you should get an email from me

br Policy Advice to Honorable Mayor , City of Toronto

Prepared for Honorable Mayor City of Toronto

Prepared by William Jones Sr , Policy Analyst Economic Development Department City of Toronto Introduction `The social and economic future of countries is increasingly being determined in their urban areas .Two alternative scenarios are emerging : one of cities characterized by increasing poverty , social exclusion and decline the other of inclusive cities characterized by equitable and sustainable growth (The cities alliance : City development strategies ) People identify themselves at the place where they live they experience either

inclusion or exclusion , it is important to recognize the link between well-being and social development . To improve the quality of life , we require strong and vibrant city . Our policy initiatives are aimed at public participation in civic programmes Toronto has been regarded as exemplary city . Toronto has effectively responded to rapid population growth and surge in immigrants , an efficient public system has created a lively , vibrant and diverse city (City of Toronto 2001a CSPC-T 2001 Toronto City Summit Alliance 2003 . However , despite thriving economy poverty and income disparities are on rise , there is greater need for public investments if we are to sustain the growth we have achieved so far . Forty seven percent of Toronto 's population is foreign born , the city has high number of youth and senior citizens living alone and low income group families . We are also experiencing the shortage of housing infrastructure , one fifth of tenant households are spending nearly 50 of their income on rents . Housing insecurity can lead to increased stress Our social infrastructure has been demanding considerable resources which in turn have weakened our abilities and exposed the vulnerable groups like women , Rebuilding this infrastructure should be a priority if we have to sustain Employment This is by far most important factor in determining the success or failure of our policies . We must plan from ten year perspective and undertake some bold decisions even at the cost of short term benefits . Tax structure should be reformed , child tax benefits should be improved , and we must recognize foreign credentials and provide a centre for assisting Foreign trained professionals . Employment insurance benefits should be enhanced . Emphasis must be laid on training and retraining programs especially for women having little or no work experience , minimum labor standards should be enforced and atmosphere of collective bargaining must be established Level...