Larry Perlman For Councillor In Toronto Ward 7 - Recently Updated Pages

Post Election

LarryPerlman — Tue, 24 May 2011 15:57:06 CDT

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Post Election Items

LarryPerlman — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 14:04:55 CST

At the end of the 2010 City of Toronto election there was still unfinished business to deal with in Ward 7 and the City of Toronto as a whole.

Below is a list of deputations, documents and other relevant items for readers. The accompanying document to each item is available at the bottom of this page for download.

Item 1: Deputation By Miguel Avila to the City's Striking Committee, dated December 8th 2010, to request new Council members for the Toronto Zoo Board.

Item 2: Report By City Of Toronto Ombudsman Entitled "Investigation into Processes Regarding a Business Improvement Area", dated November 26th, 2010

Vote Larry Perlman For Councillor In Toronto Ward 7

LarryPerlman — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 14:26:13 CDT

POST-ELECTION RESULTS AND MESSAGE

October 26, 2010. Thank you to all my supporters, and especially the people helping me in the campaign. I met many wonderful people in Ward 7 and learned a great deal about them, their communities, and the quality-of-life issues that would make this Ward a better place to live and work.

As I have said throughout the campaign, if anybody needs to reach me they should feel free to contact me anytime, either by phone (416-556-6407) or email (larry.perlman@gmail.com). It would be my honour to help.

Below is the official tally of votes for Councillor in Toronto Ward 7, as reported by the City of Toronto:

Candidate	Total votes	% of total
Giorgio Mammoliti	5338	43.797%
Nick Di Nizio	3601	29.545%
Victor Lucero	1038	8.517%
Sergio Gizzo	706	5.793%
Sharon Joseph	547	4.488%
Chris MacDonald	491	4.029%
Larry Perlman	249	2.043%
Scott Aitchison	129	1.058%
Stefano Tesoro	89	0.73%
Totals	12188	100%

THANK YOU FOR VISITING MY WEBSITE

Welcome to the 2010 election website for Larry Perlman, candidate for Councillor in Toronto's Ward 7. This year's election takes place on October 25th, 2010.

In these pages you will learn about me, my community work in Ward 7 & Toronto, as well as the many things I would like to do as your Councillor.

And there is much to do in Ward 7.

Residents and businesses throughout the Ward are looking for change, new ideas and opportunities for themselves, their families, their communities and their businesses.

If chosen as your Councillor I have the background, passion, persistence and determination to improve the quality of life in Ward 7.

It is my commitment to you, the people of Ward 7.

If you need to reach me, my phone number is 416-556-6407 and email address is larry.perlman@gmail.com.

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RECENT UPDATES

October 22. The North York Mirror endorsed me for Councillor in Ward 7 today, citing my platform and desire to promote and celebrate the many unique communities that make up the Ward. The editorial is available here.

October 18. The Toronto Star endorsed me for Councillor in Ward 7 today, citing my community involvement and knowledge of finances. The editorial is available here.

October 13. As a long-time resident in Humber Summit I decided to present my vision statement for this community and passed it out at the October 12th candidate's debate in the St. Roch's Parish Centre. A copy is available here. The debate itself was more of a question-and-answer session, but the main components of my platform were communicated well to the 200-plus audience. The North York Mirror posted a sensationalized version of the events, available here. And no, the Police were not needed, nor was the event controversial by any means.

October 9. The North York Mirror published an article on the Ward 7 Councillor race, "Ward 7: Leadership style is major concern". The article can be found here. I would like to thank Victor Lucero for endorsing my ideas of establishing community committees throughout the Ward and bringing in community festivals, integral parts of my platform for the last two elections.

October 7. The election sign wars between George Mammoliti & Nick Di Nizio has gotten ugly. Not only are the signs deliberately similar and plastered all over the Ward, residents are sick and tired of the situation and started dumping the signs in the garbage or on the boulevard. The picture on the left was taken in the Jane/Wilson area -- go get 'em George & Nick!

October 6. A community event for residents of Ward 7, 8 and 9 will take place on October 16th at the Driftwood Community Centre (in the gym), 4401 Jane Street, from 5:00pm to 8:30pm. Residents will be able to mingle and engage with their local candidates. The event is hosted by the Action for Neighbourhood Change, the Good Jobs for All Coalition and the Jane Finch Green Jobs Coalition. A copy of their flyer can be found here.

October 4. A debate has been scheduled for Ward 7 Councillor candidates on October 12th from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at the St. Roch's Parish Centre, located at 2889 Islington Ave. The event is being hosted by the Humber-Islington Ratepayers Association, a relatively disorganized group claiming to represent the Humber Summit community. For the sake of disclosure, it should be noted that I was asked to be a member, paid dues for 2008-9, and attended their two meetings.

October 3. My wife & I volunteered at the "CIBC Run For The Cure" at King's College Circle (University of Toronto), an event we have participated over the last ten years. The event raises funds for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (http://www.runforthecure.com). Photos of us are available in the "Photos" section of this website.

October 1. The "Zero Percent Pledge" event on September 30th was a success. There was a presentation on its key points along with speeches from each of the Councillor candidates. In fact, plans are being made for another event during the election campaign. A short version of the Pledge presentation (in Adobe Document Format) can be downloaded by clicking the file at the bottom of this page (ZPPShortVersion.pdf). A video of my speech in support of the Pledge will be available soon.

September 29. My analysis of the other candidates' campaigns for Councillor in Ward 7 is complete. Please click here to go directly to the web page, or simply go to the "Other Councillor Candidates" web page. An October 9th update has been added for Victor Lucero and an October 4th update has been added for Sergio Gizzo.

September 29. Councillor candidates from 15 Wards across Toronto (including myself) will be coming together on September 30th to announce a "Zero Percent Pledge", requiring staff to keep upcoming budget requests to a 0% increase from prior year's spending. The press release (including particulars) can be found here. Background information, including the need for a zero-based budgeting process afterward, can be found here.

September 22. The platform promise to give back 20% of my Councillor salary to the Ward was featured today in the Toronto Star. Please click here to read it.

September 21. The Ward 7 candidate's debate took place on Rogers Cable 10. Rogers customers can view the video here.

HOW TO NAVIGATE THIS WEBSITE

This website has been designed to quickly and easily access information. On the left-hand side of each page is the website "Contents", consisting of the following:

HOME. Back to this page. A website summary is found on the right.
ABOUT ME. A quick look at my background, including family life, education, work, volunteer and community experience.
IN THE NEWS AND CITY HALL. A summary of newspaper and magazine articles either referencing me or written by me, dealing mainly with issues at City Hall.
SPEECHES AND DEPUTATIONS. A series of my speeches and deputations on various topics addressed to City Staff, members of Council and community groups.
MY PLATFORM. Built on the four pillars of SCIL (Service, Community, Integrity and Leadership), my election platform outlines a series of promises and initiatives I will undertake as your next Councillor.
OTHER COUNCILLOR CANDIDATES. Including myself, there are presently nine candidates for Councillor in Ward 7. Each person has a story to tell and this section will provide my analysis of their campaigns, good and bad.
CONTACT ME. If, for any reason you need to reach me, all contact information is found on this page.

(information for those living & working in Ward 7)

Looking For Free Access To Great Places In Toronto?

Shhh. Do you want to take the family to some great places in Toronto like the Toronto Zoo, Royal Ontario Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario and the Ontario Science Centre but find the cost a little high? The Toronto Library provides FREE family passes to these and other great places, sponsored by Sunlife Financial (see photos below).

Known as the "Museum & Arts Pass" program, people who live and/or work in Toronto can get a free pass for two adults and from two to five children (depending on the venue). All you have to do is go to your local library (don't forget to bring your library card) when the library opens on Saturday mornings and pick them up! Of course, there are some limitations, certain passes are not available in all libraries, and some libraries have opted to hold a draw to make things fair.

For more information, contact your local library or go to the following website:

http://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/museum-arts-passes/

WEBSITE SUMMARY

The Reason I Am Running For Ward 7 Councillor:

I feel It is my civic duty to make Ward 7 a better place to live and do business. I have the background, accomplishments & vision to improve the quality of life in Ward 7.

My Successes:

Solid education (BA in Political Science/Economics, MBA in Finance) & work experience in the Financial Sector;

Regularly quoted in the media on various issues within Ward 7 & Toronto as a whole;

Head of the Neighbourhood Watch in my community & presently a City Representative on Pearson Airport's Noise and Environment Committee.

My Promises:

A voluntary two-term (8 year) limit as Councillor & give back 20% of my salary to Ward 7 for community projects and festivals (decided by you);

Break up the Emery Village BIA, stop the flagpole project, suspend expansions of this BIA & establish a VOLUNTARY group of smaller, more effective BIAs that represent the needs of each business community, not its Ward Councillor;

Divide Ward 7 into 10 distinct communities, each with its own representative (part of a Ward 7 Committee). This committee will respond to the needs of ALL residents & businesses. I will also be visible & available to communicate directly with all members of Ward 7. Period.

A semi-annual Councillor newsletter & a Ward 7 website updated regularly

A Ward Internship Program For College & University students

My Initiatives When Elected:

A cleaner, safer, pedestrian/bicycle-friendly & positive business environment in Ward 7. The notion that certain communities are favoured over others will end in Ward 7. Period.

Promote business initiatives in the Ward by designating commercial/industrial areas as "incubation zones", feed off the knowledge base of York University and provide tax holidays (with the help of provincial & federal governments) for those committed to employing workers in the "new economy".

Protect the rights, needs and dignity of those most vulnerable within Ward 7. I will work alongside our Provincial MPP (Mario Sergio) & Federal MP (Judy Sgro) to ensure that all existing programs, tax credits & services are made available to all those who qualify in Ward 7.

Create more community hubs throughout the Ward & City with the effective use of our libraries, community centres and schools. In the latter case, negotiate with the Province to transfer the TDSB & TCDSB to the City of Toronto.

Support Transit City, bring back the original 2007 plan & ensure the Finch Ave. & Jane St. lines are built as soon as possible. Afterward, negotiate the transfer of the TTC to Metrolinx.

Eliminate the 5-cent plastic bag fee altogether & work with Council and the Province to find alternate revenue sources for license renewal & land transfer fees.

Promote greater citizen participation and transparency by advocating the addition of "citizen advisory committees" for all Agencies, Boards & Commissions (ABCs) throughout the City.

Initiate a "zero-based budgeting" process for the City of Toronto. It will provide transparency, eliminate waste & better justify expenses.

Draft a "Toronto Bill of Rights" and use its fundamental principles to establish an Ethics Committee at City Hall. The Integrity Commissioner, Ombudsman, Auditor General & Lobbyist Registrar would submit reports & answer to the committee.

Expand the number of Council members to include 4 Regional Councillors, each to be Chair of a Community Council.

A mandatory 3-term limit for Councillors

Roll back Councillor Salaries by 10% and office expense budgets by 25%.

Return the Civic Party system to Toronto, as is presently done in Vancouver & Montreal

In The News And City Hall

LarryPerlman — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 16:45:38 CDT

LARRY IN THE NEWS AND CITY HALL Summary: Over the last three years, my name was referenced in the media numerous times. Unfortunately, most stories recently connect me with the incumbent which sells papers rather than reports the real news. I feel it is important for Toronto Councillors to connect positively with the media and be active at City Hall, as it is one of many effective means of communicating with their constituents and Torontonians as a whole. The biggest obstacle, of course, is that media attention towards City Hall has been overwhelmingly negative far too long. If elected, I will endeavour to keep finding the positives and return things to a balance once again. Please note: I do not have permission to provide full copies of the stories below and would prefer to respect media copyright laws. Therefore, I have provided a summary to each reference, including the history behind (and my interpretation of) each article. I would encourage anyone to read the article summaries below, hyperlink to the article if available, and contact me and/or the writers for clarification. http://www.insidetorontovotes.ca/2010/10/north-york-mirror-makes-its-picks/. North York Mirror - October 22nd, 2010 -- "Ward races: North York Mirror makes its picks". The North York Mirror endorsed me for Councillor in Ward 7, citing my platform and desire to promote and celebrate the many unique communities that make up the Ward. http://www.nowtoronto.com/guides/voteto/2010/story.cfm?content=177389. NOW Magazine - October 21-28, 2010 -- "Ward Pick -- Ward 7". Although another candidate was endorsed by NOW Magazine (not the incumbent by the way), I was considered one of the "main contenders" and cited for my opposition to the Emery Village BIAs' close ties to the incumbent. http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/article/876714--star-choices-fresher-faces-for-city-council. Toronto Star - October 18th, 2010 -- "Star Choices: Fresher faces for city council". The Toronto Star endorsed me for Councillor in Ward 7, citing my community involvement and knowledge of finances. http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/elections/article/887077--police-called-to-lively-ward-7-debate. North York Mirror - October 13th, 2010 -- "Police called to lively ward 7 debate". This article, written again by Lisa Queen, tried to sensationalize a relatively calm question-and-answer session by the seven (of nine) Ward 7 Councillor candidates present on October 12th. Yes, the incumbent was late; yes, two bored Police officers were present half-way through the debate and yes, the incumbent deliberately padded the audience with loud supporters (who were quickly and sternly told to remain quiet by the moderator). Each candidate presented a summary of their platforms and answered questions in a respectful manner, while audience disdain for the incumbent was evident throughout the event. The article mentioned my promise to break up the Emery Village BIA, as well as my platform to encourage the community to come together with the Police to eradicate illegal massage parlour activity in the Ward. I passed out my vision statement for the community during the event as well, available here. http://www.insidetorontovotes.ca/2010/10/leadership-style-is-major-concern-in-ward-7/. North York Mirror - October 8th, 2010, p.10 -- "Ward 7: Leadership style is major concern". Lisa Queen wrote another article on the Ward 7 Councillor campaign, this time emphasizing the major candidate platforms and the controversy surrounding the incumbent. When discussing me, the writer emphasized my joint pledge (with 14 other Councillor candidates throughout Toronto) for a budget freeze in 2011, along with my promises of a two-term limit and breaking up the Emery Village BIA. It was also nice to see that Victor Lucero, running against me in the election, endorsed my ideas of establishing community committees throughout the Ward and community festivals, integral parts of my platform for the last two elections. Thanks Victor! http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/elections/article/864444--and-now-for-something-completely-different. Toronto Star - September 22nd, 2010 -- "And Now For Something Completely Different". This quirky article by reporter Katie Daubs lists a number of interesting ideas suggested by select election candidates. My promise, giving back 20% of my Councillor salary to the Ward, appeared to be the most gracious. http://news.nationalpost.com/2010/07/21/doug-holyday-to-seek-repayment-from-two-councillors/, National Post - July 21st, 2010 -- "Doug Holyday To Seek Repayment From Two Councillors". As the person who took the incumbent to the Compliance Audit Committee in 2007, it was disappointing to find that City Hall decided to reimburse his legal fees, despite the courts' decision that the reimbursement was illegal. I do not feel the reimbursement was appropriate (and is indicative of the cynicism prevalent at City Hall) and I will continue to fight for the return of those funds. The writer of this story, Natalie Alcoba, was well-informed about the compliance audit process which was a pleasant surprise during the interview. http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/elections/article/844657--i-told-you-so-york-west-candidates-on-mammoliti-decision. North York Mirror, July 7th, 2010 -- "I Told You So, York West Candidates On Mammoliti Decision". This article asked Ward 7 candidates their reaction to the incumbent withdrawing from the Mayor's race. I was certain he would eventually withdraw from the campaign and wrote about it on various Toronto blogs, calling it the "Mammoliti Ruse". The writer of this article, Tim Foran, put this article together rather quickly and unfairly emphasized the opinions of certain candidates more than others, lacking balance. http://www.thestar.com/yourcitymycity/article/799660--councillors-spending-rules-favour-councillors Toronto Star, April 23rd, 2010 -- "Councillors Spending Rules Favours...Councillors". I was interviewed by Paul Moloney on the topic of incumbents utilizing newsletters, paid from office expense accounts, during an election campaign as a free promotional device. The cut-off date for using these newsletters was Labour Day (7 weeks prior to the election). My suggestion was 6 months, a more realistic time frame. National Post, March 6th, 2010, "Races Worth Watching". The Post provided its readers with a list of the most newsworthy Ward races at the time and mentioned Ward 7. Calling me "A frequent critic of Mammoliti", I have used that quote many times. Of course, the article did not have to mention my third-place showing in the 2006 election, but that's politics. http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/local/article/624486--additional-info-about-career. North York Mirror, February 26th, 2010 -- "Will Mammoliti Stick With Mayoral Bid". Lisa Queen, the writer of this article, did a pretty good job emphasizing the relevant points to the incumbent's (ultimate) failure of a Mayoral bid. She even quoted me calling it the "Mammoliti Ruse", a term I used since October 2009. National Post, January 23rd, 2010 -- "York Region's Avenue 7 Idea...". The newspaper asked readers to suggest an alternate name for Avenue 7, the proposed name for Highway 7 in York Region. My suggestion was "Palladini Avenue", in honour of the famous Ontario Minister and his successful car dealership and landmark at Hwy7 and Weston. I am in favour of naming streets after deserving individuals, unlike the incumbent (see articles 12 and 15 below for a good example). http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/toronto/archive/2009/10/17/and-now-a-trip-to-mammolltiville.aspx. National Post, October 17th, 2009 -- "And Now, A Trip To Mammolitiville". While only scratching the surface of the problems in Ward 7 and the Emery Village BIA, this article, written by Allison Hanes, provides an adequate balance. She asked me for a number of people to interview and some were quoted in the article. National Post, October 5th, 2009 -- Letter to the Editor, "Vanity street names are embarrassing". In September, after I opposed the naming of certain streets after individuals connected to the incumbent at Etobicoke York Community Council, Vanessa Lu at the Toronto Star wrote an article about the controversy. Allison Hanes at the National Post wrote a follow-up piece soon afterward, indicating that certain names were eventually taken off the list. My letter to the editor in the National Post indicated how embarrassing this whole incident was to the people of Ward 7. http://www.insidetoronto.com/opinion/letters/article/155262--expanding-bia-will-only-hurt-community-reader. North York Mirror, October 9th, 2009 -- Letter to the editor "Expanding BIA will only hurt community". It is my letter to the editor, reacting to the article 11 below. http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/local/article/151009--plan-to-expand-bia-boundaries-splits-community. North York Mirror, September 18th, 2009 -- "Plan to expand BIA boundaries splits community". Lisa Queen wrote this article about the community meeting, organized by the Toronto BIA Office, to seek input and support for the Emery Village BIA expansion into the Humber Summit community. Suffice it to say, I was against the expansion. http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/696349. Toronto Star, September 16th, 2009 -- "Name game over streets gets nasty". At Etobicoke York Community Council I opposed the naming of streets after individuals connected with the incumbent. Vanessa Lu at the Toronto Star interviewed me and others, reporting on the controversy. http://www.insidetoronto.com/article/37121--real-solutions-needed-to-tackle-problems-at-rowntree-mills-park. North York Mirror, June 6th, 2009 -- Letter to the editor "Real Solutions Needed To Tackle Problems At Rowntree Mills Park". My letter opposed the closing of this beautiful park to cars. Except for a few events by permit, this park is virtually empty (as the gates stay closed, even today). http://www.thestar.com/comment/article/645879. Toronto Star, June 5th, 2009 -- Letter to the editor "Legal funding sets bad precedent". I was fundamentally against the idea of members of Council being able to get the City to fund defamation suits, feeling that it goes against fundamental democratic principles. Fortunately, City Council did not pass the motion. http://www.adrianheaps.com/2009/05/25/bike-lanes-may-not-turn-their-crank-but-councillors-join-mayors-city-hall-ride/. Globe and Mail, May 25th, 2009 -- "Making Noise At The Zoo". My deputation to the Toronto Zoo Board caught the eye of Jennifer Lewington, the Globe reporter. I was there to advocate for a Citizen's Advisory Committee for the Toronto Zoo. http://www.insidetoronto.com/InsideToronto/Article/73229. Letter to the Editor, North York Mirror, April 22nd, 2009 -- "Councillor's fear tactics source of community angst". My letter was highly critical of the incumbent's offer of peace to Humber Summit business owners after their parking spaces were taken away, given the serious consequences of his actions. I also highlighted serious inconsistencies in the incumbent's statements. http://www.insidetoronto.com/InsideToronto/Article/71910. North York Mirror, March 18th, 2009 -- Letter to the editor "Councillor's legacy not an impressive one". I wrote a stinging letter criticizing the newspaper's puff piece on the incumbent in February 2009. The letter had such an impact in the Ward it was translated into Italian and passed it out in community meetings. http://www.insidetoronto.com/InsideToronto/Article/68375. North York Mirror, December 9th, 2008 -- Letter to the editor "Community enticed to rise up against councillor". One of my personal favourites, this letter was a rallying cry for the people of Ward 7 to fight back against the incumbent's antics. In my opinion, many people stopped being afraid of the incumbent after reading it. http://www.thestar.com/News/GTA/article/450135. Toronto Star, June 27th, 2008 -- "Councillor seeks refund following legal battle". Paul Moloney at the Toronto Star interview me extensively for this article about the reimbursement of the incumbent's legal expenses following my request for a compliance audit of his election finances. http://www.insidetoronto.com/InsideToronto/Article/59452. York Guardian, June 19th, 2008 -- "Residents reject strong mayor". My quick speech to a group of Councillors challenging the Mayor's over-reaching powers was quoted in this community newspaper. My argument was for a party system and an ethics committee to provide checks and balances. The writer, Tamara Shephard, wrongly stated that I was a York resident. Toronto Star, June 19th, 2008 -- "Voices: Drive-through pollution". The Toronto Star published my idea for eliminating line-ups at drive-thrus, specifically charging a $1 service fee or $5 minimum charge. http://www.thestar.com/comment/article/443403. Toronto Star, June 14th 2008 -- Letter to the editor "Other ways to promote zoo". I was enraged when the Toronto Star exposed the thousands of free zoo passes given to certain Councillors in 2007. I provided suggestions (such as PWYC days and using the MAP program) to stop the current use of giveaways disguised as political gifts. http://www.now.uz/news/story.cfm?content=162691&archive=27,33,2008. Now Magazine, April 17-23, 2008 -- Letter to the editor "Skid mark on your lid". One of my pet peeves in the community are children riding bicycles without helmets. I criticized Now Magazine for their Bike Issue, as most of the photographed bicyclists were helmet-less. Toronto Star, April 19th, 2008 -- Letter to the editor "A lose-lose situation". As the City lost $293,000 from a vending machine operator that went bankrupt, I criticized the need to have vending machines at recreation centres AT ALL, as it does not promote good health. http://unhyphenatedcanadian.blogspot.com/2008/04/kingdom-of-toronto.html. Toronto Star, April 7th, 2008 -- Letter to the editor "Our own absolute monarch". I received a great deal of attention from this letter criticizing David Miller's attempts at getting greater powers as Mayor, a move I considered Machiavellian. http://www.thestar.com/News/GTA/article/310555. Toronto Star, March 8, 2008 -- "Readers' TTC Complaints: Garbage". My suggestion at the time to put back garbage receptacles at subway stations was implemented shortly afterward. The power of the press was effective in this case. http://www.economist.com/node/20014911. Economist Magazine, August 6th, 2007 -- Letter to the editor "Nice, but broke". By far my favourite letter to the editor, this commentary on Toronto's financial and political woes received a great deal of attention. My best line: "With luck, Toronto's political leadership will wake up and develop greater expertise in economic and public-sector management before its too late and the great "sucking-sound" of investment dollars moves westward." It is true, even today. www.sonali.ca/media/torstareditorialpicks.pdf. Toronto Star, November 8th, 2006 -- "Star's Selection For City Council". The Toronto Star endorsed me for Ward 7 Councillor in the 2006 election, mentioning my service in charity and community work. http://clients.andrewmallis.com/decisiontoronto2006/decisiontoronto2006/?q=node/528. North York Mirror, November 8th, 2006 -- "Toronto Community News Election Endorsements". The North York Mirror endorsed me for Councillor in Ward 7 as well, citing my potential as a community advocate and the national attention brought to the dangers of pocket bikes.

LARRY IN THE NEWS AND CITY HALL

Summary:

Over the last three years, my name was referenced in the media numerous times. Unfortunately, most stories recently connect me with the incumbent which sells papers rather than reports the real news.

I feel it is important for Toronto Councillors to connect positively with the media and be active at City Hall, as it is one of many effective means of communicating with their constituents and Torontonians as a whole. The biggest obstacle, of course, is that media attention towards City Hall has been overwhelmingly negative far too long. If elected, I will endeavour to keep finding the positives and return things to a balance once again.

Please note: I do not have permission to provide full copies of the stories below and would prefer to respect media copyright laws. Therefore, I have provided a summary to each reference, including the history behind (and my interpretation of) each article. I would encourage anyone to read the article summaries below, hyperlink to the article if available, and contact me and/or the writers for clarification.

http://www.insidetorontovotes.ca/2010/10/north-york-mirror-makes-its-picks/. North York Mirror - October 22nd, 2010 -- "Ward races: North York Mirror makes its picks". The North York Mirror endorsed me for Councillor in Ward 7, citing my platform and desire to promote and celebrate the many unique communities that make up the Ward.
http://www.nowtoronto.com/guides/voteto/2010/story.cfm?content=177389. NOW Magazine - October 21-28, 2010 -- "Ward Pick -- Ward 7". Although another candidate was endorsed by NOW Magazine (not the incumbent by the way), I was considered one of the "main contenders" and cited for my opposition to the Emery Village BIAs' close ties to the incumbent.
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/article/876714--star-choices-fresher-faces-for-city-council. Toronto Star - October 18th, 2010 -- "Star Choices: Fresher faces for city council". The Toronto Star endorsed me for Councillor in Ward 7, citing my community involvement and knowledge of finances.
http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/elections/article/887077--police-called-to-lively-ward-7-debate. North York Mirror - October 13th, 2010 -- "Police called to lively ward 7 debate". This article, written again by Lisa Queen, tried to sensationalize a relatively calm question-and-answer session by the seven (of nine) Ward 7 Councillor candidates present on October 12th. Yes, the incumbent was late; yes, two bored Police officers were present half-way through the debate and yes, the incumbent deliberately padded the audience with loud supporters (who were quickly and sternly told to remain quiet by the moderator). Each candidate presented a summary of their platforms and answered questions in a respectful manner, while audience disdain for the incumbent was evident throughout the event. The article mentioned my promise to break up the Emery Village BIA, as well as my platform to encourage the community to come together with the Police to eradicate illegal massage parlour activity in the Ward. I passed out my vision statement for the community during the event as well, available here.
http://www.insidetorontovotes.ca/2010/10/leadership-style-is-major-concern-in-ward-7/. North York Mirror - October 8th, 2010, p.10 -- "Ward 7: Leadership style is major concern". Lisa Queen wrote another article on the Ward 7 Councillor campaign, this time emphasizing the major candidate platforms and the controversy surrounding the incumbent. When discussing me, the writer emphasized my joint pledge (with 14 other Councillor candidates throughout Toronto) for a budget freeze in 2011, along with my promises of a two-term limit and breaking up the Emery Village BIA. It was also nice to see that Victor Lucero, running against me in the election, endorsed my ideas of establishing community committees throughout the Ward and community festivals, integral parts of my platform for the last two elections. Thanks Victor!
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/elections/article/864444--and-now-for-something-completely-different. Toronto Star - September 22nd, 2010 -- "And Now For Something Completely Different". This quirky article by reporter Katie Daubs lists a number of interesting ideas suggested by select election candidates. My promise, giving back 20% of my Councillor salary to the Ward, appeared to be the most gracious.
http://news.nationalpost.com/2010/07/21/doug-holyday-to-seek-repayment-from-two-councillors/, National Post - July 21st, 2010 -- "Doug Holyday To Seek Repayment From Two Councillors". As the person who took the incumbent to the Compliance Audit Committee in 2007, it was disappointing to find that City Hall decided to reimburse his legal fees, despite the courts' decision that the reimbursement was illegal. I do not feel the reimbursement was appropriate (and is indicative of the cynicism prevalent at City Hall) and I will continue to fight for the return of those funds. The writer of this story, Natalie Alcoba, was well-informed about the compliance audit process which was a pleasant surprise during the interview.
http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/elections/article/844657--i-told-you-so-york-west-candidates-on-mammoliti-decision. North York Mirror, July 7th, 2010 -- "I Told You So, York West Candidates On Mammoliti Decision". This article asked Ward 7 candidates their reaction to the incumbent withdrawing from the Mayor's race. I was certain he would eventually withdraw from the campaign and wrote about it on various Toronto blogs, calling it the "Mammoliti Ruse". The writer of this article, Tim Foran, put this article together rather quickly and unfairly emphasized the opinions of certain candidates more than others, lacking balance.
http://www.thestar.com/yourcitymycity/article/799660--councillors-spending-rules-favour-councillors Toronto Star, April 23rd, 2010 -- "Councillors Spending Rules Favours...Councillors". I was interviewed by Paul Moloney on the topic of incumbents utilizing newsletters, paid from office expense accounts, during an election campaign as a free promotional device. The cut-off date for using these newsletters was Labour Day (7 weeks prior to the election). My suggestion was 6 months, a more realistic time frame.
National Post, March 6th, 2010, "Races Worth Watching". The Post provided its readers with a list of the most newsworthy Ward races at the time and mentioned Ward 7. Calling me "A frequent critic of Mammoliti", I have used that quote many times. Of course, the article did not have to mention my third-place showing in the 2006 election, but that's politics.
http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/local/article/624486--additional-info-about-career. North York Mirror, February 26th, 2010 -- "Will Mammoliti Stick With Mayoral Bid". Lisa Queen, the writer of this article, did a pretty good job emphasizing the relevant points to the incumbent's (ultimate) failure of a Mayoral bid. She even quoted me calling it the "Mammoliti Ruse", a term I used since October 2009.
National Post, January 23rd, 2010 -- "York Region's Avenue 7 Idea...". The newspaper asked readers to suggest an alternate name for Avenue 7, the proposed name for Highway 7 in York Region. My suggestion was "Palladini Avenue", in honour of the famous Ontario Minister and his successful car dealership and landmark at Hwy7 and Weston. I am in favour of naming streets after deserving individuals, unlike the incumbent (see articles 12 and 15 below for a good example).
http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/toronto/archive/2009/10/17/and-now-a-trip-to-mammolltiville.aspx. National Post, October 17th, 2009 -- "And Now, A Trip To Mammolitiville". While only scratching the surface of the problems in Ward 7 and the Emery Village BIA, this article, written by Allison Hanes, provides an adequate balance. She asked me for a number of people to interview and some were quoted in the article.
National Post, October 5th, 2009 -- Letter to the Editor, "Vanity street names are embarrassing". In September, after I opposed the naming of certain streets after individuals connected to the incumbent at Etobicoke York Community Council, Vanessa Lu at the Toronto Star wrote an article about the controversy. Allison Hanes at the National Post wrote a follow-up piece soon afterward, indicating that certain names were eventually taken off the list. My letter to the editor in the National Post indicated how embarrassing this whole incident was to the people of Ward 7.
http://www.insidetoronto.com/opinion/letters/article/155262--expanding-bia-will-only-hurt-community-reader. North York Mirror, October 9th, 2009 -- Letter to the editor "Expanding BIA will only hurt community". It is my letter to the editor, reacting to the article 11 below.
http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/local/article/151009--plan-to-expand-bia-boundaries-splits-community. North York Mirror, September 18th, 2009 -- "Plan to expand BIA boundaries splits community". Lisa Queen wrote this article about the community meeting, organized by the Toronto BIA Office, to seek input and support for the Emery Village BIA expansion into the Humber Summit community. Suffice it to say, I was against the expansion.
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/696349. Toronto Star, September 16th, 2009 -- "Name game over streets gets nasty". At Etobicoke York Community Council I opposed the naming of streets after individuals connected with the incumbent. Vanessa Lu at the Toronto Star interviewed me and others, reporting on the controversy.
http://www.insidetoronto.com/article/37121--real-solutions-needed-to-tackle-problems-at-rowntree-mills-park. North York Mirror, June 6th, 2009 -- Letter to the editor "Real Solutions Needed To Tackle Problems At Rowntree Mills Park". My letter opposed the closing of this beautiful park to cars. Except for a few events by permit, this park is virtually empty (as the gates stay closed, even today).
http://www.thestar.com/comment/article/645879. Toronto Star, June 5th, 2009 -- Letter to the editor "Legal funding sets bad precedent". I was fundamentally against the idea of members of Council being able to get the City to fund defamation suits, feeling that it goes against fundamental democratic principles. Fortunately, City Council did not pass the motion.
http://www.adrianheaps.com/2009/05/25/bike-lanes-may-not-turn-their-crank-but-councillors-join-mayors-city-hall-ride/. Globe and Mail, May 25th, 2009 -- "Making Noise At The Zoo". My deputation to the Toronto Zoo Board caught the eye of Jennifer Lewington, the Globe reporter. I was there to advocate for a Citizen's Advisory Committee for the Toronto Zoo.
http://www.insidetoronto.com/InsideToronto/Article/73229. Letter to the Editor, North York Mirror, April 22nd, 2009 -- "Councillor's fear tactics source of community angst". My letter was highly critical of the incumbent's offer of peace to Humber Summit business owners after their parking spaces were taken away, given the serious consequences of his actions. I also highlighted serious inconsistencies in the incumbent's statements.
http://www.insidetoronto.com/InsideToronto/Article/71910. North York Mirror, March 18th, 2009 -- Letter to the editor "Councillor's legacy not an impressive one". I wrote a stinging letter criticizing the newspaper's puff piece on the incumbent in February 2009. The letter had such an impact in the Ward it was translated into Italian and passed it out in community meetings.
http://www.insidetoronto.com/InsideToronto/Article/68375. North York Mirror, December 9th, 2008 -- Letter to the editor "Community enticed to rise up against councillor". One of my personal favourites, this letter was a rallying cry for the people of Ward 7 to fight back against the incumbent's antics. In my opinion, many people stopped being afraid of the incumbent after reading it.
http://www.thestar.com/News/GTA/article/450135. Toronto Star, June 27th, 2008 -- "Councillor seeks refund following legal battle". Paul Moloney at the Toronto Star interview me extensively for this article about the reimbursement of the incumbent's legal expenses following my request for a compliance audit of his election finances.
http://www.insidetoronto.com/InsideToronto/Article/59452. York Guardian, June 19th, 2008 -- "Residents reject strong mayor". My quick speech to a group of Councillors challenging the Mayor's over-reaching powers was quoted in this community newspaper. My argument was for a party system and an ethics committee to provide checks and balances. The writer, Tamara Shephard, wrongly stated that I was a York resident.
Toronto Star, June 19th, 2008 -- "Voices: Drive-through pollution". The Toronto Star published my idea for eliminating line-ups at drive-thrus, specifically charging a $1 service fee or $5 minimum charge.
http://www.thestar.com/comment/article/443403. Toronto Star, June 14th 2008 -- Letter to the editor "Other ways to promote zoo". I was enraged when the Toronto Star exposed the thousands of free zoo passes given to certain Councillors in 2007. I provided suggestions (such as PWYC days and using the MAP program) to stop the current use of giveaways disguised as political gifts.
http://www.now.uz/news/story.cfm?content=162691&archive=27,33,2008. Now Magazine, April 17-23, 2008 -- Letter to the editor "Skid mark on your lid". One of my pet peeves in the community are children riding bicycles without helmets. I criticized Now Magazine for their Bike Issue, as most of the photographed bicyclists were helmet-less.
Toronto Star, April 19th, 2008 -- Letter to the editor "A lose-lose situation". As the City lost $293,000 from a vending machine operator that went bankrupt, I criticized the need to have vending machines at recreation centres AT ALL, as it does not promote good health.
http://unhyphenatedcanadian.blogspot.com/2008/04/kingdom-of-toronto.html. Toronto Star, April 7th, 2008 -- Letter to the editor "Our own absolute monarch". I received a great deal of attention from this letter criticizing David Miller's attempts at getting greater powers as Mayor, a move I considered Machiavellian.
http://www.thestar.com/News/GTA/article/310555. Toronto Star, March 8, 2008 -- "Readers' TTC Complaints: Garbage". My suggestion at the time to put back garbage receptacles at subway stations was implemented shortly afterward. The power of the press was effective in this case.
http://www.economist.com/node/20014911. Economist Magazine, August 6th, 2007 -- Letter to the editor "Nice, but broke". By far my favourite letter to the editor, this commentary on Toronto's financial and political woes received a great deal of attention. My best line: "With luck, Toronto's political leadership will wake up and develop greater expertise in economic and public-sector management before its too late and the great "sucking-sound" of investment dollars moves westward." It is true, even today.
www.sonali.ca/media/torstareditorialpicks.pdf. Toronto Star, November 8th, 2006 -- "Star's Selection For City Council". The Toronto Star endorsed me for Ward 7 Councillor in the 2006 election, mentioning my service in charity and community work.
http://clients.andrewmallis.com/decisiontoronto2006/decisiontoronto2006/?q=node/528. North York Mirror, November 8th, 2006 -- "Toronto Community News Election Endorsements". The North York Mirror endorsed me for Councillor in Ward 7 as well, citing my potential as a community advocate and the national attention brought to the dangers of pocket bikes.

Other Councillor Candidates

LarryPerlman — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 09:41:57 CDT

Introduction

There are currently nine candidates running for Councillor in Ward 7 (including myself). Below is a brief analysis of the eight other candidates' election platforms, in alphabetical order.

It is not my intention to merely criticize their platforms; the purpose of this web page is to understand (from my perspective of course) why they chose to run, their credibility as a candidate, the passion they bring to the campaign, and finally to highlight some of their ideas.

If readers of this website wish to add to this page, please feel free to either post a comment at the bottom of this page, send me an email or give me a call. I will endeavour to respond as best I can (and will also delete any inappropriate comments if need be).

The list of candidates for Ward 7 are:

1. Scott Aitchison
2. Nick Di Nizio
3. Sergio Gizzo
4. Sharon Joseph
5. Victor Lucero
6. Christopher R. MacDonald
7. George Mammoliti
8. Stefano Tesoro

1. Scott Aitchison

Campaign website -- http://sites.google.com/site/scottaitchison007/home
Facebook account (political only) -- http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=243954462905
Facebook account (profile) -- http://www.facebook.com/HighTyme

The one word that best describes Scott is "personable". With his wide smile, jovial laugh and great sense of humour, there is no doubt that Scott makes friends very quickly. He also has a passion for politics and is not afraid to discuss the impact that political decisions have on him, his family and his community. I first communicated with Scott by email and we met at a presentation downtown by the Toronto Board of Trade. I took him on a tour of my community and we have spoken many times since.

Scott has strong views on a number of disparate subjects, including better access for the handicapped and vulnerable, not closing public spaces (especially parks), the problems with the Emery Village BIA and finally, more accountability and accessibility of members of Council to the people of Toronto. I would invite readers to go to his website and political facebook page to learn more.

Overall, Scott's position on the above issues is positive and there is no doubt that the people of Ward 7 will be hearing more from him in the future. I have spoken out on similar topics through deputations at City Hall and letters to the editor (specifically the closing of Rowntree Mills Park, the Emery Village BIA and accountability of Council members) and hope that Scott utilizes these other forums after the election as well, as he is an articulate and passionate speaker.

2. Nick Di Nizio

Website -- http://www.dinizio.ca

I first met Nick in the summer of 2008 in the Humber Summit community when business owners were getting harassed by various city inspectors, approximately three months before many of their parking spaces were taken away. Nick is the quintessential salesman -- loud, well-groomed and always available to shake hands. Over the years we have spoken many times, collaborated on a few community issues and followed each other's activities in our respective communities. I have also spoken and worked with many of Nick's political handlers in the Weston/Sheppard area.

Nick's political platform for this election (so far at least) is built on simple buzzwords and few specifics that attempt to portray him as a cost-fighter on the right side of the political spectrum. There is no doubt that he is following on the coat-tails of Mayoral candidate Rob Ford as well, making it somewhat difficult to engage him on specific details of his platform. For example, eliminating the land transfer and vehicle registration fees is a popular promise, but at $230 Million per year this is a promise that is unrealistic without an alternate revenue source. In other words, there is a lot of smoke but very little fire in his platform.

Of all the candidates in Ward 7 I am most disappointed in Nick's approach to this election. Portraying himself as the only alternative to the incumbent is not realistic and most likely encouraged by the few people insulating him and then pushing him forward. From my conversations with him I find he lacks political depth and understanding on most municipal issues, relying on his salesmanship and Italian-Canadian heritage for votes. Many people I have spoken to in the Ward also consider him to be a "lite" version of the incumbent. He had the time to learn about many of the serious issues facing the Ward and, except for the soccer lights at the Humber Sheppard Community Centre, did not go far enough to learn more. In my opinion, Nick is in for a great let-down on election night.

3. Sergio Gizzo

Website -- http://sergiogizzo.webs.com (information changed on October 17th)

OCTOBER 17th UPDATE: I was informed by Sergio that he has a campaign website. I made the necessary changes above and apologize for the earlier misinformation.

OCTOBER 16th UPDATE: An article was published in the October 15th North York Mirror (page 14) detailing my October 4th update information below. The article can be read here. Please note that I was the person who first passed the information to the attention of the reporter. I have since spoken to Sergio about the article.

OCTOBER 4th UPDATE: On September 29th an anonymous tip was posted on my forum below (titled "Your View"), indicating that Sergio Gizzo was being looked at for "money irregularities" (as stated by the poster) by the Mutual Fund Dealers Association (go to the hyperlink here). At first I was doubtful of the claim, did some research and then contacted Sergio for his response on September 30th. He informed me at the time that it was not him and I replied to the anonymous post accordingly. However, after a little more research (including the connection of certain parties mentioned in the MFDA statement of hearing and insistence by the anonymous poster), I contacted Sergio on October 2nd and 3rd. Sergio admitted in our last conversation that in fact it was him in the statement.

ORIGINAL ANALYSIS: I first met Sergio in the Fall of 2004 when we were both on a youth advisory committee in the Humber Summit community, known at the time as the "Humber Summit Resource Centre". As the Executive Assistant for many years to current MPP Mario Sergio (until taking time off to run for Councillor), Sergio is easy to approach and a valuable resource on provincial and municipal matters. In addition, he has an educational background in Political Science, giving him additional political depth.

Unfortunately, he is relying on past goodwill as the reason to vote for him in this election. Sergio does not have a website or a means of laying out his platform and vision (such as a flyer that I have seen), and it is difficult to analyze that which is unavailable. Based on his comments at the Rogers Cable 10 debate on September 21st, Sergio's political position is based on his disappointment in local government (and the incumbent), a need to protect seniors and single Mothers, crime prevention and business incentives -- nothing new and incomplete in any event. His vision centres around "care, consideration, compassion and commitment" -- wonderful buzzwords without real meaning.

In other words, his value to the Ward is based on his work as an Executive Assistant to MPP Mario Sergio. There is value in this experience, but is it enough to step into the position of Ward 7 Councillor?

4. Sharon Joseph

Website -- http://www.votesharonjoseph.com

I met Sharon for the first time in August 2010 at a meeting of the Toronto Board of Trade. We communicated via email prior to that time. She attended many 31 Division's CPLC meetings over the years (I am a regular attendee) but we never had a chance to introduce ourselves. Sharon is personable and responsive, qualities she no doubt developed over time in her role as Director of "Breakaway Relief Care", a youth (and family) counselling service based in the Jane/Finch community (but serving many areas of the GTA). I am glad to know her and another Director at Breakaway who is helping with her election campaign, Anthony Mattas -- we have already spoken about joint initiatives after the election.

Although Sharon has a campaign website there isn't much information available to analyze. However, the Rogers 10 debate on September 21st provided me with information about her campaign. Her vision centres around the need for more effective delivery of social services and dealing with community needs at the grass-roots level. In her opinion, issues of poverty and neglect are important for the next Councillor as well, along with a commitment to help those less fortunate. This must be done with integrity and through consultation with both the residents and businesses in Ward 7. Many small businesses in particular need tax breaks in order to survive and succeed

Sharon brought great passion to the Rogers debate and her appeal to help those most vulnerable in our society is a worthy goal. She is an effective advocate for those less fortunate and vulnerable in the Ward. I, too, share her vision to help those most vulnerable in the Ward, but my vision encompasses improving the quality of life for all people in the Ward. It is on this important point that we differ. And like Scott Aitchison, I know that Sharon will continue to be a strong voice in the Ward.

5. Victor Lucero

Website -- http://candidateward7.ca/index.aspx

OCTOBER 9th UPDATE: After reading an October 8th article in the North York Mirror on the Councillor candidates in Ward 7 and visiting Victor's campaign website, he has done me the honour of utilizing two of my platform promises for the last two elections: Creating community committees throughout the Ward and community festivals. Of course, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but Victor should give credit where credit is due, should he not? Just a thought.

ORIGINAL ANALYSIS. My dealings with Victor has been unfortunate, to say the least. A mutual acquaintance promised early this year to put us together and it never materialized. I met Victor for the first time outside the Porto Churrasqueira restaurant in May 2010 (at the corner of Islington Ave. and Satterly Rd.), just after a series of verbal threats were directed against me by one of its owners for objecting to the restaurant's liquor license. Victor approached me, asked me why I chose to object to the liquor license and would not stop asking me the same question over and over, despite repeating myself numerous times. Later I found out that he lives close to the restaurant and his sister is an employee of the restaurant. It was quite inappropriate of him to approach me in this manner and I question his ulterior motives.

In August, Victor placed over-sized election signs on the lawn on his business address, an obvious violation of election by-laws. I was not the first to complain, but my complaint to Jim Hart at MLS was effective soon afterward in getting the signs pulled and charges laid. Afterward, Victor paid the fines, took back the signs, then placed them on the house, AGAIN in violation of election by-laws. I filed another complaint; the signs were pulled by MLS and charges laid again (he has not done this since fortunately). Later I found out from TWO MLS managers that his campaign office is not zoned commercial. Not only was he in violation of election by-laws, his office space was in violation of regular zoning by-laws. These are not small issues.

Victor needs to understand that a Councillor can not go around breaking the law. Victor, you are a bad boy...tsk tsk tsk. George Mammoliti, for example, did the same thing at his campaign office, but found the necessary loopholes to get away with it. May I suggest a quick conversation with the incumbent on these matters.

Victor is also spending a great deal of time denying charges made against him by others in the Ward. During the Rogers 10 debate Victor claimed not to be part of the Humberlea Ratepayers, and his website denies any affiliation with the incumbent. His website even has pictures of him with Mayoral candidate Rob Ford, under the caption "Victor Lucero Supporting Mayoral Candidate Rob Ford". Is Victor endorsing Mr. Ford? Does Mr. Ford even know that Victor is a candidate for Councillor? This is getting silly.

Under these circumstances and the actions mentioned earlier, Victor appears politically tainted in my view and not worthy of consideration or analysis. Better luck next time Victor!

6. Christopher R. MacDonald

No campaign website available
A summary election sheet of his candidacy is available here

I first met Chris at the Rogers 10 debate and do not recall ever seeing or hearing from him on any issues or in any community meeting in the Ward. This is a surprise to me, as I found out in our conversation that we live very close to each other. Chris has a comfortable personality and is very good at engaging people one-on-one. It was a pleasure meeting him and I hope to see more of him after the election.

Chris does not have a campaign website but provided a summary sheet of his candidacy to Toronto Community News (owners of the North York Mirror). He was also active in the Rogers 10 debate. His platform centres around fiscal restraint, responding to the needs of residents and businesses in the Ward, and lower taxes and fees. In other words, he is a Rob Ford supporter, going so far as to officially endorsing Mr. Ford for Mayor.

Overall, my political views are at the opposite end of the political spectrum to that of Mr. Ford, and for Chris as well. Chris is in a popular political position and many candidates have hopped on the Ford bandwagon. In my opinion I do not find Mr. Ford's platform credible and I question his financial figures as well as that of his long-term plans. The same, therefore, goes with Chris and his platform.

Having said that, the desire to respond to the needs of residents and businesses is an important factor to consider, along with the elimination of the City's problem of over-spending. Responsible fiscal controls and responsiveness are important qualities of a good member of Council. Both Chris and Mr. Ford are promoting those qualities. However, I believe to have these qualities as well, without putting the City in a political crisis.

7. George Mammoliti (The Incumbent)

Website -- http://www.mammoliti2010.com

The National Post once referred to me as George's most frequent critic -- a handle I take with pride. Except for Howard Moscoe who found joy in mocking George mercilessly at City Council, nobody else has been able to more effectively penetrate the incumbent's political armour than myself -- and George deserves the criticism as he has been an embarrassment to himself, the people of Ward 7 and Toronto as a whole. There are far too many examples to list here and I will not bore anybody with the details. Suffice it to say that I have spoken out against the incumbent in the media, through blogs, at various committees, numerous community meetings and through formal complaints with many accountability officers and political leaders at the City and Province.

It is time for George to retire from Toronto municipal politics. Period.

Instead of analyzing the incumbent's platform and vision, I thought the best course of action would be to provide readers with my top ten list of reasons to stop taking George seriously. Over the last year or so I have continually updated the Letterman-esque list to provide readers with a more comical approach to this so-called Councillor and candidate.

So, without further ado, my top ten list of reasons to stop taking George Mammoliti seriously:

Number 10: Calling on the Army to rid his Ward of drug dealers and arming by-law enforcement officers with guns. I'm sure Bill Blair and members of the Toronto Police had a good laugh as well
Number 9: George in action on YouTube (with Rob Ford) -- www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8EpSdyB0zY . You won't believe your eyes!
Number 8: Endorsing arch enemy Rob Ford for Mayor in a desperate attempt to win a few votes and seek an Executive Committee position if (and that's a BIG if) George wins the election
Number 7: Strippergate. Not only did he embarrass himself and his Ward, he dragged Councillors Frank DiGiorgio & Cesar Palacio into it as well -- and nobody looked up at the strippers of course
Number 6: Trying to bring Pandas to the Toronto Zoo to help with its $250 Million fundraising goal. The silliest "junket" to China ever! AND NOW they want to partner with other Canadian Zoos while George is paying his own way to China -- oh boy!
Number 5: Trying to eliminate drugs and the world's oldest profession in our fair City with late-night one-man raids to bars and massage parlours, respectively. Gotham is safer now thanks to Batman, ah George
Number 4: A weird obsession with naming streets in his Ward after friends and contributors to his election campaigns. I wonder if he will name a street after himself too (does Oliti Court count?).
Number 3: Pushing through a $10 Million "special levy" on hard-working businesses in the Emery Village BIA to put up North America's tallest flagpole as a tourist destination. Of course, the BIA is mainly industrial-based and has no need to bring in tourists, but...
Number 2: The Emery Village BIA Board of Management. An organization so closely connected to George that the National Post referred to it as "Mammolitiville". This BIA is a dragon that must be slayed.
And the Number 1 reason to stop taking George Mammoliti seriously:

LOSING SUPPORT IN WARD 7 BY THE DAY, POLITICS IN TORONTO WILL NOT BE THE SAME WITHOUT HIM...GEORGE MAMMOLITI IS THE CLASS CLOWN OF CITY COUNCIL.

8. Stefano Tesoro

Missing in action.

Humber Summit Vision

LarryPerlman — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 11:57:49 CDT

My Platform

LarryPerlman — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 06:38:41 CDT

"For Stronger Communities, For Safer Streets"

Summary

My election platform continues with most of the promises and initiatives from my last election campaign in 2006. For this election campaign, I chose to create a more formal platform structure, built on four fundamental pillars identified (and to be affectionately known) as SCIL:

Service -- Serving the needs of the people in Ward 7 & Toronto, not the other way around
Community -- Remembering that Ward 7 & Toronto are a collection of unique communities with its own identity and needs, made stronger when brought together.
Integrity -- Serving the people of Ward 7 & Toronto under the highest ethical standards
Leadership -- Strength, drive, persistence, responsibility, tolerance and setting an example to one's peers and those looking for guidance and help.

Within each pillar are My Promises (actions that can begin immediately and under my control) and My Initiatives When Elected (actions not under my control but ones I will work hard to accomplish over time). Promises will be relatively simple to implement and the results quickly visible to the people of Ward 7. Initiatives will take much longer and involve more time and energy to implement. I have no doubt that the end results will prove to be positive overall for each community within Ward 7, Ward 7 overall and the City of Toronto.

A brief explanation of SCIL is found below.

1. SERVICE

Promises

Break up the Emery Village Business Improvement Area (BIA), stop the flagpole project, suspend expansions of this BIA & establish a VOLUNTARY group of smaller, more effective BIAs that represent the needs of the business community, not its Ward Councillor; This is my first priority as Councillor. A petition to request a break-up of the Emery Village BIA will begin immediately after the election.
My staff and I will return phone calls, letters and emails. Period. If one prefers to speak to me instead of staff, I will be accommodating and provide the necessary translation services if need be.
A Ward 7 Councillor website will be designed and updated regularly with a community events calendar, relevant programs, contact information and important motions affecting Ward 7. Residents and business owners could also sign up and have updates sent to them via email.
A Semi-annual newsletter would be sent to ALL residents and business owners in Ward 7. It would NOT promote the Councillor. It would inform and promote the Ward itself and the people within the Ward. Period.
Begin a Ward 7 Internship program for College and University students. Students throughout the Ward should be given the opportunity to connect with their communities and get work experience at the same time. Starting at the Councillor's office, an internship program for the Ward would allow students to help their neighbours, initiate and get involved in community projects, and solve problems that would be useful skills to future employers. If successful, the internship program would be expanded to include all businesses and community groups in the Ward, utilized for High School students, or those taking time out of school. The rewards for the communities they serve would be priceless!

Initiatives

Draft a "Toronto Bill of Rights". It will lay out a series of rights and responsibilities that the City of Toronto (both Council members and City Staff) will be expected to do for all people living, working and doing business in Toronto. The fundamental principles will be incorporated into guidelines for Council members and staff, and provide the base from which an Ethics Committee would be formed (see Integrity initiatives below).
Protect the rights, needs and dignity of those most vulnerable within Ward 7. I will work alongside our Provincial MPP (Mario Sergio) & Federal MP (Judy Sgro) to ensure that all existing programs, tax credits & services are made available to all those who qualify in Ward 7.
Negotiate with the Province to expand the number of members of Council to include four "regional" Councillors, one each to Chair a Community Council. In the event that residents or business owners have a problem, and their Ward Councillor will not support them, the option will be open to go to their Regional Councillor for help. A Regional Councillor would guide their Community Council more effectively and look at issues from a better perspective. These offices will be funded by lowering office expense budgets.
Promote business initiatives in the Ward by designating commercial/industrial areas as "incubation zones", feed off the knowledge base of York University and provide tax holidays (with the help of provincial & federal governments) for those committed to employing those in the "new economy". The industrial and commercial zones west of York University would be a perfect choice for incubation zones.

2. COMMUNITY

Promises

Divide Ward 7 into 10 distinct communities (see left), each with its own volunteer representative. Each representative would form part of a "Ward 7 Committee", meet regularly and providing input and suggestions for myself and staff. This committee will respond to the needs of all residents & businesses in Ward 7.
Once the Emery Village BIA is disbanded, begin the process of establishing individual BIAs. I will hold meetings throughout Ward 7 and ask the business owners if they wish to form their own BIA, helping them through the process.
Promote business initiatives in the Ward by designating commercial/industrial areas as "incubation zones", feed off the knowledge base of York University and provide tax holidays (with the help of provincial & federal governments) for those committed to employing those in the "new economy".

Initiatives

Establish a cleaner, safer, pedestrian/bicycle-friendly and positive business environment throughout Ward 7. No community will be left out of this initiative and no community in Ward 7 given preferential treatment. Period.
Promote greater citizen participation and transparency by advocating the addition of "citizen advisory committees" (CACs) for all Agencies, Boards & Commissions (ABCs) throughout the City. I have been an advocate for greater public participation in our Municipal Government and spoke openly for CACs at the Toronto Zoo and TTC. The costs are minimal, the advice valuable and the connection between Torontonians and their civic government priceless.
Formalize the process of establishing community hubs throughout the Ward by connecting our libraries, community centres and schools together. Although this may exist on a case-by-case basis, it is not consistent, resulting in a disconnect between certain hubs.
In the case of our schools this is an acute problem. The reason is simple: These schools are controlled by the Ontario Ministry of Education (through the Education Act) when the best solution is to bring our schools under the control of the City of Toronto (under the City of Toronto Act). Therefore, I would like to begin the process of negotiating with the Province of Ontario to incorporate the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) and Toronto Catholic District School Boards (TCDSB) under the City of Toronto as individual Boards. There are many advantages to this proposal:

Toronto's two School Boards are in a particularly difficult position of being asset rich, cash poor and with student populations that are dropping. This problem could be better fixed at the City level.
The City of Toronto can more effectively consolidate these assets with our libraries and community centres and dispose of unnecessary assets quickly and with less political pressure.
The TCDSB scandal is a black eye to the management of our schools. The City of Toronto's transparency guidelines and unique City of Toronto Act can bring better accountability to our schools. Given the scandal itself, the Ontario Ministry of Education would most likely want to rid itself of these Boards anyway.
School Trustees would not be needed any longer, as each Board would be made up of Council members and professional staff. The potential cost savings would be significant, and Board members would fall within the Integrity Commissioner's "Code of Conduct".
Most importantly, our schools would be an important component of community hubs, as they should be.

3. INTEGRITY

Promises

It is difficult to believe, but the incumbent has been the subject of SIX formal complaints to the City's Integrity Commissioner since 2006 (I personally read four responses from the Integrity Commissioner, five including mine). My formal complaint, made in 2007, concerned the incumbent's actions during and after the 2006 election. While the Integrity Commissioner did not find fault with the incumbent, in my opinion the problem is due to a weak "code of conduct" (guidelines used by the Integrity Commissioner) rather than the incumbent's ethical behaviour. In fact, I have spoken to the Integrity Commissioner and informed her that I would be pursuing yet another formal complaint against the Incumbent after this election (whether he wins the election or not). A member of Council should not be subject to so many formal complaints without consequences. As Councillor, I will ensure that my office will be run under the highest ethical standards. Period.

Initiatives

The establishment of an "Ethics and Accountability" Committee, made up of non-partisan members of Council. The Integrity Commissioner, Ombudsman, Auditor General and Lobbyist Registrar would report into this committee and submit all reports dealing with ethical and accountability complaints against members of Council and City Staff. An adequate budget would be provided to deal with complaints and meetings would be held in private if need be to protect the reputations of the individuals reported on. Guidelines would also be reviewed by the committee to determine whether minimum ethical standards are being met.

4. LEADERSHIP

Promises

I will commit to a voluntary two term (eight years) limit as Councillor, with no intention of ever returning to office as Ward Councillor. It is not my intention to be a career Councillor and I would prefer to move to another challenge afterward.
Return 20% of my salary (after tax) to the people of Ward 7 for community projects and festivals. The Ward 7 Committee would be responsible for allocating the funds. If there is an opportunity to have the City provide these funds on a before-tax basis, all the better.

Initiatives

Establish term limits for all members of Council to three terms (12 years) in a row. If a member chooses to run again after taking a four-year break, it should be allowed (but not encouraged). Although this provision to the City of Toronto Act should be grandfathered to allow remaining Council members to continue office, there is no doubt that a strong message must be made that the longer a member stays in office the greater the feeling of entitlement.
Roll back salaries for Council members by 10% and office expense budgets by 25%. Council members must lead by example and in this case it is imperative that their reduced salaries and budgets reflect a leadership role.
Eliminate the 5-cent (6 cents including HST) plastic bag fee altogether. The bag fee, while passed at City Council with good intentions, is annoying for customers and not enforceable by the City (and many retailers choose to ignore it already). Most shoppers continue to purchase plastic bags at retailers and the profits generated are exorbitant. The best solution is to "lead by example" and encourage the use of canvas/recyclable bags through advertising and promotion, starting with retailers.
Work with City Council and the Province of Ontario to find alternate revenue sources for license renewals and land transfer fees. The City of Toronto Act allows for these types of tax revenues, but they are grossly inefficient as an economic tool, as they unfairly penalize homeowners and automobile drivers. Torontonians resent these fees as well, making things worse. However, these monies also represent hundreds of millions of dollars per year that can not be eliminated without another revenue source. The only reasonable solution is to change the City of Toronto Act to allow for more efficient revenue sources in the form of consumption taxes, such as a sales tax. If these taxes can be done region-wide with the Province of Ontario, for example, all the better, as there is no doubt that other cities in the GTA would prefer a more efficient tax source.
Support Transit City, bring back the original 2007 plan and ensure that the Finch Ave. and Jane St. LRT lines are built as soon as possible. Transit City is the proverbial "bird in the hand" transit project for Toronto and to deviate from this plan is difficult to justify. The risk is to lose the funding altogether. The people of Ward 7 would benefit from Transit City, despite the construction delays and funding changes.
Once Transit City is committed, it is my intention to advocate for the transfer of the TTC to Metrolinx, the Province's regional transportation agency. Metrolinx is managed by professionals, funded by the Province and any toll system for automobiles along our expressways and 400-series highways must be done on a regional basis to be effective. Metrolinx is the perfect model to manage the region's transportation needs and the TTC would be best in their hands. I have been saying this on blogs since October 2009 and continue to advocate for a regional transit strategy that includes the TTC.
The City's budget process is a mess. Despite all criticism, the same process continues that creates a disconnect with Torontonians, keeps important information private, and each year forces the City to go begging to the Province of Ontario to fund shortfalls. The solution is difficult but necessary -- a zero-based budgeting process. In effect, zero-based budgeting forces each department in the City to start with a clean slate and justify each expenditure, line-by-line, without referring to past expenses. It is by far the best approach to controlling City expenditures. It will take many years to implement (as budgets start from zero) and may inadvertently cut certain programs needlessly, but within six to eight years the City will be in a much better fiscal situation.
Return the Civic Party system to Toronto, as is presently done in Vancouver and Montreal. A civic party system brings greater discipline, clarity and purpose to municipal governments. An exceptional member of Council could meet the needs of his/her constituents and adhere to the principles of their political party at the same time. It is done at the Provincial and Federal levels, and it can most certainly be done at the Civic level.

Speeches and Deputations

LarryPerlman — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 18:58:24 CDT

LARRY'S SPEECHES AND DEPUTATIONS For many years I have spoken out on many issues in my community, Ward 7, the City and in favour of groups and organizations that contribute positively to our society. I am also a prolific "blogger" and contribute my thoughts and ideas on many electronic forums that have been fine-tuned over time as effective policy statements. These ideas form the backbone of my election platform, ideas that I have presented at City Hall committees, City Agencies, Boards and Commissions (ABCs) and in community groups. The result has been a series of speeches and deputations on various topics of interest. A list of each speech/deputation is found below, along with a summary of the subject matter. Readers can download the speech/deputation (a Word document) by linking to the attachments at the bottom of the page. Regarding my blog postings: There are far too many to list here -- if readers are interested, please contact me or do a "Google search" on my name. August 16th, 2010. Executive Committee deputation on the Emery Village BIA Flagpole project. Miguel Avila and I did a joint deputation against this project. Although the media ridiculed it mercilessly, both the Executive Committee and City Council supported the idea for this project. Hopefully a change in Councillor will bring this silly idea to a crashing halt and save BIA members the $10 Million cost. April 22nd, 2010(1). Economic Development Committee deputation on the expansion of the Emery Village BIA to the Humber Summit community. Through my deputation, the committee was informed that the City Ombudsman was proceeding with a formal complaint on this expansion, and I asked for a deferral of the motion until the investigation was completed. Unfortunately, committee members ignored this important point. April 22nd, 2010(2). Economic Development Committee deputation on Holiday shopping. As I stated in a similar deputation two years earlier, limiting retail shopping on holidays will be ineffective, similar to Sunday shopping laws. Although the motion passed to allow holiday shopping, the motion was deferred at Council. April 22nd, 2010(3). Economic Development Committee deputation on the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA). My deputation was a supplement to the presentation made by the GTAA, as I argued that negative externalities should also be considered. Although Kyle Rae (the Committee Chair) could not stop my deputation from being put on the record, he nonetheless prevented me from speaking on the topic. Shameful. December 11th, 2009. The Nerio Valdez Foundation or NIVA (www.neriovaldezfoundation.com) is a youth-based group created in honour of a young man who lost his life to violence. The Foundation asked for my help in establishing itself as a charity. Later, they invited me as a special guest to their fundraising dinner and asked me to speak as well. November 11th, 2009. Economic Development Committee deputation on the BIA expansion. I received a great many compliments on this deputation which summarized, in the form of a recipe gone bad, of how the expansion plans were corrupted by a bad process. Hopefully the City Ombudsman's report will open everybody's eyes to this awful circumstance. October 1st, 2009. Toronto Zoo Board Deputation on the Panda Project. Miguel Avila and I did a joint deputation on the silliness behind bringing Pandas to the Toronto Zoo and the wasteful "junket" proposed to China. While the media had a field-day with this story and the junket was cut back significantly, the trip proceeded. Even today yet ANOTHER junket is being planned and Miguel provided the Board with ANOTHER deputation. September 14th, 2009. Etobicoke York Community Council (EYCC) Deputation on street-naming on a Weston/Sheppard development. My deputation exposed the connection between certain street names proposed and their connection to the incumbent. Fortunately, the Toronto Star picked up the story and exposed the foolishness behind the motion. In the end, some of the street names were taken off the list. May 21st, 2009. Toronto Zoo Board Deputation on the need for a Citizen's Advisory Committee (CAC). This deputation exposed the mismanagement of the Board and proposed that a CAC be formed to provide them some effective advice. The Zoo Board ignored my pleas but the Globe & Mail published a story about it. February 21st, 2008. Audit Committee Deputation on the Fraud & Waste Annual Report. I was critical of the lack of transparency provided in fraud and waste hotline complaints, mine in particular which exposed complaints against the incumbent in relation to the waiving of his election-sign fines, among other issues. February 19th, 2008. Economic Development Committee Deputation on Holiday Shopping. My original deputation on holiday shopping (another was made on April 22nd, 2010) compared this debate to the ill-fated Sunday shopping laws. My argument was that retail stores will eventually open for business during the holidays, whether City Council agrees to it or not. October 29th, 2007. Executive Committee Deputations on Election-Related matters. I wrote two separate deputations on election issues: recommendations in the future AND the reimbursement of legal costs for Councillors for Compliance Audits. In the former, David Miller cut me off many times and prevented me from speaking. In the latter, as the Mayor declared a conflict of interest and could not attend the discussion, I informed the Executive Committee that reimbursing members of Council was not legal. It seems that few members of Council were concerned about the ethical and legal ramifications of their actions, except for Doug Holyday who filed a court challenge with his own private funds. Members of City Council should be ashamed of themselves. June 1st, 2007. Compliance Audit Committee Request (Part 2). This should be read together with the May 18th 2007 letter (item 15 below). I found a number of serious inconsistencies in the incumbent's 2006 campaign financial statements and requested an audit, as was my right under section 81 of the Municipal Elections Act. After two sessions of the committee (over 2 1/2 hours) and a real estate appraisal that was so inaccurate it had to be re-done, the committee voted 2 to 1 not to proceed with an audit. Even today, I have a difficult time understanding their (split) decision. May 24th, 2007. Etobicoke York Community Council Deputation on the re-naming of the Humber-Sheppard Community Centre to the Carmine Stefano Community Centre. Looking back now I was surprised by the attacks I received from Council members after exposing the connection between the incumbent and the Stefano family. It was also the first time Rob Ford acknowledged my efforts in bringing this to the attention of Council. May 18th, 2007(1). Compliance Audit Committee Request (Part 1). This should be read together with the June 1st 2007 letter (item 13 above). May 18th, 2007(2). Supplementary Information regarding my request for a compliance audit of the incumbent. The Excel spreadsheet lists all election sign fines issued during the 2006 election by MLS for illegally-placed signs, along with the how much each candidate ACTUALLY paid (an affidavit signed by a candidate could -- and has -- waived the fines). The incumbent was issued fines totalling $11,425 for 457 illegally-placed signs (all fines waived by affidavit), Sal Piccinini was issued fines totalling $6,400 for 256 illegally-placed signs (all fines waived by affidavit). By the way, Rob Ford was issued fines totalling $1,275 for 51 illegally-placed signs and his fines were also waived by affidavit. Other Councillors who had election sign fines waived in this manner include Sandra Bussin ($225) , Suzan Hall ($1,450, but she admitted to some illegally-placed signs) and Norm Kelly ($250).

LARRY'S SPEECHES AND DEPUTATIONS

For many years I have spoken out on many issues in my community, Ward 7, the City and in favour of groups and organizations that contribute positively to our society. I am also a prolific "blogger" and contribute my thoughts and ideas on many electronic forums that have been fine-tuned over time as effective policy statements. These ideas form the backbone of my election platform, ideas that I have presented at City Hall committees, City Agencies, Boards and Commissions (ABCs) and in community groups.

The result has been a series of speeches and deputations on various topics of interest. A list of each speech/deputation is found below, along with a summary of the subject matter. Readers can download the speech/deputation (a Word document) by linking to the attachments at the bottom of the page.

Regarding my blog postings: There are far too many to list here -- if readers are interested, please contact me or do a "Google search" on my name.

August 16th, 2010. Executive Committee deputation on the Emery Village BIA Flagpole project. Miguel Avila and I did a joint deputation against this project. Although the media ridiculed it mercilessly, both the Executive Committee and City Council supported the idea for this project. Hopefully a change in Councillor will bring this silly idea to a crashing halt and save BIA members the $10 Million cost.
April 22nd, 2010(1). Economic Development Committee deputation on the expansion of the Emery Village BIA to the Humber Summit community. Through my deputation, the committee was informed that the City Ombudsman was proceeding with a formal complaint on this expansion, and I asked for a deferral of the motion until the investigation was completed. Unfortunately, committee members ignored this important point.
April 22nd, 2010(2). Economic Development Committee deputation on Holiday shopping. As I stated in a similar deputation two years earlier, limiting retail shopping on holidays will be ineffective, similar to Sunday shopping laws. Although the motion passed to allow holiday shopping, the motion was deferred at Council.
April 22nd, 2010(3). Economic Development Committee deputation on the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA). My deputation was a supplement to the presentation made by the GTAA, as I argued that negative externalities should also be considered. Although Kyle Rae (the Committee Chair) could not stop my deputation from being put on the record, he nonetheless prevented me from speaking on the topic. Shameful.
December 11th, 2009. The Nerio Valdez Foundation or NIVA (www.neriovaldezfoundation.com) is a youth-based group created in honour of a young man who lost his life to violence. The Foundation asked for my help in establishing itself as a charity. Later, they invited me as a special guest to their fundraising dinner and asked me to speak as well.
November 11th, 2009. Economic Development Committee deputation on the BIA expansion. I received a great many compliments on this deputation which summarized, in the form of a recipe gone bad, of how the expansion plans were corrupted by a bad process. Hopefully the City Ombudsman's report will open everybody's eyes to this awful circumstance.
October 1st, 2009. Toronto Zoo Board Deputation on the Panda Project. Miguel Avila and I did a joint deputation on the silliness behind bringing Pandas to the Toronto Zoo and the wasteful "junket" proposed to China. While the media had a field-day with this story and the junket was cut back significantly, the trip proceeded. Even today yet ANOTHER junket is being planned and Miguel provided the Board with ANOTHER deputation.
September 14th, 2009. Etobicoke York Community Council (EYCC) Deputation on street-naming on a Weston/Sheppard development. My deputation exposed the connection between certain street names proposed and their connection to the incumbent. Fortunately, the Toronto Star picked up the story and exposed the foolishness behind the motion. In the end, some of the street names were taken off the list.
May 21st, 2009. Toronto Zoo Board Deputation on the need for a Citizen's Advisory Committee (CAC). This deputation exposed the mismanagement of the Board and proposed that a CAC be formed to provide them some effective advice. The Zoo Board ignored my pleas but the Globe & Mail published a story about it.
February 21st, 2008. Audit Committee Deputation on the Fraud & Waste Annual Report. I was critical of the lack of transparency provided in fraud and waste hotline complaints, mine in particular which exposed complaints against the incumbent in relation to the waiving of his election-sign fines, among other issues.
February 19th, 2008. Economic Development Committee Deputation on Holiday Shopping. My original deputation on holiday shopping (another was made on April 22nd, 2010) compared this debate to the ill-fated Sunday shopping laws. My argument was that retail stores will eventually open for business during the holidays, whether City Council agrees to it or not.
October 29th, 2007. Executive Committee Deputations on Election-Related matters. I wrote two separate deputations on election issues: recommendations in the future AND the reimbursement of legal costs for Councillors for Compliance Audits. In the former, David Miller cut me off many times and prevented me from speaking. In the latter, as the Mayor declared a conflict of interest and could not attend the discussion, I informed the Executive Committee that reimbursing members of Council was not legal. It seems that few members of Council were concerned about the ethical and legal ramifications of their actions, except for Doug Holyday who filed a court challenge with his own private funds. Members of City Council should be ashamed of themselves.
June 1st, 2007. Compliance Audit Committee Request (Part 2). This should be read together with the May 18th 2007 letter (item 15 below). I found a number of serious inconsistencies in the incumbent's 2006 campaign financial statements and requested an audit, as was my right under section 81 of the Municipal Elections Act. After two sessions of the committee (over 2 1/2 hours) and a real estate appraisal that was so inaccurate it had to be re-done, the committee voted 2 to 1 not to proceed with an audit. Even today, I have a difficult time understanding their (split) decision.
May 24th, 2007. Etobicoke York Community Council Deputation on the re-naming of the Humber-Sheppard Community Centre to the Carmine Stefano Community Centre. Looking back now I was surprised by the attacks I received from Council members after exposing the connection between the incumbent and the Stefano family. It was also the first time Rob Ford acknowledged my efforts in bringing this to the attention of Council.
May 18th, 2007(1). Compliance Audit Committee Request (Part 1). This should be read together with the June 1st 2007 letter (item 13 above).
May 18th, 2007(2). Supplementary Information regarding my request for a compliance audit of the incumbent. The Excel spreadsheet lists all election sign fines issued during the 2006 election by MLS for illegally-placed signs, along with the how much each candidate ACTUALLY paid (an affidavit signed by a candidate could -- and has -- waived the fines). The incumbent was issued fines totalling $11,425 for 457 illegally-placed signs (all fines waived by affidavit), Sal Piccinini was issued fines totalling $6,400 for 256 illegally-placed signs (all fines waived by affidavit). By the way, Rob Ford was issued fines totalling $1,275 for 51 illegally-placed signs and his fines were also waived by affidavit. Other Councillors who had election sign fines waived in this manner include Sandra Bussin ($225) , Suzan Hall ($1,450, but she admitted to some illegally-placed signs) and Norm Kelly ($250).

About Me

LarryPerlman — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 22:12:26 CDT

I am 46 years old, the son of immigrant parents, born in Toronto, raised in the GTA and, after finishing school, continued to live & work in Toronto. My wife Teresa and I are married 8 years and are residents of Ward 7 since 2003 (7 years). We are the proud parents of our 3-year-old son Nathan.

Presently self-employed as an equities trader, my work experience centres around Banking & Investments, useful tools in understanding the "numbers" behind large organizations (even the City of Toronto). I hold an MBA in Finance and a BA in Political Science & Economics, which, combined with my work experience, will be effective in asking the right questions at City Hall.

In addition, I am deeply involved in my community. I am presently head of the Humber Summit Neighbourhood Watch and attend and participate regularly in 31 Division's monthly meetings of the CPLC (Community Police Liaison Committee). I am also the City of Toronto's resident representative to Pearson Airport's committee on aircraft noise and the environment. My local and national charity work has been consistent for years.

A brief listing of my qualifications are found below.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Born: City of Toronto

Family: Married to my beautiful wife Teresa for 8 years and the proud parents of our 3-year-old
son Nathan

Resident of the GTA: All my life (except 4 years away at University in Montreal Quebec)

Resident of Ward 7: Seven years (our first home)

University: BA in Political Science & Economics (McGill University)
MBA in Finance (McMaster University)

Past Work Experience:
CIBC - Financial Analyst (IT Department)
Bank of Montreal - Management Training Program
Bank of America Canada - Analyst & Corporate Account Manager
Transamerica Commercial Finance - Credit Manager

Presently Working: Equities Trader (Self-Employed)

Community & Volunteer Work:

Community Work:

Humber Summit Resource Centre (2004-June 2006)

Member of Community Advisory Council
Steering Committee For Humberfest Festival (September 2005)

Canadian Cancer Society (2005) Steering Committee - Etobicoke Relay For Life (June 2005)
Head of the Humber Summit Neighbourhood Watch (Since August 2006)
City of Toronto resident representative to Pearson Airport's CENAC Committee (Community Environment and Noise Advisory Committee) -- since April 2007

Volunteer At Annual Charity Events:

Heart & Stroke Foundation Ride For Heart (9 years)

MS Society - Walk For MS (9 years)

Alzheimers Society - Alzheimers Walk (5 years)

Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation - Run For The Cure (10 years)

World Wildlife Foundation (WWF) Canada - CN Tower Climb (8 years)

United Way of Greater Toronto - CN Tower Climb (8 years)

Contact Me

LarryPerlman — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 14:12:21 CDT

I can be contacted by phone at 416-556-6407 or by email at larry.perlman@gmail.com.

My election campaign is adequately funded and I will not be openly asking for campaign contributions. However, if you feel strongly that your financial support would benefit my campaign, I will take donations to a maximum $300 per person. Rest assured that the funds will only be used to provide information to voters in Ward 7 only. A receipt will be issued, if applicable.

My supporters and I will be knocking on your door soon enough, if we have not done so already. When we do, we would be honoured if you allow us to place an election sign on your lawn. For your information, lawn signs are allowed on or after October 4th.