which closes January 31, 2011.  Results are confidential and will be used only to assist the City in the development of the Strategy.

Ben Machree Park Playground Replacement   ▲

• ISF: The scheduled playground replacement at Ben Machree Park is expected to take place over 5 weeks during October/November 2009.  Click to view: 1) Existing playground plan; 2) Proposed playground plan, as revised October 26, 2009 in response to community concerns.  The swings will not be moved and a multi-use path will not be added, in order to preserve the open area and allow for children's safety.  Existing light standards will be upgraded but remain where they are.  NOTE: This is an ISF (Infrastructure Stimulus Fund) project.
  

Natural Gas-fired Power Plants in Mississauga South   ▲

• For information on the power plants issue, go to www.MIRANET.ca.  TOPCA is a member of the Mississauga Residents' Association Network (MIRANET), which passed a Resolution, January 2009 regarding the proposed gas-fired power plant for the Clarkson Airshed Study area.  On Sept. 30, 2009, the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) announced that the plant will be located in Oakville, which is still within the taxed Airshed.  The Oakville residents' associations have a formed the coalition Citizens for Clean Air and created a new website to continue the battle www.C4CA.org.
  

Farmers Market   ▲

• BACKGROUND:
  There is strong community support for a Farmers Market in Port Credit, as was shown at the well-attended public presentation by the Port Credit BIA on Oct. 27, 2008.  Parking issues are being addressed in a number of ways.  Click here for the meeting notice and proposed times of operation starting in June 2009.
• This proposal went to the Committee of Adjustment re usage of the Elmwood Avenue parking lot on Saturday mornings (6:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) on March 26, 2009.   Click here for the Notice.  The variance request was granted.  To view the letter of support written to the C. of A. by the groups of VIVA Port Credit, including TOPCA, click here.
• The BIA will be ensuring that only direct growers participate.  This will be a high-quality open-air destination which people can walk to, while also having the opportunity for mainstreet shopping along Lakeshore Road.
• LOCATION: 200 Lakeshore Road East beside the Port Credit LCBO
• HOURS OF OPERATION: Every Saturday morning @ 7:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. from June through mid-October.
• DOG POLICY: "We do not have a policy banning dogs from the market and will be welcoming dogs on leash.  In fact ... we have water bowls readily accessible!"  -- the BIA
• COMMUNITY BOOTH: Community Groups/Charities can request a market space for fundraising, membership drives, or event marketing.  First come first serve basis. 
  Fee: $35.00.
  Terms: Groups must meet within Port Credit and/or host an event; Have a 'Not for Profit' or 'Charitable' status; Not be politically motivated.  Please book through Ellen Timms, PCBIA General Manager.
• GRAND OPENING: Was it ever!  On June 13, 2009, according to John Cassan of the local Lions Club (which helped with parking control) approx. 2500 folks came through, many on foot or bike, and everything sold out early.  Farmers will bring bigger trucks next week!  In addition to this week's strawberries, breads, cheeses, honey, flowers and veggies, next week will have farm fresh eggs.  Also sold out: shopping bags ($2) and T-shirts ($10) but there will be more!  Click here for photos.
• For more information, or to VOLUNTEER to help, e-mail Beatrice at the PC BIA Office or call (905) 278-7742.
• E-mail Karen Cecy, Coordinator, for information on being a Vendor or providing live Entertainment.
• NOW OPEN FOR THE SEASON UNTIL OCTOBER 15, 2011.

Port Credit Library   ▲

• Click here for the City's webpage about the Port Credit Branch Library.
• RENOVATION: On June 5, 2009 it was announced that the Port Credit Branch Library will receive $2.5 million for renovations (1/3 federal, 1/3 provincial, 1/3 municipal).  Click for information on the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund (ISF) which made this project possible.
• NOTE: On Nov. 18, 2009, General Committee of Council approved an extra $600K for the PC Library renovation to optimize the design concepts, per the recommendation of then-Councillor Carmen Corbasson and City Staff.
• According to the City, this redevelopment project will build on the architectural character of the existing building and renovations will make it a more aesthetically appealing destination.  Improvements and upgrades will include window replacement and additional windows with views to the surrounding park, enhanced public space with improved seating options, accessibility improvements to the entrance and washrooms, addition of quiet and group study rooms and reconfiguration of the staff workplace, carpet, new roof and water/sewer piping upgrades.  These renovations will address the issues of age, mechanical lifecycle and functionality. 
• This 7,600 square foot facility originally opened in 1962, with further renovations taking place in 1992.  Work will begin in February 2010 for a March 2011 completion.  The Library will be closed during this period.  Click to view project updates on the City's webpage.
• The Port Credit Village Project (PCVP) has been actively promoting community involvement in the re-design of the Library in anticipation of the future renovation.  Click here for FLYER regarding their 'community soundings' held in May 2009. 
• The PCVP 55-page Report: Port Credit Library Design Ideas: Sept. 2009 (click to view) was presented to City staff on September 15, 2009, and was also presented to the community at TOPCA's Public Meeting on November 4, 2009.  Click here for PROGRAM including bios.
• Mississauga News article (Nov. 4, 2009): "Residents call for new library".
• The Booster article (Nov. 11, 2009): "Evolving the urban village: Community meeting at Clarke Hall".
• A Community Meeting was hosted by PCVP on November 24, 2009.  The Architect hired by the City to design the renovation of the Library (starting June 2010) described the plans via an automated "walk-through" visual presentation.  Mayor Hazel McCallion, then-Ward 1 Councillor Carmen Corbasson and Commissioner of Community Services Paul Mitcham all attended and spoke to the residents.
•  Click here to view the proposed Lakeshore Road elevation (on the FLYER).
• Click here to view the proposed rear elevation from Memorial Park. 
• Mississauga News article (Nov. 27, 2009): "Residents get a peek at new library".   Excerpt: "Both Paul Mitcham, the City’s commissioner of community services, and [then-Councillor Carmen] Corbasson say further improvements will be phased-in down the road once more funds become available."
• The Booster cover piece (Dec. 2, 2009 - p1): "Library plan for next year".  Includes images of  "Today...Tomorrow..."
• The Booster article (Dec. 2, 2009 - spread): "Port Credit Library set to become a 'Pavilion in the Park'".  Excerpt:  "The building was described as sound and solid with no concern over 'sinking' or any structural issues."
• A Public Information Session was held on December 2, 2009 about the redevelopment of the Port Credit Library along with other local ISF projects in Ward 1.  Click here for FLYER.
• Last day open:  Feb. 20, 2010.  Re-opens:  March 2011.
• NOW CLOSED: The $3.1M renovation of the Port Credit Library is now underway.  The library is expected to re-open in time for March Break 2011.
• NOTE: Lakeview Library and Lorne Park Library are also closed and will reopen first quarter 2011 -- mid-February and mid-March respectively.  Exact dates have not been confirmed or announced..  Bookdrops at all three branches are presently shut down.  Borrowed items can be returned to any other Mississauga Library System location.  The nearest alternate library locations for Port Credit are the Cooksville Library/a> and Clarkson Library. 
• City Press Release (Feb. 2, 2010): South Mississauga Branch Libraries Close for ISF Renovations.  City website: Port Credit Branch Library half-way there.  Click to see photos of the (gutted) interior of the library.  
• SUNDAY HOURS: When the Library re-opens, it will commence with new Sunday hours and be open 6 days a week.

Port Credit Memorial Arena   ▲

• HERITAGE: The City has designated the Arena (the city’s first and oldest surviving public arena) and surrounding lands as a Heritage Site.  Click here for the Notice.  Click here for the City's Announcement.
• ANNIVERSARY: The Port Credit Arena had its 50th Anniversary in 2009.  Click here for the special website and information about the celebration event  held on October 4, 2009.  CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS.
• RENOVATION: A Public Meeting was held on April 1, 2009 (click for Notification) to present a proposal for renovating the Port Credit Memorial Arena in keeping with its heritage and landmark status.  ► Mississauga News article (April 2, 2009): 'Hockey shrine gets a new shine'. 
• The City's direct webpage will provide updates on the status of the project, including the complete visual presentation of the plans. 
• CLOSURE: The renovation began after March 15, 2010.  The arena will open with limited on-ice programming as of January 8, 2011.  There will be no public skates.  There will be full operations by February 2011 and an official re-opening ceremony (date TBA).
• TIME CAPSULE: The new lobby of the Arena will house the PC175 Time Capsule in a special niche that was designed for this purpose.  Click for article and PHOTOS.

Lions Hall, Outdoor Pool and Park   ▲

• With Port Credit Pool reaching an age where significant capital repair and rehabilitation are required, a $7 million redevelopment is scheduled to start in Spring 2010.  There are plans to tear down Lions Hall and rebuild a smaller facility adjacent to the new 25M outdoor pool and a wade-in pool.  The tennis courts will be moved to PCSS.  Although the Outdoor Pool will be closed for the 2010 season, it will be ready for the 2011 season.  Lions Park will also be redeveloped. 
• Click for information on the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program which made this project possible.  Click to view project updates on the City's webpage.
• FOCUS: Local residents and representatives of residents' groups (including TOPCA) attended a preliminary focus meeting about elements of the redevelopment and provided their input on Nov. 10, 2009, including the need for accessible public washrooms and a public meeting room.  Click here to view the Nov. 30, 2009 Letter from the City in response.
• A Public Information Session was held on December 2, 2009 about the redevelopment of Lions Park, Hall and Pool, along with other local ISF projects in Ward 1.  Click here for FLYER.
• PUBLIC ART: There was a Public Meeting with particular focus on the opportunities for public art and/or interpretative features in Lions Park on Dec. 16, 2009 at the Port Credit Library (Texaco Room).  A Call for Artists will be forthcoming, based on public input received.
• LETTER RECEIVED: A Letter from Paul Mitcham, Commissioner of Community Services, was sent to local citizen groups on January 5, 2010 regarding the community's request for on-site public washrooms for Lions Park users.  Click here to view the letter.
• CALL FOR ARTISTS:  The City of Mississauga is seeking to commission an artist, or team of artists, who can bring an innovative approach to the design of a public artwork (total value $50,000) for the redevelopment of Lions Park in Port Credit.  Submission deadline: Wed, May 5, 2010 @ 4:00 p.m.  NOTE: The City has clarified that this short deadline is for CVs and Portfolios only, NOT for proposals.  Prospective artists will be briefed about the significant public input which has gone into visioning the public art component for Lions Park.  Full details can be viewed at: http://www.mississauga.ca/file/COM/FA_49_595_10.pdf. 

Port Credit Lighthouse   ▲

• The Lighthouse underwent renovations during the summer of 2009, including re-surfacing, and a new roof.  It re-opened in September 2009.  Click for press release.

Arts and Culture Master Plan Review   ▲

• The City has conducted its first-ever Arts and Culture Master Plan Review (ACMPR), in order to identify a sustainable, long-term vision and five-year plan to guide strategic planning, action and investment in arts, culture and heritage.  Click here for more information on the City's website.
• TOPCA collaborated with other member groups of VIVA Port Credit to provide input to the Review.  This was originally submitted in Jan. 2009 and has now been revised.  Click here to view VIVA PC's submission on Public Culture in Port Credit (includes pictures; takes a minute to download).
• The City's complete Draft Master Plan is now posted (click to view). 
• TOPCA collaborated with Heritage Mississauga and the Port Credit Village Project to write and submit a Joint Response to the City's Draft Master Plan on April 30, 2009.  This response contains specific comments on the Master Plan's 44 recommendations including funding, administration and cultural initiatives in Port Credit and elsewhere in the City.
• On June 3, 2009 the Corporate Report on public response to the Arts and Culture Master Plan was presented to the General Committee of Council along with the revised Culture Master Plan, as it will now be called.  Click here for other supporting documents, including public feedback and an Executive Summary. 
• The Culture Master Plan was approved by Council on June 10, 2009.  Click here for the City's press release.

Graffiti in Port Credit   ▲

• Residents of Port Credit have noticed an increase in graffiti and vandalism on public, private and commercial property. The City has provided Hotline Numbers for reporting of incidents: Parks & City-owned property/buildings: (905) 615-4060 (direct line to Corporate Security which generates a work order and makes the Police aware).  For roads and signs: (905) 896-5655 - menu option #6  (direct line to Compliance and Licensing).  Click for a Fact Sheet on Graffiti Prevention & Control produced by the Peel Regional Police.
• TOPCA received the following update from then-Councillor Carmen Corbasson on August 25, 2010: "As you are aware, graffiti has been an on-going problem in the Port Credit and surrounding area for quite some time.  I am pleased to advise you that Peel Regional Police have arrested and charged an individual with fourteen Counts of Mischief relating to the graffiti, gang tagging and break & enters that occurred last month in the Angelene Street area (map).  It is expected that additional arrests are forthcoming. ... Contact my office and Peel Regional Police if you have any concerns and information you would like to share." 

Port Credit Public Mural Project   ▲

• The City has commissioned historical murals under the Lakeshore Road Bridge at the Credit River to discourage graffiti in the harbour area, especially at the base of the Lighthouse. The themes are the historical salmon fishery, and John Miller, the original Lighthouse keeper.
• A juried competition was held to select an artist to create the murals in August 2008.  Click here to view the Call for Interest issued by the City for the Mural Competition.
• TOPCA, as a member group of VIVA Port Credit, was involved in the selection of the mural themes and the evaluation of the submissions.  All the member groups of VIVA Port Credit supported the proposal submitted by Walter Ruston and Elva Hook, and the painting was done in September 2008.
• Click here to read the article in the Mississauga News: "Artists brighten up dark, graffiti covered bridge".
• Click here for pictures.  Note that an original concept sketch is included.

Tree Stump Transformations   ▲

• Currently the city marks dead trees for removal and always attempts to replace the trees. In some cases, the trees are not replaced and tree stump transformations can create a positive impact on the community in these situations.
• The City has a pilot tree sculpture program. One of the trees involved is in front of the Port Credit Library at the entrance to the business district in full view of Lakeshore Road and near the famous mouth of the Credit River where salmon once flourished. Port Credit's ash tree stem will be transformed into a "salmon" spawning upstream.
• This information was provided by Joanne Foote, Parks Program Coordinator, Community Services – Parks. For more information phone Joanne at 905-615-3200 x 5346 or e-mail: joanne.foote@mississauga.

Port Credit: The Projects (Art Exhibition)   ▲

• During July 2009, an exhibition entitled: Port Credit: The Projects was sponsored by: Blackwood Gallery and Port Credit Village Project.  Click here for Exhibition webpage (with details of all the 'Projects')
• TThis local art exhibition / installation aimed to re-imagine Port Credit by engaging with the issues and concerns of the Port Credit community through the lens of contemporary art.  The 8 selected artists provided a perspective on the socio-economic engines of an area undergoing rapid transformations.  They addressed issues familiar to Port Credit in the form of hypothetical projects, installations and performative interventions scattered throughout the former offices of an architectural firm (Adamson Associates) at 55 Port Street East (click for map) by the entrance to St. Lawrence Park.  The contemporary artists offered unconventional entry points into a series of issues which are part of everyday life in Port Credit (e.g. swans).
• NOTE:  From Curator Christof Migone:  "I also want to take this opportunity to highlight the essay that was commissioned for this project. The essay by John Armstrong titled 'No Stars: A Short History of Industry and Small Business in Port Credit over Some of the Past Century' presents a personal narrative as well as considerable research in local history.  It is an engrossing read, and not without its share of drama."  (available on the Exhibition webpage)
• CALL FOR ARTISTS: The Blackwood Gallery presented a second edition of The Projects: Port Credit in July 2010.  There was a call for artists based in Port Credit.  Click here to view the Notice.

Snow Clearing of Paths in the Waterfront Parks   ▲

• The winter of 2007/08 had more snowfall than the previous two years combined, and the issue of plowing public pathways has become all the more urgent for pedestrians who wish to maintain a healthy lifestyle year-round by enjoying the Waterfront Trail and walking to local shops.
• Starting with Winter 2008/09 there was snow plowing of public paths in the Waterfront Parks and over the Lakeshore Pedestrian Bridge at the Credit River, as TOPCA and so many residents and visitors have requested.

Outdoor Skating in Memorial Park   ▲

• Starting in Winter 2009, an annual outdoor skating rink is provided at Port Credit Memorial Park (map) in the area west of the Arena parking lot, north of the playground, south of the skateboard park.  This family-oriented rink is installed and ready for operation (depending on the weather) by January each year.
• The rectangular rink is approximately 64 feet wide X 80 feet long. 
• Volunteers are needed to help with the maintenance of this natural rink.  A heated hut, supplies (e.g. shovels) and access to water will be provided.  Call the Parks and Recreation Dept. at (905) 615-3200 ext. 3780 to register for this exciting project that will benefit our whole community.  We've asked for this rink -- let's help make it great!
• Volunteers Nick Marcinkiewicz, Steven Jenkinson and Ric Cooper did a great job to get the rink going in 2009, and reported: "It may be a bit bumpy but we're trying !!"  During the January/February cold spell, it was a wonderful sight to see people out skating.  Thanks guys!
• Click to view the frame and hut in place, awaiting cold weather (Dec. 14, 2008.)
• Click to view PHOTOS of the rink in action (January 2009).
• Click to view PHOTOS and VIDEO of the PC175 Pond Hockey Tournament at the Port Credit Memorial Park outdoor rink on January 9, 2010.
• December 2010: The outdoor rink is available again this winter, thanks to the community's faithful volunteers.  The painted rink hut was done by local high school students, aided by Port Credit artist Anna Claudette Ferguson (Facebook).
• NOTE: The Credit River is also used for skating when it is cold enough. 
  ► Mississauga News article (Dec. 23, 2010): Youngsters enjoy Canada's game.  Excerpt: "Below-freezing temperatures this month are good for at least one thing: frozen ponds." (includes photo). 
  ► Press Release (Jan. 13, 2011): Skating Safety Alert: City Cautions Residents About Skating On Natural Bodies of Water.   

Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens   ▲

• Port Credit is home to Mississauga's first public 'city garden'.  It is located on the west side of Godfrey's Lane.  Click for map.
• Members of the TOPCA Executive attended an Open House on Jan. 30, 2008, concerning the completion of the Waterfront Trail in Port Credit, through Rhododendron Gardens. Click here to read TOPCA’s letter in response.
• The upgrades to the Waterfront Trail and significant improvements to this City Garden were completed in the Fall of 2008, and residents are invited to comment during the subsequent assessment process.
• The City has renamed Rhododendron Gardens (which used to be called Cranberry Cove Park).  Click here for the Corporate Staff Report with background information, dated Jan. 22, 2009.
• The City of Mississauga honoured the memory of former Ward 1 Councillor Harold Kennedy by dedicating a plaque in his name at the Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens on June 6, 2009.  Mississauga News article: City memorializes one of its own.
• On Sept. 30, 2009, Council passed the following recommendation: "That the Realty Services Section of the Corporate Services Department be authorized to enter into negotiations regarding the acquisition of 50 Godfrey's Lane."  This acquisition would serve as an essential addition to Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens as it will unite the park parcels which it currently divides.  This is the property to the south of the Garden's south-eastern entrance.  This connection will provide for future park redevelopment opportunities such as the expansion of park pathways systems and trails along the waterfront and allow for much improved public access to the Lake's waterfront.  This reflects a priority in the Council-approved Waterfront Parks Strategy to achieve a connected and continuous waterfront.
• In December 2010,, David Culham, former Mississauga Councillor and head of the BRG Stewardship Committee, sent out the following report: "Volunteers donated 1427.35 hrs in 2010.  Volunteers are involved in every aspect of the gardening operation.  This amounts to 36 work weeks at 40 hrs per week.  I am reminded of how far we have progressed from the start of my involvement in June 2006 after retiring.  I got involved because Marta Brueckner called me with great concern about the terrible decline in the Garden.  She wished to have Joe’s plaque removed because of her disappointment.  Hundreds of rhododendrons and azaleas had died without replacement.  Much of the Garden was without irrigation, the East Garden was in total decline and despite having a naturalization designation on the Tecumseh Creek area, nothing had changed or improved.  No full time gardener was assigned.  The “garden” had returned to a “park” with cut grass.  The City responded in 2007 by assigning Master Gardener Para Kanp and assistant Joe De Coste in 2007 with immediate positive results.  The Stewardship Committee began in Feb. 2008 with a gardening, planning and advisory role to the City staff.  Our “sweat equity” encourages the City Council and staff to do more.  The Committee has greatly improved the level of maintenance with weeding, trimming and cultivating.  Committee members donated plant stock from their gardens and one member purchased all of the roses and peonies. We have planted hundreds of donated wild flowers and shrubs out of the City’s naturalization budget."  strong>Want to get involved?  Check out the BRG website for info and photos about the Gardens and how to volunteer in 2011.

Port Credit Polar Bear Club   ▲

NOTE: For information about the Port Credit Polar Bear Dip on January 1, 2012, click here.

• Why not plan to join the Port Credit Polar Bear Club for their Annual charitable dip in the Lake on New Years Day?  LAKEFRONT PROMENADE PARK at the foot of Hampton Crescent south of Lakeside Avenue (map).
• The Dip is sponsored by The Brogue Inn; Proprietor: Tommy Donnelly; call (905) 278-8444.  Pledge sheets available at The Brogue.  Nurses and firefighters on hand at the Dip.
• 2009 was the 6th year organized by co-founders Mike Bauer & Dave Emms, with over $6,000.00 raised for Interim Place through the generosity of the local community.  Click for some ch-ch-chilling PHOTOS taken on January 1, 2009 at Lakefront Promenade Park (point of entry) by Port Credit photographer Sean Murphy. 
• Mississauga News article (Jan. 2, 2010): Frigid fun for a float.
•  January 1, 2011: This year's Dip was in aid of a local Mom and Dad needing assistance to stay in L.A. for 2 weeks for their child's kidney transplant in February 2011.  Click here for the family's story.  After the dip, $2.00 chili dinner fundraiser at the Brogue, along with silent auction and 50-50 draw.  Click here for FLYER.  UPDATE: $10,000 was raised.

Saddington Stargazers Group   ▲

• The Stargazers' Group of Mississauga have been stargazing at Saddington Park in Port Credit and showing the skies to members of the public through their telescopes for the past few years, especially on Saturday nights.  J.C. SADDINGTON PARK (map) is one of the best stargazing spots in the entire GTA because of its low lighting and position on the lake.  NOTE: Sometimes the Group does 'sidewalk astronomy' in other locations!  Click here for website, which gives viewing times and planned dates for clear nights.

Promoting a Walking and Biking Culture in Port Credit and Mississauga South   ▲

• TOPCA members participated in a Walk and Bike Workshop on Jan. 17, 2008, sponsored by VIVA Port Credit (TOPCA is a member group), and facilitated by Walk & Bike for Life, a non-profit group (also a member of VIVA PC) that is now located in Port Credit.  Click here to view the Workshop report, entitled: Walking & Bicycling: Creating a Great South Mississauga Community (Community Led Action Plan, March 2008).

YouTube Video re: Cycling in Port Credit   ▲

• Feel like biking around Port Credit?  Check out the YouTube video called 'My Peaceful Bike Ride' (NOT!) which features the Port Credit Harbour area, Saddington Park and Rhododendron Gardens.  Hilarious and true look at the serious issue of our crowded multi-use Waterfront Trail.  Maybe you'll see yourself!  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXE0bp5bN68.   
  
  Feel like talking about it?  Go to the Mississauga Cycling website and read the new article 'The Transportation Food Chain' along with the response sent in by Port Credit resident 'Keith', the video's creator.  Join the forum!

Contested Streets: Breaking the Gridlock (Movie)   ▲

• On Feb. 18, 2009 TOPCA held a community meeting to screen the 60-minute movie: 'Contested Streets: Breaking the Gridlock' about creating liveable streets in London, Copenhagen, Paris and NYC.  Click here for Flyer.  Thanks to urban strategist Gil Penalosa and the non-profit group Walk & Bike for Life (located in Port Credit) for sponsoring this event.  Click here for the 5-minute trailer of this documentary on YouTube. 

TOPCA Bicycle Planter Project   ▲

• We are very excited about our Association's public art/beautification project started in honour of Port Credit's 175th Anniversary in 2010, with the support of our sponsors: Imperial Oil Limited and Sheridan Nurseries.  TOPCA has acquired, painted and displayed several painted bicycles around Port Credit and provided the baskets and flowering plants.  City Parks staff performed the physical installations.  TOPCA volunteers watered and maintained the flowers all summer.  During the Fall period, volunteers maintained dried arrangements in the baskets, utilizing natural items found along the PC Waterfront Trail and local gardens.  In December, the baskets were furbished with evergreen arrangements for the winter. 
  ► Click for the 'TOPCA Summer Bike Postcard' to view all the bikes.
• On Earth Day 2011, volunteers planted pansies in the baskets.  Paint touch-ups are planned.  Summer plantings will follow.
• The City has mapped the locations of the Port Credit painted bike planters on the Parks webpage.  Click for the INTERACTIVE MAP to display the TOPCA bike planters by location!  Thanks to Joanne Foote in the Parks Dept. for supporting this ongoing volunteer effort! 
• SPECIAL NOTE:  Some residents have been concerned about the purpose for these bikes.  These are NOT memorial bikes.  There is a world-wide custom to place painted all-white (or 'ghost') bikes at locations where cyclists have been killed: www.ghostbikes.org.  BUT, the Port Credit bike project is to celebrate our walkable/bikeable community, and white paint has been avoided!
• ► BIKE PLANTER PRINT:  TOPCA is offering glossy 12x18 inch colour prints (on heavy stock) of our 'homespun' Summer 2010 bike installations (see image below). Impressionable Gifts (905) 271-8999 has kindly offered to have quantities (unframed) available for pick-up.  Thanks to the quick local turnaround provided by Options (which provides employment training to individuals with an intellectual disability, right here in Port Credit), we can fill orders as necessary.  Each print is a GIFT with your $5.00 donation (or more if you wish!) which is a whimsical way to support local TOPCA initiatives including the 2nd Annual Port Credit Cycling Tour in June 2011 (date TBA).  Orders may also be placed by e-mailing topca@topca.net with your name, address, phone and # of copies required.  NOTE:  A $5.00 donation does not constitute TOPCA membership, but please do consider joining TOPCA while you're at it!  Click for Membership info.
  
  

TOPCA Cycling Tour of Port Credit   ▲

• TOPCA's 1st Annual Cycling Tour was held on June 27, 2010 to highlight all the special places in our walkable/bikeable village, followed by a community picnic.  This was in honour of Port Credit's 175th Anniversary. 
• The Cycling Tour was designed as an informal outing by anyone with a bike in their garage who would like to try out a cycling route around Port Credit which could then be provided as a self-guided tour for anyone, anytime. 
• ROUTE: Approximately 20 km and takes about 1.5 - 2 hours to complete, including stops for photos and discussion.  The route includes a ride-past of the painted bicycle planters which TOPCA has created.  There is thorough coverage of Port Credit parks, public art, landmarks, heritage spots, neighbourhoods and cycling paths, with forays into adjoining districts to the East, West and North: e.g. Lakeview (Adamson Estate) and Mineola.  Participants contributed to the fine-tuning of this Port Credit bike route for all to enjoy (including tourists) in the future.   
  ► Click to view the MAP of the 20km Port Credit route.
• Next Tour: Spring 2012 (date TBA).

Port Credit Post Office Site   ▲

• January 2011 UPDATE:  SOLD!  The deal has just closed (January 12, 2011) on the purchase of the Post Office property by local developer Dr. Bill James and son Jonathan James of Centre City Capital Ltd.  Their plan is to work within the current zoning (non-residential, height limit of 3 storeys) to redevelop the site to include a conference centre element to complement their hotel just further south on Stavebank Road (the Waterside Inn), and possible additional uses such as office space and mainstreet retail which could include a bank.  The City will be moving forward with heritage designation of this property now that it has been sold -- the Heritage Advisory Committee will be placing this on their Agenda.  Further details will be published as available.  
• There have been questions about the Coat of Arms removed from the front addition of the building.  The Feds have repossessed their symbol as the building is no longer a Post Office, and the old metal 'Customs and Excise' lettering over the back door is gone as well, but the embedded arms over the front door remain. 
• There has been intense community interest in adaptive re-use of this landmark heritage 'gem', including provision of community space.  See below for background.
  
  ► NOTE: In 2009, local architect Michael Spaziani (MSAi) created a proposed site plan and design (provided pro bono to the community after consultation with TOPCA) to help articulate the citizen-driven vision of mixed-use (no residential) for this waterfront site situated beside the harbour's public realm.  The presentation is up on Flickr with inspiring new 3-D images (click to view).
   
• August 2010: There has been a change of management, with the former CEO of Canada Post (who met with community reps and the Mayor, Councillor and City Staff in January 2010) having now left and a new Real Estate Manager also in place.  Local architect Michael Spaziani (MSAi) has kindly provided information for this latest update, based on a recent tour he had of the P.O. building with a new prospective buyer and Canada Post's realtor.  Significantly, and further to requests of local residents' associations, Canada Post has now completed a phase 2 environmental study and is preparing a Risk Assessment and Record of Site Condition that would give the building a clearance for commercial and residential use without expensive soil remediation.  Canada Post is also working on a parking strategy with the City that might recognize the parking deficiency (possibly 72 spaces) associated with the Post Office use and grandfather that reduction to any new financial/site plan equation to enable appropriate development without having to build height above ground to pay for expensive, excavated parking (if even possible) that would otherwise be required on-site.  Once Canada Post has established these reports and recommendations, they will put the P.O. building back on the market and offer to the (approximately ten) previously interested bidders. 
  
  
• MEETING WITH CANADA POST: A meeting was called by Mayor Hazel McCallion on January 28, 2010 to enable Moya Greene, Canada Post Corp CEO and President, and Ray Simard, CPC General Manager (Asset Management) to receive the presentation by architect Michael Spaziani (MSAi) regarding the citizen-driven vision for redevelopment of the Port Credit Post Office.  Also present were then-Councillor Carmen Corbasson, Planning and Building Commissioner Ed Sajecki and Community Services Commissioner Paul Mitcham, along with Jim Danahy, co-president of TOPCA, and Dorothy Tomiuk of the TOPCA Executive.
   
  The Mayor stated clearly that this is about more than CPC just getting its money: why waste everyone's time going around and around with developers when we can work together and do the right thing by the community, to which CPC has a public obligation.  The Councillor made clear that no variance from the spirit of the Port Credit Directions Report will be considered.  The Commissioners underscored that the City will stand firm in the face of inappropriate development applications, within the strong planning framework which has emerged from the Port Credit District Policies review process.  Jim Danahy emphasized that best adaptive redevelopment of the Post Office site is of the highest importance to Port Credit citizens, who will work in solidarity with the City and seek the cooperation of all levels of government in order to get this right. 
   
  NOTE (1): Federal MP for Mississauga South, Paul Szabo, has been unable to attend such meetings but has written his support for the City position on this matter.
  
  NOTE (2): Congratulations to Michael Spaziani for receiving a Special Recognition Award from Heritage Mississauga, as presented on February 18, 2010.  Michael's assistance to the Port Credit community regarding the Post Office visioning was cited among many other volunteer contributions Michael has made in support of heritage retention and sympathetic urban design.
   
  
• MEETING WITH CITY: A meeting was held on January 12, 2010 with Mayor Hazel McCallion, then-Ward 1 Councillor Carmen Corbasson, Mississauga South MPP Charles Sousa and Commissioners Paul Mitcham (Community Services) Ed Sajecki (Planning & Building) and Martin Powell (Transportation & Works) along with senior City staff and the reps of eight (8) local community organizations in order to discuss future options for the Post Office site.  All parties want to ensure that appropriate redevelopment of this acknowledged 'gem' occurs. 
  ► Local architect Michael Spaziani (MSAi) presented his updated design (provided pro bono to the community) to help articulate the citizen-driven vision.  The presentation is up on Flickr with inspiring new 3-D images (click to view).
  
  
•  MEETING WITH PCLAP: The Post Office issue was on the Agenda for the September 15, 2009 meeting of the Port Credit Local Advisory Panel, as requested by Councillor Corbasson.  Click here to view the Minutes of the Sept. 15, 2009 PCLAP meeting where Michael Spaziani first presented his design ideas.
  
  BACKGROUND:
• Canada Post has moved to a new facility in Lakeview.  The Port Credit site at 31 Lakeshore Road East (map) at Stavebank Road South was recently FOR SALE again (as of May 2009), having been taken off the market in Jan. 2009 after a proposed purchase by Centre City Capital for adaptive reuse as a conference centre (complementary to The Waterside Inn) fell through. 
• The City has decided not to bid on this property, but has indicated the intention to designate the Post Office as a heritage site once it is transferred to the new owner. 
  
• Click here to view VIVA Port Credit's letter to the City regarding the Post Office, including pictures and aerial view, dated July 9, 2008.
  
  
• TOPCA STATEMENT: During July 2009, members of the TOPCA Executive met twice with representatives of Davies Smith Developments who were the latest Conditional Purchasers of the Post Office property.  The conditional period ended on August 24, 2009 and we have received notification from the developer that they will not be proceeding with their proposed 9-13 storey seniors' condominium project and have let the purchase offer lapse.
  
  Davies Smith devoted considerable effort towards community engagement on this venture, and provided professional evaluation tools while seeking citizen input.  In the end all agreed this very special location needs to be developed as a "true gem".
  
  After two unsuccessful private development proposals, it is now very clear that adaptive reuse of the Port Credit Post Office site will require more proactive involvement by the City's Planning Department, our Councillor, residents and other levels of government to realize the appropriate kind of development envisioned in the City’s exciting new Port Credit Directions Report.
  
  This critical gateway site at the junction of the mainstreet (Lakeshore Rd.) and the Credit riverbank must be a focal point for both economic and public needs, not only on the old Post Office site itself, but in close harmony with adjacent retail, harbour parks and the extensive federal port lands to the south (at the Marina).  A mistake here would be very damaging to the overall plans for the comprehensive redevelopment planned for Port Credit's waterfront.
  
  Then-Ward 1 Councillor Carmen Corbasson put this topic on the Agenda of the Port Credit Local Advisory Panel, which met on Sept. 15, 2009.  TOPCA is represented on this Panel.  The Panel's objective was to determine how to inspire and attract innovative development proposals for this unique site.  Mixed land uses, transportation innovations and area-wide, rather than site-specific solutions to issues such as parking, loading docks, etc., will need to be part of the design package to achieve the vision citizens have worked so hard to create for our historic waterfront village.  Click here to view the Minutes of the PCLAP meeting.
  
  The Post Office site is a unique redevelopment opportunity and TOPCA looks forward to a joint, proactive effort to attract an equally unique development proposal for the site.   -- end of statement
  
  
• COMMUNITY VISION: A community-driven vision for the Post Office redevelopment was presented at TOPCA's Public Meeting on November 4, 2009.  Architect Michael Spaziani (MSAi) generously consulted pro bono with TOPCA for this endeavour.  Click here for PROGRAM including bios.
  
  
• HISTORIC PHOTO: Click to view an historic photo of the original Post Office building (without the additions) showing the western face with the original windows. 
  
  
• Images of the Adaptive Reuse Development Proposal created by MSAi for the Post Office Site are now available.  Click to view:
      Site Plan (superimposed on aerial photo)
      Lakeshore Elevation
      3-D image 1 (Rear view, looking North)
      3-D image 2 (Lakeshore Rd view looking East)
      3-D image 3 (Stavebank Rd view, looking West)
      3-D image 4 (Aerial view of proposed 2nd building in rear, looking North)
      Basement & Ground Floor plans
      2nd & 3rd Storey plans
      Related Nautical Heritage images
      Related Adaptive Reuse images
      Pro forma cost/revenue: 3-storey scenario
      Pro forma cost/revenue: 3-storey scenario w/reduced community space
      Pro forma cost/revenue: 4-storey scenario

1% Infrastructure Property Tax Levy   ▲

• City Council approved, in principle, a 5% Infrastructure Tax Levy last November (2007).  Click here to read more.
• The TOPCA Executive wrote a letter to the Mayor, our MP and our MPP concerning the proposed Tax Levy.  Click here to read TOPCA’s letter.
• Subsequently Council voted for a 1% tax levy.  Click here to read the City’s announcement.
  

Lakeshore / Stavebank Intersection   ▲

• The City’s Transportation and Works Dept. is proposing realignment of this intersection to increase safety and efficiency.  Click here to read more.

BC21 Project: Our Future Mississauga   ▲

• On October 24, 2007, TOPCA sponsored a “Community Conversation” at Clarke Hall for over 100 participants from Port Credit. This was part of the City of Mississauga's initiative: Building a City for the 21st Century, and was led by Andrew McNeill, Strategic Leader for the BC21 project. The City has embarked on a series of “conversations” with various communities to develop a shared vision for our City’s future over the next 33 years and hear what residents envision by the year 2040. The session included a presentation, and a facilitated discussion to gather our ideas and input.  Click here for the BC21 Project website.
• On April 22, 2009 Council approved a new Strategic Plan setting the Vision for the City of Mississauga.  The Plan is based on the thousands of ideas collected throughout the Our Future Mississauga community engagement process and is designed to build our city for the 21st century.  Information about the Strategic Plan is available at www.conversation21.ca
• On May 26, 2009 at the Living Arts Centre the public was invited to hear keynote speaker Dr. David Suzuki and see a presentation of the City’s new Strategic Plan.  In mid-June there will be access to Mississauga's Strategic Plan website at its new home: OurFutureMississauga.ca.
• The City's Downtown21 Master Plan grew from the Visioning process of the BC21 project.  Go to www.downtown21.ca for further details.  Mississauga News article (June 30, 2009): "‘Main Street’ to anchor City Centre".
• PUBLIC MEETING: Presentation of the final Downtown21 Master Plan Tues. January 19, 2010 @ 7-9 p.m. at City Hall (Council Chamber)

Recycling   ▲

• The Region of Peel has highlighted some of the problematic non-recyclable items that are being placed in the recycling stream at the curb and in multi-residential units.  Click here to see pictures of the Top 5 Non-Recyclable Items found in the Blue Box.  Of most concern: home health-care waste, household hazardous waste, dishes and cookware, shoes and textiles, and automotive parts.

Watermain Projects in Ward 1, 2009-2010   ▲

• The Region of Peel has provided a listing of infrastructure stimulus projects in 2009 and 2010, including Port Credit.  Click here for listing.  Click here for map. 

GO Transit: Third Line   ▲

• Work is proceeding on the third mainline track between Mississauga and Oakville, which will enable the expansion of GO train service on this busy rail corridor.  For further details on this project click the link below:
  www.gotransit.com/gotrip/index.asp (when you are there, then click on Lakeshore West Line: Port Credit to Kerr St.).
• The placement of the trestle onto the new concrete foundations at the Credit River CNR crossing in Port Credit took place in the early hours of Sunday, August 9, 2008.  Click here for photos.

FRAM / Slokker North Property
    (15 Hurontario St. at Lakeshore Road)   ▲

• Council unanimously approved this development on June 25, 2007. The 22 storey condo and the 7 storey seniors' residences will be under construction soon. 
  Click here to read more.
  

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