- Markham 360 E-Newsletter EP. 151|  October 03, 2025 -
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
YouTube
LinkedIn
Website
Email
Access City of Markham Council & Committee Meetings and view a list of Proclamations at markham.ca
 
York Regional Council:
Live streaming of the public session of Council and Committee of the Whole meetings is available on the day of the meeting from 9 a.m. until the close of the meeting. Past sessions are also available at york.ca/councilandcommittee
 
Table of Contents:
1. Public Meeting Notice
2. City of Markham News
  • Budget 2026 Public Meeting
  • Unionville Go Station Parking
  • Markham Public Library (MPL) Survey
  • Go Green, Go Digital!
  • Congratulations to Marissa Papaconstantinou and Zachary Gingras
  • Road closure: Old Kennedy Road
  • October Circular Economy Month
  • Celebrate Markham Grant
3. York Region News
  • Learning Disabilities Awareness Month
  • YRT Kirkham Community Survey
  • Source Water Protection Week
  • Slow Down Around Farm Vehicles
  • YRP's News
  • Route 522 Detour 
4. Community News
5. Regional Councillor Alan Ho in the Community 
6. Notice of Regional Road Construction

My 2025 newsletter is now live on my website!

 

I invite you to take a moment to read it, which covers important updates about our city and region.

 

You can access the newsletter here: https://www.alanhomarkham.ca/newsletter

 

- Public Meeting Notice - 
Development Services Public Meeting: Tuesday, October 07, 2025, 7:00 PM 

Join us on Tues, Oct. 21 at 7 PM for Public Meeting #2 on Additional Residential Units (ARU).

 

Markham is proposing up to three additional residential units (four units total) on properties zoned for detached, semi-detached, or townhouse dwellings, up from the current limit of two additional residential units (three units total). Attend in person at the Civic Centre or online via Zoom.

 

Learn more: http://markham.ca/ARU

 
All meetings are video and audio streamed on the City of Markham’s website at:https://pub-markham.escribemeetings.com/ 
-City of Markham News-

On October 1, 2025, Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti presented Markham Racing Forward: Budget 2026 of $677.9M. This year’s budget includes a 3.90% tax rate increase, equating to about $54.99 for the average household. With Budget 2026, Markham maintains its record of lowest average property tax rate increase in the GTA over two decades. 

Markham is moving forward with an investment of $160.4 million dedicated to 233 capital projects, including reinvestment in both aging and new infrastructure for our growing community. Since 2022, the City has invested a total of $680 million across 1,036 capital projects, ranging from road resurfacing to flood mitigation to construction of major parks and trails.

As part of the Public Consultation phase, the City encourages residents to learn more about Budget 2026.

 

As part of the City’s ongoing efforts for budget transparency, a Public Meeting is scheduled for Budget 2026 at the Markham Civic Centre - Council Chambers on October 9 at 7 PM. Both in-person and virtual attendance will be available. Pre-registration not required.

 

You can also provide feedback via email at budget2026@markham.ca or leave a comment on our Your Voice Markham Budget 2026 Consultation page.

We understand that construction around the Unionville GO Station may affect your usual commute, and we appreciate your patience during this time.

 

Sign up for Unionville Go Station updates including construction notices at http://gotransit.com

 

Lean more about the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at http://markham.ca/Indy

Markham Public Library (MPL) is developing a new strategic plan to guide our services over the next three years and beyond, and we want your input. Your feedback is essential for creating programs and services that truly meet the needs of our community. Please take 10 to 15 minutes to complete our survey and share your ideas.

Complete the survey between September 8 and October 25 for a chance to win:

Apple AirPods 4. The early bird winner will be drawn on October 6.
Samsung Galaxy Tablet. The final prize winner will be drawn after October 25.
 

On Saturday, September 27 around 3 PM, two adventurous goats named Messi and Neapolitan were spotted wandering near Elgin Mills Rd E & Warden Ave, with no owner in sight.

 

Thanks to a quick call from a concerned citizen and support from York Regional Police, our Animal Services team safely secured the goats and reunited them with their owner. The goats had escaped through a loose section of their pen, which has since been fixed.

 

The owner, who is zoned to keep livestock on their 96-acre property, was reminded of the importance of secure enclosures to keep animals, and drivers, safe. Big thanks to everyone who helped bring Messi and Neapolitan home!

Go Green, Go Digital! Download your favorite digital flyers online so you can skip the paper flyers piling up in your mailbox.

Find all your favourite deals, anytime and anywhere. No paper. No clutter. No hassle. Going digital means saying no to paper flyers and reducing the waste in your mailbox. Ready to go green at your mailbox? It’s easy and it’s your choice!

Make the switch to paperless and stop receiving unwanted ad-mail altogether by placing a note inside your mailbox or submit a request to Canada Post.

 

https://www.canadapost-postescanada.ca/cpc/en/personal/consumers-choice.page?ecid=murl_sdt_733&utm_source=BenchmarkEmail&utm_campaign=Markham_NOW_October_2025_Edition&utm_medium=email

Congratulations to Marissa Papaconstantinou and Zachary Gingras on their performances at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships!

 

We are proud to celebrate their achievements as Marissa reached the podium with a bronze medal performance in the women's T64 100 metres, while Zachary finished fifth in the men's T38 400 metres!

Road closure notification Old Kennedy Road, from Sunrise Drive to Aldergrove Drive, will be closed from October 6 to October 20.

 

Detours will be in place. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

The City of Markham proclaims October Circular Economy Month!

 

Follow to learn how you can support a circular economy at home, school and work visit https://circulareconomymonth.ca

Markham honoured its fallen firefighters at the annual memorial ceremony. Retired Captain Steve Schmidt was added to the Markham Firefighter Memorial, joining seven others who have given their lives in the line of duty, protecting the community.
 
We are forever grateful for their courage, their service and their legacy. We will always remember.
 

New Celebrate Markham Grant: 

 

 

 

Accepting applications from Sep 22 2025 12:00 PM (EDT) to Oct 22 2025 01:00 PM (EDT)

City of Markham Current Opening Position: 
 
New Job Positions:
  • Parks Redevelopment Coordinator (Landscape Architect)
  • Front-of-House Managers – Flato Markham Theatre
  • Pickleball Instructor – Aaniin Community Centre
  • Technology Support Specialist
  • Licensed Fleet Technician
  • Winter Road Patroller/Heavy Equipment Operator(115 Day Contract)
For more information & job position
If you have any municipal inquiry or concern, you can send an email to our Contact Centre at customerservice@markham.ca or call 905.477.5530. 
-York Region News-
October is Learning Disabilities Awareness Month, providing an opportunity to raise awareness about learning disabilities and the challenges experienced by people with learning disabilities and their families. People with learning disabilities just learn in different ways. Learning disabilities impact certain skills, most of which can be improved with the right supports. Simple adjustments to our everyday practices, like looking for ways to integrate accessible communication into our work and processes, can make a big difference to those living with learning disabilities.
 
York Region is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that recognizes and celebrates all dimensions of diversity.
 

York Region Transit (YRT) is conducting a travel survey in the Fairtree East Village Development to understand the community’s travel and transit needs.

 

The survey should take approximately five minutes to complete. Responses are anonymous.

 

This is a survey for residents living in the Fairtree East Village Development area shown below.

 

yrt.ca/kirkhamsurvey.

 

If you have any other concerns about YRT service, feel free to contact my office: alan.ho@markham.ca

This Source Water Protection Week, take simple steps to keep our water sources healthy: Conserve water whenever possible Keep your septic system in good working order Safely dispose of hazardous materials like unused medication, fuels, paints, adhesives, pesticides and degreasers Everyone has a role to play in protecting drinking water.
 
Learn how we all play a role in protecting our drinking water sources at york.ca/ProtectingWater
Did you know there are over 600 farms in York Region? While driving, you might encounter slow-moving farm vehicles on the road.
 
These vehicles, marked with an orange triangle, travel under 40 km/h and may cause temporary delays. Let's slow down, keep a safe distance and pass only when it's safe.
 
By sharing the road, we support our farmers in their essential work! Learn more: york.ca/FarmVehicles
York Regional Police (YRP) News:
 
    Route 522 - Markham Local is detouring on October 7, 2025 at Unionville Commons, 4310 Highway 7 East due to construction.
     
    Visit https://yrt.ca/en/news/522-markham-local1.aspx for alternative stop locations.
    If you have any regional inquiry or concern, you can send an email to Access York at accessyork@york.ca or call 877.464.9675.
    -Community News-

    Markham fair 2025: October 2, 3, 4, 5

     

    Celebrate the season at one of Canada’s oldest country fairs! The Markham Fair brings four days of fun with live shows, midway rides, agricultural exhibits, demolition derbies, monster trucks, and endless fair food. It’s the ultimate fall tradition for families and friends.

     

    Markham Fairgrounds

    10801 McCowan Rd Markham, Ontario L3P 3J3 Canada

     

    https://www.markhamfair.ca/

    York Regional Police Home Security Day at Home Depot

     

    October 4, 2025, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

     

    Home Depot at 1201 Castlemore Avenue, Markham

     

    Visit this Home Depot location on October 4 for discounted crime prevention products, including cameras, outdoor lighting, security film, strike plates and heavy-duty locks.

     

    Learn important crime prevention tips from police officers on site and join our Security Camera Registry.

    King Square's Mid-Autumn Festival celebration on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the main atrium of King Square Mall (9390 Woodbine Ave, Markham)

     

    This family-friendly celebration will feature traditional lantern-making, riddles, games, and cultural performances. 

    Support local. Shop small.

     

    Discover Markham. Join MPL at the Small Business Market and explore 10+ local vendors: from handmade goods and baked treats to unique art pieces.

     

    Oct 11 (Sat), 12-4 PM • Markham Village Branch

     

    Link: https://zurl.co/A45q2

    Join us for the City of Markham's Pet Adoption Weekend in partnership with the Ontario SPCA!

    The Markham Animal Adoption and Education Centre will be open October 18 and 19, 2025, for its adoption weekend event. No appointments needed—just drop in and find your new furry friend!

    Saturday: 10 AM to 6 PM

    Sunday: 10 AM to 4 PM

    Let's give these adorable pets the loving homes they deserve.


    Location: Markham Animal Adoption and Education Centre, 7755 Bayview Ave, Thornhill

    From Prosperity to Preservation
    The Story of Little Hall, Lavenham, England

     

    Guest Speaker: Miranda Ellison Cook

     

    🗓 Thursday, October 23
    🕢 7:30 PM
    📍Heintzman House, 135 Bay Thorn Drive, Thornhill

     

    For more information, please contact:
    Valerie12Burke@gmail.com

    Join Markham Museum on October 25 and 26 as our 25-acre site transforms into a ghoulishly grand Halloween town, perfect for families with children ages 10 and under!

     

    Bring your little ghouls and goblins from 11 AM to 6 PM for a spooky, fun-filled day.

     

    https://www.markham.ca/arts-culture-library/markham-museum/scaryfest-presented-the-friends-of-markham-museum

    If you want to share information with Regional Councillor Alan Ho's weekly E-newsletter, please contact us at sxie@markham.ca
    -In the Community-
    Glad to attend the Markham Fair 2025 Opening Ceremony, and the event will be held at 10801 McCowan Road, from October 2nd to October 5th.
    Attended the 5th Annual Conference hosted by the Canada Chapter of the Chinese Biopharmaceutical Association and delivered the remarks on behalf of Mayor Frank Scarpitti.
     
    This year, the theme is “Empowering Health Accelerating Drug & Antibody Innovation from Bench to Dedside Development”.
    I was thrilled to attend the 2025 Sound of Painting Children’s Art Exhibition at McKay Art Centre, Unionville, showcasing kids’ and youth creativity.
    Many thanks to Don Miller and Belcastro family for their generosity and lifetime commitment to fostering positive change that has left an indelible mark on the people of Markham.
     
    Congratulations to all of them for being nominated to be the Lifetime Achievement Honourees
    Congratulations to D&H Group for launching their Garden Suite in the GTA.
    My office has “slow down” signs. If you are interested, kindly contact me at alan.ho@markham.ca.
    -Notice of Regional Road Construction-

    Current Projects

     

    16th Avenue, from Leslie Street to Kennedy Road
    Road widening from four to six lanes 
    Construction starts: 2026
    Construction ends: 2030
     
    Highway 404 Road Crossing North of 16th Avenue
    Construction of a new bridge to link Orlando Avenue with Markland Street
    Construction starts: Summer 2023
    Anticipated completion: Late 2026
     
    Leslie Street from Highway 407 to Elgin Mills Road East
    Road rehabilitation
    Construction start: Late spring 2025
    Construction end: Late summer 2025
     
    Major Mackenzie Drive East from McCowan Road to Highway 48
    Road rehabilitation
    Construction start: Late spring 2025
    Construction end: Mid-summer 2025
     
    Warden Avenue south of Major Mackenzie Drive East
    Culvert rehabilitation
    Construction starts: Early summer 2025
    Construction ends: Summer 2026
     
    York Durham Line from Bethesda Sideroad to 14th Avenue
    Road resurfacing
    Construction starts: Early summer 2025
    Construction ends: Mid-fall 2025

     

    Future Projects

    Kennedy Road from North of Highway 407 to Highway 7
    Road widening to accommodate Bus Rapid Transit facilities
    Construction starts: 2026

     

    McCowan Road from 14th Avenue to Highway 7
    Road widening from four to six lanes, including Transit-HOV lanes
    Construction starts: 2028

     

    Ninth Line from Steeles Avenue to Fieldside Street
    Road widening from two to four lanes
    Construction starts: 2025

     

    For general inquiries, please contact York Region Transportation, Public Works, Phone: 1-877-464-9675 ext. 75000 or Email: transportation@york.ca
    For more information: york.ca/roadconstruction
    Regional Councillor Alan Ho
    Chair, Culture & Economic Development Committee
     
    City of Markham
    Markham Civic Centre, 101 Town Centre Boulevard Markham, Ontario, L3R 9W3
     
     
    Tel: (905)-948-5112 or (905)-479-7780
    Facebook
    Twitter
    Instagram
    YouTube
    LinkedIn
    Website
    Email
    View this email in your browser
    You are receiving this email because of your relationship with Regional Councillor Alan Ho, City of Markham. Please reconfirm your interest in receiving emails from us. If you do not wish to receive any more emails, you can unsubscribe here.

    City of Markham Regional Councillor Alan Ho