By Sean Delaney
As 2024 comes to a close, we had the chance to sit down with Councillor Anthony Perruzza to reflect on the past year in Ward 7 – Humber River-Black Creek, which includes Emery Village. It’s been a year of challenges and successes, and the Councillor shared insights on everything from affordability issues to exciting local projects.
One of the year’s major victories was the reinstatement of windrow snow removal services, which had been cut from the preliminary 2024 budget.
“Cutting this service would have impacted 262,000 homes, many of them here in Ward 7,” Perruzza said. “For seniors, especially those with mobility issues, clearing the end of a driveway can be a big deal. We worked with the community, got petitions signed, and successfully fought to keep it in place for another year.”
Perruzza said while this past winter wasn’t particularly harsh, the service remains critical for the community’s well-being. He also discussed an expansion of the seniors’ property tax cancellation program.
“Affordability is a real issue. We expanded the program’s criteria to allow more seniors to qualify for rebates. This protects them from rising property taxes, which can be a big burden on a fixed income.”
He highlighted his office’s efforts to host clinics and assist residents with the necessary applications. “We make sure people know these resources are available and help them navigate the paperwork to get the support they need.”
Affordability was a recurring theme for Perruzza who emphasized that the rising cost of living is affecting everyone in the city. “Everything is going up—housing, groceries, energy bills. We need to approach every city decision with the lens of affordability and ask, ‘Does this make life easier or harder for people?’ Every dollar saved can make a difference.”
The Councillor also shared updates on some exciting local projects. Construction on the long-awaited West End Community Centre near St. Basil’s is set to begin early in the new year. “After years of work and clearing hurdles with the Catholic School Board, we’re finally ready to move forward. This centre will be a game-changer for the community.”
Another highlight is the upcoming music school at the Yorkwood Library Theatre. “We’re finalizing details now, and soon, kids in our community will have access to free music and after-school programs,” he said.
Perruzza also touched on the successful lease renewal for the Carmen Stefano Community Centre, ensuring residents will continue to have access to this vital space while the new community centre is being built. “It’s been a long process, but we’re committed to making sure there’s no gap in services for the community.”
Looking forward, the Finch West LRT is nearing completion, with trains expected to start running in early 2025. “It’s been a long journey, but this project will transform transportation in the area, making it easier for people to get around.”
He also discussed the pressures of development in key areas like Weston and Finch and Jane and Finch. Perruzza was clear about the need to balance redevelopment with maintaining the integrity of the community. “Our focus is on ensuring new developments fit into the neighbourhoods and provide real benefits to residents, rather than just adding density.”
Reflecting on the year, Perruzza shared his pride in representing the community he has lived in for most of his life. “It’s an honour to serve the neighbourhood I grew up in and still call home. Emery Village and the surrounding areas are special places, and I want to keep working to make them even better.”
As the conversation wrapped up, the Councillor offered a warm message for the holiday season. “I want to wish everyone in Ward 7 a Merry Christmas, a safe holiday season, and a wonderful New Year. Thank you for trusting me to represent you.”
With significant projects underway and a focus on tackling affordability, Councillor Perruzza is optimistic about what 2025 will bring for Emery Village and the entire ward.