Friday, July 19 - Update
Dear neighbour,
This week, Toronto was brought to a standstill by a record-setting rain that flooded our roads, stations, and basements. I hope you are doing okay.
This flood serves as a reminder (like we needed another) that climate change is no longer something we read about in the news, but a global event that affects us here at home.
Given the high stakes, watching the Ontario government’s clumsy, reluctant, and contradictory response to the climate crisis is tough. You can’t go through a question period without the Premier screeching “Axe the Tax”.
Because we have delayed taking action on climate, humanity now faces three huge challenges. We must get to net-zero emissions as soon as possible. We must take on the herculean task of preparing ourselves to survive in a world marred by extreme weather events and ecological disruption. And we need to do all this while coping with frequent crises like the flooding we experienced this week.
It’s understandable why some people might feel despair. I get it.
Here’s the good news. There are very practical and useful measures we can take in Ontario to respond to climate change. From restoring conservation authorities’ power to protect regions from flooding to investing in retrofits to make our buildings and homes more energy efficient to planning sustainably so we can build the homes we need and protect our farmland and Greenbelt at the same time.
Hope and action. That’s my goal. I hope you can join me.
Sincerely,
Jessica Bell, MPP
University–Rosedale
CORRECTION: In my last newsletter, I referenced that the Pride march began in response to the police bathhouse raids in 1981. I would like to make a correction. Pride marches were being organized by the LGBTQ2+ community for years before the bathhouse raids. Thank you.
My newsletter this week:
- Renters deserve air conditioning too
- Respect for LCBO workers should not be a tall order
- Join the fight to save the Ontario Science Centre
- The Toronto Outdoor Picture Show needs our help
- Don't cut the Ontario Wastewater Surveillance Initiative
- Volunteer with us!
|
 |
Renters deserve air conditioning too
Heat is deadly. The 2021 heatwave in British Columbia that led to 777 deaths, many of whom were elderly or vulnerable and lived in uncooled apartments, was a stark reminder.
Every summer, and especially during heatwaves, our office receives calls and emails from tenants sick of living in an unbearably hot apartment because their landlord won’t allow them to install air conditioning, or threatens illegal fees and rent hikes if they do.
In 2021, I introduced a motion urging the Ontario government to set a maximum temperature law for rentals and to allow tenants to safely install air conditioning as a right. Last year, the government met us part way by passing a law permitting tenants to install an air conditioning unit, provided they do it safely, inform the landlord they intend to do so, and pay for any excess electricity costs. However, the government has not yet enforced this legislation, leaving many tenants vulnerable to extreme heat.
As climate change intensifies, we must act urgently to ensure everyone has a safe and comfortable home. No one should have to work, live, or learn in conditions that jeopardize their health.
I have written a public letter urging the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to ensure tenants can install air conditioning units in their homes, and establish a provincial maximum temperature in rental homes. You can support our call here: https://www.jessicabellmpp.ca/tempmaximum.
|
 |
Respect for LCBO workers should not be a tall order
LCBO workers went on strike on July 5. The 9,000 LCBO workers are on strike for better pay, more permanent full-time jobs, and for the LCBO to continue to raise millions in revenue for public services.
The LCBO is a profitable crown agency, raising over $2.5 billion a year in revenue.
The Ontario government wants to privatize alcohol sales and allow big grocery stores to expand the types of alcohol they can sell. This move could lead to massive job losses at the LCBO, and a huge loss in government revenue. The people who will benefit the most from this privatization are grocery store bosses.
Most Ontarians are on the side of workers and want the government and the LCBO to return to bargaining, improve working conditions, protect the LCBO, and let Ontarians enjoy their summer.
You can show your support by finding a local picket line, coming down, and saying hi to local LCBO workers.
|
Join the fight to save the Ontario Science Centre
Without any warning, the Ontario government shut down the Ontario Science Centre, a beloved institution that has inspired generations and served as a vital community hub for Flemingdon Park and Thorncliffe Park.
The sudden closure had to take place, according to the province, because of issues with some roof tiles in the building that could be at risk of failure under pressure from heavy snow.
The firm that designed the building in the first place, however, said it felt the closure was unnecessary and offered to help keep the current site operational and even offered its services to help rehabilitate the iconic attraction for free.
Since the closure, expert opinions have poured in from architects and accountants who have read the Science Centre reports. Overwhelmingly, they have said that fixing the Science Centre is more cost-effective, faster, and less disruptive than building a brand new building at Ontario Place.
This plan is not only unnecessary, it’s expensive too.
At least $650 million of our tax dollars will be used to build a smaller Ontario Science Centre at Ontario Place, as well as a new concert venue, beaches and a large parking garage that will primarily benefit a private foreign-owned corporation.
Let's keep this vital community resource where it belongs and ensure a government that works for the many, not the money. Add your name in support here: https://savesciencecentre.com/.
|
 |
The Toronto Outdoor Picture Show needs our help
The Toronto Outdoor Picture Show presents free, curated cinema events in parks across Toronto every summer, including at Christie Pits in University-Rosedale on Sunday evenings. Their joyful public programming is more vital than ever amid the current housing and economic crisis, but their future is uncertain due to serious funding shortfalls this year.
You can support TOPS by attending their events, making a charitable donation online, or purchasing a special commemorative audience poster.
|
Don't cut the Ontario Wastewater Surveillance Initiative
Wastewater surveillance is the most accurate and cost-effective way to monitor the spread of COVID, the flu, and other infectious diseases – including future pandemic threats. It also helps Ontario residents understand the risk of getting sick and plan their lives.
Despite this, the Ontario government is planning to cancel the Ontario Wastewater Surveillance Initiative on July 31.
Just a couple of years ago Ontario was seen as a global leader in wastewater tracking. Originally a recommendation from the Science Advisory Table, wastewater data from 59 sites has helped local public health units, the Ministry of Health, hospitals, and others understand the trends in infectious diseases in Ontario and save lives.
Everyone in Ontario benefits from understanding their risk of getting COVID, the flu, or other viruses, but this is especially important for people who are immunocompromised and people with chronic illness.
You can add your name to this petition calling on the Ontario government to reinstate the funding for wastewater testing before it's set to expire on July 31 here: https://www.change.org/p/don-t-cut-the-ontario-wastewater-surveillance-initiative.
|
Volunteer with us!
If you're passionate about making positive change in our riding then we'd love to have you join our movement and become an official Uni-Rose volunteer. It's a great way to help support your neighbours, learn more about what's happening in the legislature, meet like-minded activists, make friends, and build community.
We're currently looking for people who are interested in helping out with: canvassing, phone banking, flyering/postering, social media, data updates, and helping plan community events. To volunteer with us, email [email protected].
|
|
|
