4 things to know in Aurora: sinkhole, anti-racism task force, new park, energy plan

Highlights of the Jan. 26 council meeting

Yorkregion.com
Feb. 4, 2021
Lisa Queen

Here are four highlights from Aurora’s Jan. 26 council meeting:

• Construction work on the sinkhole on Yonge Street at Industrial Parkway is expected to be completed by the fall, according to a presentation by the Region of York. The sinkhole was created by a natural low point in the road and a high water table. There have been several unavoidable and unexpected delays, but repairs are now proceeding.

• Council approved the terms of reference of the new Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force. The task force will work with community groups within Aurora and York Region to identify and develop priorities, find opportunities to increase engagement with people of colour, ensure that diversity is not only accepted in the town but recognized as crucial to the community moving forward, foster increased public awareness of anti-racism and identify real and actionable ways to improve the community by removing systematic racism.

• In response to a report showing significant community support, council approved a park on Hartwell Way. Residents did not support an off-leash dog area in the park. However, council directed town staff to investigate establishing a dog park in a non-residential location.

• Council endorsed a new community energy plan aimed at moving toward a sustainable energy future. It sets out a goal of reducing greenhouse emissions by 80 per cent, compared to 2018 levels by 80 per cent. The guiding document strives to improve energy efficiency, reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and foster a culture of conservation. It considers the impact of future growth and options for local clean energy generation. Supporting economic development by better meeting local energy needs is a key element within the plan.

The next meetings of council are:

• General committee on Feb. 3 at 7 p.m.
• Public planning on Feb. 9 at 7 p.m.
• General committee on Feb. 16 at 7 p.m.
• Council on Feb. 23 at 7 p.m.

All meetings are held virtually in accordance with COVID-19 guidelines.