Last night I attended a public engagement session on 1635 Dundas, hosted by the Region of Durham.

The session was attended by many residents from the neighborhood who shared their feedback and concerns.

I am deeply concerned by the behaviour of some attendees, which included yelling, physical intimidation, and offensive comments about people experiencing homelessness and members of council.

This is a very emotional issue and there will be differing viewpoints.

But the behaviour of some last night is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated.

I am calling on the entire community to be respectful as we continue the dialogue about 1635 Dundas.

I heard loud and clear from residents that they want more structured public meetings where they can share their feedback. As 1635 Dundas is a Region of Durham project, we will be working with the Region to schedule a meeting and further opportunities for the public to engage.

I will also be following up with the Region of Durham on the safety and security questions that were shared by the neighbourhood, and I will be requesting that an update on 1635 Dundas be added to the agenda for the next Regional Council meeting.

Please continue to watch for upcoming public engagement opportunities on 1635 Dundas, including information about a community advisory council.

For more information and to register to receive updates, visit yourvoice.durham.ca/helpaddresshomelessness

For media inquiries, please contact:

Jillian Follert
Public Affairs Coordinator, Office of the Mayor
Phone: 289.314.9101
Email: follertj@whitby.ca

Erin Mikaluk
Manager, Communications and Creative Services, Town of Whitby
Phone: 289.314.6913
Email: mikaluke@whitby.ca