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

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

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

The Mayor’s Budget passed at our Special City Council meeting with very few amendments. You can CLICK HERE to read more about the local and city-wide investments included this year, but I want to highlight a few new wins that happened this month that directly benefit Willowdale. The Mayor provided: $35,000 to address the shortfall facing the Yonge North York BIA in organizing our long-standing Canada Day celebration at Mel Lastman Square . This support ensures the event ca

During our budget meeting, news began trickling in about a school shooting in British Columbia. As I listened to interviews with residents of Tumbler Ridge on the radio, I was transported back to our own tragedy, the shock, the grief, and the heavy days that followed as we learned more about the victim and the perpetrator. In those moments, you remember how fragile life can feel, and how much a community matters. We Love Willowdale is a movement that was born out of the Yon

February marks Black History Month, a time to honour the enduring contributions of Black communities to Toronto, to Canada, and to our shared human story. Black history is deeply woven into the fabric of our city through culture, creativity, leadership, and the ongoing work toward justice and equality. This month is not only about celebration, but also about listening, learning, and recommitting to building a city rooted in fairness, opportunity, and belonging. The City of To

This week’s City Council meeting was unusually short — we wrapped up before sunset! That happened for two reasons: No member motions were allowed, and with the new year and the budget process underway, not all committees have met yet, resulting in a lighter agenda. Even so, there were two key issues I want to highlight for you. 1. A Future with Very Little Visitor Parking Recent provincial legislation has removed the City’s ability to require visitor or accessible parking i

Edithvale rink is up and running! The rink is open 24 hours a day for everyone to enjoy - just bring your own skates and gear. It’s a great spot for skating, figure skating, and hockey. The rink is also looking for new volunteers to help with flooding and snow clearing when needed. It’s a wonderful way to meet neighbours and a great opportunity for students who are looking to earn volunteer hours. If you’re interested in getting involved, please reach out to edithvalerink@gma

I’m always grateful for opportunities to support local businesses that invest in our community and serve residents day in and day out. I’m pleased to share that the Petro-Canada station at Yonge Street and Cameron Street (4630 Yonge St.) has recently completed a major renovation, including the addition of a new A&W quick-service restaurant to better serve North York and Willowdale commuters. This convenient spot is perfect for grabbing breakfast on the go before heading onto