Mayor Dave Ryan It's Time for Action - Mayor's Breakfast Address Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade March 21, 2019
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Mayor Dave Ryan
It’s Time for Action
Mayor’s Breakfast Address
Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade
March 21, 2019
pickering.caGood morning and thank you all for joining us today.
While I always look forward to this annual event, I am very eager to provide you
with one of the most important updates that we have had in years.
Before I continue, I would like to make some key introductions:
Regional Councillor, Ward 1, Kevin Ashe
Regional Councillor, Ward 3, David Pickles
City Councillor, Ward 1, Maurice Brenner
City Councillor, Ward 2, Ian Cumming
and City Councillor, Ward 3, Shaheen Butt
I know the elections were several months ago, but this is the first time in
Pickering’s history that every single Member of Council was returned.
The election results are a testament that our community has emphatically
embraced all of the wonderful things that we have accomplished together, as well
as the numerous exciting projects on the horizon.
More importantly, our residents recognize that we are positioning Pickering for a
generation of progress, success, and prosperity.
What may have seemed like daunting and distant a few years ago is tantalizingly
within our grasp as I speak to you today.
I would like to make special mention of John Henry’s election as Regional Chair.
Through the years, John has been a strong supporter of Pickering and Ajax and
our various projects.
And in his new capacity, he will be an even more key and influential figure as we
try and move our agenda forward.
Further, I want to sincerely congratulate Mayor Shaun Collier, as well as all of Ajax
Council.
In addition to all of the innovative and engaging things taking place in the Town,
Ajax is projecting a new, confident, and enthusiastic attitude.
1Mayor’s Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Address March 21, 2019
I was very pleased when Shaun took the initiative by reaching out and meeting with
me to discuss how Ajax and Pickering can work together in a more positive,
progressive, and collaborative manner.
I appreciate his sincere efforts, and we look forward to working with him, his
Council, and staff for the mutual benefit of our two municipalities.
And since we were last together in this forum, Peter Bethlenfalvy was elected MPP
Pickering-Uxbridge. Over the past 9 months, he has worked to establish strong
relations with the City by supporting all of our endeavours.
In fact, his staff are in direct contact with my office staff on a regular basis to
ensure that we’re both kept abreast of what’s going on.
Speaking of staff, I would like to introduce someone who really doesn’t need an
introduction. Of course, I’m referring to Pickering’s CAO, Tony Prevedel.
Many of you in this room know Tony, because he’s out there in the trenches
pushing our shared business interests forward.
His can-do attitude is infectious and has really motivated our staff, and I am
pleased to spend the next 20 minutes on updating you on all of the exciting
projects that we are collectively working on.
Tony, can I have you and City staff stand to be recognized by the room.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge Christine Ashton, who was returned as the
president of the Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade, as well as its executive director,
Nicole Gibson.
The Board of Trade continues to be one of our most valued partners.
Its executive, staff, volunteers, and members have played a tremendous role in
both addressing and advocating on the issues and matters most important to our
community.
And that’s what this is all about – our community.
Everything that we are doing is to make our community stronger, healthier, and
more sustainable.
2Mayor’s Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Address March 21, 2019
Which brings me to my first topic - Durham Live.
For the past several years, the question of where the casino will be sited has
dominated discussions, social media, and the news.
However, that issue has been settled, and now it’s time to move on.
For this reason, we have a collective goal to ensure that Durham Live is a success,
because it’s not about us versus them.
It’s about harnessing the full potential of Durham Live for the betterment of our
residents, businesses, and greater community.
Yes, Durham Live will create thousands of new jobs, and inject millions of dollars
into our local economy.
However, it still needs to be a good neighbour to the businesses and homes that
are in close proximity to it.
Early this year, Shaun and I, along with our CAO’s, met to strategize on traffic
solutions in and around the site.
If I can be candid… it was a refreshingly civil meeting.
We recognized the challenge before us, so we all sat down and had a meaningful
dialogue on how to best address and mitigate the traffic issues.
While we didn’t resolve everything that day, we set ourselves on a clear and
singular path forward.
And that’s all that anyone could ask for.
As I speak, construction at the site continues at a rapid pace. The foundations are
in and a large crane is dominating the skyline.
We expect to see a tremendous amount of work being done over the next 9 to 12
months to get the casino open as part of Phase 1 of the project.
Durham Region has never experienced this level of excitement.
And it’s not necessarily all about the gaming.
3Mayor’s Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Address March 21, 2019
When I chat with people on the street, they’re enthusiastic about the nightlife,
restaurants, and attractions. They want entertainment options close to home.
I’ve also had many more people tell me that they are excited about the
employment opportunities. We’re talking about over 10,000 jobs upon full buildout.
While that is definitely a huge number, it’s really just the tip of the iceberg.
The Canadian film and television industry provides employment for over 170,000
people from across a broad spectrum of skills and trades including special effects
technicians, set builders, carpenters, make up artists, writers, marketers, and site
selectors.
In addition, the economic spin off is tremendous for local businesses and services
such as restaurants, hotels, florists, dry cleaners, gas stations, car rental agencies,
and many more.
It’s estimated that film and television generates approximately $12 billion annually
for the Canadian economy.
However, there is a dearth of production space in Ontario. In fact, we’ve had to
turn away $260 million worth of production work each year.
That’s a huge blow to our economy. In four years, our province has lost over a
billion dollars in GDP due to these capacity issues.
As such, I’m proud to announce today that we’re going to do something about it.
Ladies and gentleman, the next phase of Durham Live that will soon be under
construction is the TriBro Film Studios.
Upon full build out, this 400,000 square foot facility will house several massive
sound stages as well as space for post-production. It will be the largest singular
film production facility in all of Canada.
Once complete, it will be able to accommodate two major tentpole productions at
the same time.
Tentpole productions is the industry term for large-scale movies that studios
anticipate will generate around a billion dollars in global box office receipts. Think
Black Panther and Jurassic World.
4Mayor’s Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Address March 21, 2019
The state-of-the-art production facilities and adjoining office space will be Durham
Region’s new epicentre for creative entrepreneurs and innovative businesses.
While I am excited that Durham Live will become one of the premier tourism
destinations in the province, I am also proud to say that it won’t have a monopoly
on fun and entertainment in our city.
Namely, we are partnering with Cushman & Wakefield and Pickering Town Centre,
to create a brand new, urban, walkable, accessible and vibrant downtown.
Taking inspiration from Europe’s renowned public spaces, we will construct an
exciting array of new, state-of-the-art buildings and facilities, including an arts
centre, central library, a combined seniors & youth centre, condominium towers,
retail shops, and a boutique hotel, which will all be seamlessly connected via
activated and pedestrian-friendly walkways.
Additionally, through smart and pedestrian-focused design, we will have the ability
to close off sections of Glenanna Road to create an expansive community
gathering space that could accommodate large festivals and special events like a
Christmas market or an Asian-style night market.
I want to recognize George Buckles and his team at Cushman Wakefield and
Pickering Town Centre. We could not have dared to undertake such a dramatic
and inspiring vision without having a visionary partner in place.
What started with the office tower and pedestrian bridge, has blossomed into a
truly, unique and innovative partnership that will see the reinvention of Pickering
Town Centre and the reimagination of Pickering’s core.
In addition, I’m also excited that CAPREIT has publicly expressed its interest in
participating in the downtown redevelopment.
CAPREIT owns and operates the aging rental apartments directly south of City
Hall.
As such, this project provides the perfect opportunity to start redeveloping these
properties. This is significant, because there is a shortage of rental units in
Pickering, and CAPREIT will be able to build new, modern, and accessible
apartments to serve even more residents and their families.
5Mayor’s Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Address March 21, 2019
Demolition of the Sears wing will take place this year, and it won’t be too long after
until we see our shining, new downtown starting to emerge.
Before I continue, I want to make special mention of our much discussed and long
awaited arts centre.
I’ve always believed that civic vitality is intertwined with the arts.
It is this shared experience that brings friends and neighbours together, which
ultimately strengthens the bonds of the community.
Since I became Mayor, it has been both my honour and privilege to support, enjoy,
promote, and collaborate with some of the most talented artistic and creative
people in our country.
Bill Lishman, Dorsay James, Shawn Mendes, Sarah Slean, Paul Lafrance, Pine
Ridge Arts Council, Durham West Arts Centre, Denise Lester Dance Academy,
Durham Tamil Association, the Pickering Rotary Club, and St. Mary’s Arts
Department, along with thousands more artists have all contributed to Pickering’s
vast and vibrant arts and cultural landscape.
I, along with every member of Council, am extremely proud to build this new arts
centre so that our local artists can finally have a permanent place to call home,
and for the pleasure and enjoyment of all our residents and visitors.
And since I am in front of a captive business audience, I would be remiss not to
mention that naming rights are still available for the arts centre.
In 2018, the City launched its naming rights program to seek out and identify like-
minded corporate partners who were looking to align their brand with the City’s in a
bold and prominent manner.
As a testament to the City of Pickering’s strong and positive brand, we didn’t have
to look too far for willing partners.
Within a 9-month span, we were able to sell naming rights to 3 City facilities – 2 of
which haven’t even been built yet.
Chestnut Hills Homes has bought the naming rights to the existing Pickering
Recreation Complex.
6Mayor’s Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Address March 21, 2019
Lebovic Homes will be putting its name on the as-yet-to-be-built Recreation
Complex in Seaton.
And we have also sold the naming rights to the new Central Library to be built in
our new downtown. However, our partner has asked that they not be named at this
time, as they would like to hold a more formal announcement in the future.
However, what I can divulge is that this agreement is for $10 million dollars – the
largest deal for a municipal library in Canadian history.
I know that for the most part, naming rights are great marketing vehicles for
businesses. However, I must publicly acknowledge and thank these three partners
for their confidence and support of Pickering and its residents.
I just have to stress that we’re not just pursuing multi-million dollar deals. We
would gladly consider renaming a number of other popular assets such as
community parks, meeting spaces, studios, and fitness rooms. Whatever business
you are in, we can find the perfect fit for you.
As you may have noticed, we do things a little differently in Pickering.
Our approach is equal parts creativity, open-mindedness, and determination.
The results speak for themselves.
A great example of this is the Pickering Innovation Corridor.
For example, the City purchased prime acreage from the Province in order to
directly market, control, sell, and manage the investment opportunity.
We also front-ended the infrastructure costs to make the lands more appealing.
As such, I’m proud to inform you that we have just recently got the final sign off
with Kubota Canada.
Although negotiations went on for over a year, it was definitely worth the time,
energy, and effort, because construction can now commence on Kubota’s new $67
million, 565,000 square foot, state of the art facility and head office.
7Mayor’s Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Address March 21, 2019
Now that we’ve completed this deal, we can focus more attention on some of the
other companies looking to call our Innovation Corridor home - like the Behar
Group who is looking to build a 4-star hotel with an adjoining convention centre.
And Red Crest Developments who wants to construct two adjacent office buildings
totalling almost 300,000 combined square feet.
Structuring and finalizing these deals take time, but I’m confident that we’ll get
them done.
What’s progressing very fast is the residential growth in Seaton.
The first residents moved in last summer, and we expect another 1,000 housing
units to close this year between Mattamy Homes and the DG Group.
The other large landowners in Seaton are White Sun Developments and Lebovic
Homes, and we can expect their first residents to start moving in next year.
It will take some time to reach 70,000 residents, but we’ll get there much sooner
than you think.
For this reason, we have a lot more work to do.
We need to attract more companies here to create more jobs for residents.
Otherwise, Seaton will just turn into one massive bedroom community.
Our roads and highways are already gridlocked. Imagine having thousands of
more commuters travelling to Toronto and other regions across the GTA to get to
their jobs.
I believe that economic development is the single most important thing we can do
for our residents… our children… and indeed our future.
Attracting more companies to Pickering and Durham Region means creating more
jobs closer to home, reducing congestion on our roads, and freeing up more quality
time for family and friends.
More investment here means more revenues for local government, which will help
us hold the line on taxes.
8Mayor’s Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Address March 21, 2019
For all of these reasons, we need the airport.
The airport will be the catalyst that will attract billions of dollars in economic
development to our region.
The Pearson Economic Zone is the second-largest employment zone in Canada.
The airport directly employs 49,000 people, and facilitates 322,000 jobs across the
province, resulting in $42 billion in GDP.
However, it has reached its capacity.
Now, I’m not talking about flights, passengers, and runways. Although, if you’ve
experienced Pearson recently… well I rest my case.
However, what I’m referring to is economic capacity.
The businesses in the Pearson Economic Zone can no longer expand or grow.
There is no more available land.
And they can’t go to Hamilton or London, because the labour pool just isn’t there.
That’s why I have companies knocking on my door.
We’ve had the president of a large multinational company come to me and say that
they would move to Pickering in a heartbeat if the government were to finally
approve the airport.
However, without that assurance, they are now redirecting their expansion plans to
South Carolina.
That would be a travesty, because we can’t afford to lose jobs due to indifference
and indecision.
The airport lands in Pickering represent a one-of-a-kind opportunity. There literally
is no other site like it in the world.
You simply cannot find 4,000 acres designated for an airport in an existing major
metropolitan area…. anywhere.
People need to know of the untapped opportunity that we have before us.
9Mayor’s Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Address March 21, 2019
Dr. Richard Florida penned an opinion piece, titled “How airports drive economic
growth”, which appeared in the Toronto Star on April 20th last year.
For those of you not familiar with him, Richard Florida coined the term ‘creative
class’, and is recognized as one of the world’s foremost experts on social and
economic theory.
The op-ed described Florida and his colleague’s research, which concluded that
airports helped to propel regional economic prosperity - even more so than high-
tech industry.
Further, having a global hub airport is fundamental to the economic
competitiveness of global cities – like Toronto.
We were elated to read this op-ed. Here was a world renowned expert, and
opinion leader who essentially reinforced what we have been saying for years.
Consequently, we reached out to Dr. Florida to see if we can engage him on our
project.
And on April the 9th, almost a year after his op-ed appeared in print, he will be
speaking to hundreds of business leaders in regards to the Toronto East
Aerotropolis in Pickering, as the GTA’s next economic engine.
If you are not yet aware, the City of Pickering has partnered with the Toronto
Region Board of Trade to put on this exciting event.
I acknowledge that this partnership has raised a few eyebrows, and I get it.
However, over the years, it has become apparent that Pickering and Durham
Region alone do not have a strong enough voice to be heard or taken seriously on
this matter.
Despite Pickering Council passing a motion in support of an airport, and despite an
airport being in the Region of Durham’s Official Plan for decades, our pleas have
been largely ignored.
As such, we pivoted.
We stopped focusing on ourselves, because in the big picture, it’s not just about
Pickering, or Ajax, or Durham Region.
10Mayor’s Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Address March 21, 2019
While the airport will be sited in Pickering, it really is a regional transformational
project that will stimulate economic growth outward in a 30-km radius -
encompassing all of Durham Region, plus Markham, Richmond Hill, Scarborough,
and North York.
The economic spin offs will reverberate throughout the whole province.
That’s why more and more people are calling this project the Toronto East
Aerotropolis.
Coined by Dr. John Kasarda, one of our event’s other keynote speakers, an
Aerotropolis is an urban subregion whose infrastructure, land use, and economy
are centred on an airport.
When examining the comprehensive Aerotropolis model, we’re not talking about
10,000 jobs at the airport site. Rather, it’s more in the range of tens of thousands
of jobs that will populate around the Toronto East airport zone.
As we’ve engaged more and more stakeholders on the Toronto East Aerotropolis,
momentum has started to build. That’s why the Toronto Region Board of Trade
reached out to us and offered to co-host this event.
If we want to be heard on this matter and taken seriously by the Federal
Government, we need to expand this dialogue beyond our municipal borders, and
engage a broader audience.
Combined, the power brokers of both Bay Street and Brock Road wield a great
deal of financial and political clout.
So, that’s why we’re taking our message to downtown Toronto.
And I hope that many of you here will be able to attend on April the 9th.
While I sincerely appreciate your continued support, I have one final and closing
request of you.
Late last year, when GM announced that it would be closing its Oshawa plant,
Prime Minister Trudeau phoned John Henry and asked what the federal
government could do to help.
John immediately replied, “We need the airport in Pickering.”
11Mayor’s Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Address March 21, 2019
The Prime Minister responded, “I thought the community opposed an airport.”
And that in a nutshell is why the airport has not yet proceeded.
Even though the airport would be a huge economic boon for Canada, the decision-
makers are wary of the perceived opposition.
To our detriment, a special interest group has dictated the narrative. And they
have been able to do so, because those that support the airport have been mainly
silent for all of these years.
And if there’s only one voice being heard on the matter, then that particular position
gets taken for fact over time.
Friends – it’s time for us to take a stand. We need to be heard on this absolutely
most important matter.
Sitting on the sidelines just won’t get the job done.
I know that most people in this room are on social media like Facebook, Twitter, or
Instagram. My ask is simple. If you haven’t done so already, I want you to follow
the City of Pickering’s accounts.
We’ve been doing a lot of posts recently on the April 9th aerotropolis event.
As expected, we’ve received comments that were opposed to the airport. And not
surprisingly, there have been a good number of comments from residents that do
support an airport.
In fact, when I and the Councillors were out door knocking during the elections last
fall, the majority of residents that we had spoken to said that they were in favour of
an airport.
However, they remain the silent majority. As typical Canadians, they tend to sit
back and not be confrontational.
Now, I’m not asking anyone here to be confrontational. I’m just asking you to be
heard – especially on public forums like Facebook and Twitter.
And in addition to being heard, share our posts to your networks. And ask your
friends and contacts to do the same.
12Mayor’s Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Address March 21, 2019
I fully expect you to get some push back, so this is an opportunity for you to
educate them.
Remember, sustainability isn’t just about the environment. Rather, it is the balance
of environmental, economic, and social priorities, which makes for a healthy and
strong community.
Keeping this in mind, we can’t look at the airport through a singular lens.
We don’t live in absolutes, and we can’t lead with blinders on.
We have such a broad and diverse community, that we can’t make everyone
happy.
Nor should we try.
All we can do is what we believe to be in the best interests of the community as a
whole.
As business leaders and residents of this community, I am asking you to share in
this responsibility.
After all, this is our community. And this is our time.
Thank you!
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