CITY COUNCILLOR
LILY CHENG
WILLOWDALE WARD 18

The newly renovated Teen Zone at North York Central Library officially reopened! I had the opportunity to cut the ribbon with the Mayor alongside a large group of energized teens. They were very excited and we should be excited that we have this amazing space that provides free healthy snacks, video games and free craft activities. Teens call this their safe third space. How great it is that after school there are teens in Willowdale that rush to our library! Reopened just i

On April 8, I hosted a Community Leaders Dinner at North York Civic Centre, bringing together local leaders, residents, and Mayor Olivia Chow for an evening of meaningful discussion on the future of Willowdale. Mayor Chow shared updates on key city priorities, including improvements to emergency response times, ongoing investments in transit and infrastructure, and efforts to strengthen Toronto’s financial position through a new fiscal framework. She also highlighted programs

It was great to welcome approximately 30 condominium property managers and board members to an engaging and interactive luncheon. The discussion provided a valuable opportunity to discuss key local concerns, ongoing initiatives, and opportunities for collaboration in Willowdale’s growing high-rise community. I am grateful to the Willowdale Lawn Bowling Club for allowing us to use their space for this productive event. Condo property managers who did not receive an invitation

It was a bittersweet meeting as we gathered as the Yonge Street Tragedy Memorial Steering Committee last week to discuss the next phase of work on the long-term memorial. This group of amazing community members played a pivotal role in caring for our community after the tragedy and has stayed engaged over the years. Many of us have continued to deepen our work in the service of Willowdale, inspired by the way the community came together after such a difficult moment. I was gl

The federal government has renewed and expanded funding for Toronto’s youth crime prevention efforts, committing $157.5 million over the next three years through the Building Safer Communities Fund just as previous funding to our City’s efforts was set to expire. Announced by Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree alongside Mayor Olivia Chow in Scarborough, the investment supports programs that address the root causes of youth violence by connecting at-risk youth and fami

On March 16, North York Central Library re-opened its newly renovated Teen Zone after a year-long closure, just in time for March Break. Beautifully refreshed with new flooring, shelving, and furniture, the modernized space offers clean sightlines and integrates well with the building’s architecture. It houses the branch’s teen collection and includes a teen programming area, a gaming room, a new Learning Centre, a customer service desk, printing services and a study area. F

After more than a year of study, consultation, and technical analysis, the North York at the Centre - Final Options and Directions Report was tabled at the Planning and Housing Committee on February 26. We are so grateful to the 22 residents who showed up, virtually and in person, to make deputations. Your voices matter, and it’s always key for staff to hear directly from those most impacted by the policies we pass. This Secondary Plan update will establish a new long-term

Last week, my office co-hosted the 7th Climate Action Roundtable in collaboration with Climate Neighbours North York . We had an incredible discussion on 5 key themes: Smart Commuting and Active Transportation Reducing Waste and Plastics Community and Corporate Accountability (“Bring Your Own Ideas”) Improving Indoor Air Quality and Energy Efficiency Growing Food and Pollinator Gardens Supporting Bike Lanes and Safe Cycling Thank you to all the fantastic organizations that jo

On February 21, Ukrainians in North York (UINY) will hold a special gathering to mark the 4th anniversary of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a moment that carries deep sorrow, strength, and resilience for so many in our community. Since the very beginning of the war, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside UINY founder Helen Shumilova , including co-hosting welcome tea gatherings for Ukrainians newly arrived in our city. From those first moments of uncertainty, Helen

This February, for the first time, the City of Toronto officially proclaimed Chinese Heritage Month , aligning with the Province of Ontario and the Toronto District School Board ! This recognition honours a community whose contributions are foundational to our city’s past, present, and future. Chinese communities have been part of Toronto’s story since the 1870s, shaping neighbourhoods, building businesses, enriching arts, culture, and cuisine, and contributing through advo