Aquarium of Canada

Coming soon, to the foot of the CN tower...

The aquarium, which is planned to open in just over a year, is coming along nicely. Apparently, there will be space for 13,500 underwater creatures with exhibits from Atlantic, Pacific, Great Lakes and Tropical habitats. There are plans for 'breed and release' programs for a number of endangered species including Sand Tiger Sharks. It sounds like it could be a great addition to downtown Toronto.

Sneak peek at Toronto's new Streetcars

This photo, taken at the production plant at Thunder Bay shows one of the first of the new TTC streetcars still in production. It is taken from behind and clearly shows a sign that will ward motorists not to pass to the right as the doors are open and passengers are alighting - great idea! I love the current ones which look so retro, but these are going to be much more practical.
The first car is due to be delivered in September 2012 and I am sure that we will see them flying up and down St. Claire - first for testing, and eventually revenue-generating.

email is sent on behalf of Trustee Irene Atkinson, Ward 7

Trustee Atkinson says...

Hello,

In recent days there have been a number of reports regarding facility services, the skilled trades and the cost of individual projects.

As trustees, we will be meeting on July 11^th at an Operations and Facilities Management Committee to be updated on the changes that have been made and the next steps that will be taken to address these issues.  

Over the past few years we have taken action and made a number of important changes such as hiring a new Chief Facilities Services Officer and a new Head of Construction from outside the Board. We are also holding staff accountable for their actions which has resulted in eight dismissals in the last six months.

As a Board, it is our responsibility to ensure that public money is respected and used to support our students and schools. I am committed to making the changes that are needed to build a system the public trusts to deal with issues before they become problems.

Moving forward, we will be working with the Ministry of Education on a deep operational review of Facility Services that will be conducted by Price Waterhouse Cooper. At the September 5^th Meeting of the Board we will report on the steps that are being taken to strengthen oversight and accountability in our maintenance and construction system.