Your Town: Whitby's Magazine | Issue 1 2024 by Graymatter Marketing + Media

Mayor Elizabeth Roy: Overcoming Challenges, Celebrating Achievements, and Shaping Whitby’s Future.

Toronto Zoo Celebrates 50 Years of Conservation. Join the Mission to Protect Wildlife! Lone Star Cantina

You Gotta Eat Here! Whitby’s New Must-Try Restaurant. Explore Whitby 11 Hidden Gems for Locals, Newcomers, and Visitors.

Family Law & Estate Litigation Specialists, serving our community since 2016

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Will Challenges & Defences

Handling disputes over wills made under duress or without capacity.

Power of Attorney Disputes

Addressing misuse and capacity issues in power of attorney cases.

Elder Law

Supporting older adults with issues like elder abuse and family disputes.

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Generation for Generations

Pickering Nuclear Generating Station can continue producing safe, reliable energy for Ontario by delivering another world-class refurbishment project* for the benefit of generations to come.

*Pending regulatory approval

Refurbishing Pickering will help:

• Secure more than 2,100 MW of reliable, clean low-carbon nuclear power for Ontario for another 30-plus years.

• Power approximately two million homes and businesses across Ontario, safely and reliably.

• Maintain and secure highly skilled jobs.

• Create significant economic impact of more than $19 billion over the refurbishment period in Durham Region and across the province.

Hello, Whitby!

It’s such a joy to write this letter and work on a magazine that highlights all the amazing things about Whitby. My relationship with Whitby goes back to 1989 when I moved here with my family at age eight. Many of my best memories are in this town.

I attended Glen Dhu P.S. and later Sinclair Secondary School, both the year they opened. Whitby is where I joined Girl Guides, watched my brother’s baseball games, and biked to the recreation centre for a swim. It’s where I learned to drive, got my first job at IGA, and went on my first date at Wheelies. Years later, it’s where my husband and I got married, and my childhood home still stands.

For 20 years, I had the privilege of working as a reporter in Durham Region, telling our community’s stories, many in Whitby. I was there for the good and the bad, the joyous and the heartbreaking. Now, I’m thrilled to be working at the Town of Whitby during a truly transformative time.

Whitby is one of Canada’s fastest-growing communities, with exciting projects on the horizon. It still has the charm of a small town but the culture, culinary scene, and amenities of a bigger city.

Working on this magazine made me fall in love with my hometown all over again. I hope you enjoy reading about life in Whitby as much as our team enjoyed writing about it.

Jillian Follert

Jillian Follert, Editor-In-Chief, Your Town - Whitby’s Magazine

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR TOWN WHITBY'S PUBLISHING TEAM

Dear Readers,

It is with great pride and excitement that we present Your Town, a magazine dedicated to celebrating and sharing the unique stories, businesses, and vibrant culture of Whitby. Over recent years, Whitby has blossomed into a thriving community where businesses, families, and individuals come together to create an atmosphere of warmth, connection, and shared growth. Whitby fosters innovation, supports local talent, and embraces all who contribute to its vibrant character.

At Graymatter, we are inspired by the incredible leadership of Mayor Roy, whose vision and dedication have helped Whitby flourish. Her commitment to fostering a thriving, inclusive community has been invaluable, and her impact is seen and felt by all who call Whitby home.

Your Town is a platform designed to showcase the stories that make Whitby unique—from the businesses that fuel our economy to the events and people that bring us together. We aim to celebrate the heart of Whitby and share the moments that make it special.

Thank you for welcoming us into your homes and for joining us on this journey. Together, let’s continue to build and celebrate the town we all cherish.

Warm regards,

Audra Leslie

Audra Leslie, Publisher of Your Town Whitby & Owner of Graymatter Media

Council Q&A with Your Regional Councillors

Steve Yamada REGIONAL COUNCILLOR | WARD 1

So far this term, we are making great progress in areas that matter to you. We have approved the Durham Paramedic Services Strategy which includes a new station in south Whitby; adopted the new Regional Official Plan and Downtown Whitby Secondary Plan; advanced Durham’s fiveyear economic development and tourism strategy; and worked to keep taxes low in the wake of Ontario’s new planning regime.

This term we need to see action on car thefts. I will be initiating discussions with DRPS and working with other members of Council to assess the feasibility of a car baiting program. We will continue to work on moving plans forward for the new regional hospital in Whitby. Other priorities include improving conditions for economic development, finding operational savings to keep taxes low, continuing to improve our two historic downtowns, ensuring residents are included in the development process, and finding a solution for the Brooklin bypass. As your advocate, I will always listen to you and act on your concerns.

Maleeha Shahid REGIONAL COUNCILLOR | WARD 2

At times, it feels like I’m building a plane while flying it. I’m deeply grateful for the support I received during the election and remain fully committed to working tirelessly on your behalf and safeguarding Whitby’s reputation. I am dedicated to being a strong voice at Town Hall, always prioritizing our residents' interests. I’ve actively engaged with many of you, listening to your concerns and taking action. Fortunately, Whitby has exceptional staff who provide valuable support to our residents.

So far this term, I’ve hosted a town hall meeting and a community safety meeting in collaboration with Durham police. During the election, residents expressed their desire for a revitalized waterfront, more outdoor spaces, maintaining affordability, attracting businesses to create quality jobs, and reducing daily commuting. They also emphasized the need for better transit, traffic calming measures, a new hospital, and diverse recreation spaces for all ages. I will maintain my full dedication to the valuable insights shared by Whitby’s residents. Whether making decisions at Town Hall or at the Region, I will continue to work on your behalf to ensure Whitby remains an ideal place to live, work, and raise a family.

WE ASKED WHITBY'S REGIONAL COUNCILLORS:

“What do you plan to accomplish during this term of office?"

Chris Leahy REGIONAL COUNCILLOR | WARD 3

In the first year of this term, our focus was on establishing and implementing a Community Strategic Plan based on community feedback. Key goals include:

• Waterfront improvement: Revitalize the waterfront with public spaces, better recreational options, and improved accessibility.

• Downtown enhancements: Boost downtown vitality by attracting businesses, supporting local entrepreneurship, and enhancing aesthetics.

• Community and road safety: Work with DRPS to develop a comprehensive safety plan, improving traffic and pedestrian measures.

• Responsible growth: Follow the new official plan to balance residential, commercial, and green spaces while preserving our town's character.

Moving plans forward for a new hospital in Durham remains crucial. By setting these objectives and working diligently to achieve them, we will address the key concerns voiced by our residents. Regular updates will ensure transparency and alignment with residents' needs.

Rhonda Mulcahy REGIONAL COUNCILLOR | WARD 4

Something that’s very important to me this term, is ensuring that we have a Council that is collaborative and can work together as a team to do great things for Whitby. When Council is an effective team, it benefits our residents.

Making sure we have clear direction and that we’re listening to the community’s needs and priorities is also very important. That’s why we’ve put time into developing a Community Strategic Plan that will guide us over the next four years. This plan was created with a huge amount of community engagement and feedback, so Council can feel confident that we’re focusing on the things that matter most to our residents. This includes improving our waterfront and our downtowns, responsible growth, road safety and community safety, and continuing to move plans forward for a new hospital in Durham.

Council Q&A with Your Town Councillors

Steve Lee TOWN COUNCILLOR | WARD 1

For this term of Council, there are a few important items that I have been passionate about since I started on Council and that I know you the residents have told me are important to you.

I am looking forward to the sport complex being finished up. This has been a long time coming and something that everyone in Brooklin has wanted and needed for a long time. Another item I am very passionate about is road safety and speeding on our streets. A few initiatives I started have been the speed bumps that we are now seeing installed in our neighbourhoods, as well as asking Town staff to look at reducing all speed limits on all residential streets from 50km to 40km per hour to help reduce speeding. I also put forward a motion for staff to create a traffic calming strategy for the entire town of Whitby that will be used to guide road safety moving forward. I will always continue to push for safety in our neighbourhoods. I will also continue to focus on moving plans forward for a new hospital in Durham, we know health care close to home is very important to our residents. Finally, the last thing I would love to improve is communication to you the residents about what is happening in our town. Websites like connectwhitby.ca are a great example of how you can learn more about projects and share your input.

Matt Cardwell TOWN COUNCILLOR | WARD 2

The beginning of this term on Town Council has been full of memorable achievements and challenges. Like any new job, the learning curve is steep, and there’s little time to get oriented before important decisions are made. The first budget comes after only three months in the role, and I found that very daunting. I am looking forward to being a larger part of that process in years to come with the valuable experience I have gained. During this term I am excited to get activity going on the waterfront, such as the Town Brewery pop-up. I have been advocating for more commercial and industrial projects to come to Whitby. We need this to create good local jobs and help ease the property tax burden. I will also continue to advocate for a new hospital in Durham. Another goal has been to see traffic calming in our neighbourhoods. During the election this was a common goal for the residents I spoke with. While trying to action these things, I have been learning and listening from my Council colleagues. I would like to thank them and Mayor Roy for helping me to be an effective Councillor for the residents of West Ward. The learning will continue, and I could not be more excited for what’s to come.

WE ASKED WHITBY'S TOWN COUNCILLORS:

“What do you plan to accomplish during this term of office?"

Niki Lundquist TOWN COUNCILLOR | WARD 3

The learning curve is steep for those genuinely wanting change. When I ran, I committed to asking hard questions, while maintaining respect and bringing common sense to the council table. I take seriously my responsibility to centre the people of our ward in every decision we make. That will always be my primary goal.

Genuine engagement with residents over issues big and smaller are the foundations of good representation and I am working hard to stay connected. I will continue to move motions that support a sustainable future, and a safer and inclusive community

Victoria Bozinovski TOWN COUNCILLOR | WARD 4

Supporting local business growth, enhancing community engagement, and addressing housing affordability. If we work together, stay committed and create goals, we can work towards solving the issues our community faces by articulating clearer objectives.

There is a need to be more efficient with tax dollars to ensure that the Town of Whitby can deliver the essential services our community can expect and rely on.

I will work closely with staff and other members of Council to find solutions to prioritize community safety and address growing concerns over road safety and traffic calming.

I will take steps to address climate-friendly affordable housing initiatives as well as enhance community engagement by creating a direct line of communication for residents and business owners to engage in future decision-making in an open, honest, and transparent way.

A Vibrant Community for

Living, Working, & Investing

As the chief administrative officer of the Town of Whitby, I take immense pride in highlighting the many reasons why our community is a remarkable place to live, work, invest, and do business. With its unique blend of history, natural beauty, economic opportunities, and strong sense of community, Whitby has emerged as an exceptional destination in the heart of Ontario.

University, further strengthens our reputation as a knowledge-based economy.

Whitby, A Vibrant Community for Living, Working, & Investing

Whitby boasts a rich history that is intricately woven into the fabric of our town. Our historic downtown, with its charming heritage buildings, offers a nostalgic ambiance and a range of boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. Additionally, we are home to the beautifully preserved Lynde House Museum, which serves as a window into Whitby's past. Our commitment to preserving our heritage ensures that residents and visitors alike can experience the timeless beauty of Whitby.

Beyond our historical charm, Whitby is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. Our picturesque waterfront, stretching along Lake Ontario, offers breathtaking views, tranquil walking trails, and recreational opportunities for all. From sailing and fishing to picnicking and simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the beach, our waterfront provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our commitment to environmental stewardship and conservation ensures that these natural assets will be cherished for generations to come.

Whitby is not only a great place to live but also a thriving hub for economic growth and opportunity. Our strategic location, within close proximity to major transportation routes and the Greater Toronto Area, makes Whitby an ideal destination for businesses and investors. Our business-friendly environment, combined with a highly skilled workforce, has attracted a diverse range of industries, including advanced manufacturing, technology, healthcare, and more. The presence of top-notch educational institutions, such as Durham College and Ontario Tech

Furthermore, the Town of Whitby is committed to supporting and nurturing entrepreneurship and small businesses. We offer a range of resources, including business incubators, networking events, and mentorship programs, to help entrepreneurs thrive. Whether you are a startup looking to establish your roots or an established business seeking new opportunities, Whitby provides a fertile ground for growth and success.

One of the key factors that truly sets Whitby apart is our strong sense of community. We are a tight-knit town where neighbours become friends and residents take pride in contributing to the betterment of our community. Our town organizes a wide array of events and activities throughout the year, bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds. From festivals and art exhibitions to community clean-ups and charity drives, there is always something happening in Whitby. This sense of belonging and camaraderie creates an environment that fosters personal and professional growth, making Whitby a place where everyone can thrive.

The Town of Whitby offers a unique combination of history, natural beauty, economic opportunities, and a strong sense of community that make it an exceptional place to live, work, invest, and do business.

We invite you to experience the warmth and vibrancy of Whitby and discover why it is a destination of choice for individuals, families, entrepreneurs, and investors.

Sincerely,

Matt Gaskell

Matt Gaskell Chief Administrative Officer Town of Whitby

Winter in the Spa Village

Discover a serene wellness oasis. A place of comfort where you can unwind and shed your daily worries. Our spa village is unique, featuring cutting-edge facilities and architectural designs reminiscent of a bygone era when life was intimately intertwined with nature.

Indulge in sauna rituals, explore tranquil thermal baths, savour awe-inspiring vistas, and revel in soothing experiences across the village. Immerse yourself in the pleasures of farm-to-table dining at one of our numerous restaurants or allow your worries to ﬂoat away in Källa. Your relaxation journey begins here.

Book your winter getaway today at thermea.com/whitby

GEMS in WHITBY

By Jillian Follert, Public Affairs Coordinator, Office of the Mayor

Whether you’re new in town, a longtime Whitby resident or a visitor exploring the town here are 10 hidden gem experiences to check out!

Watch the sunset at the pier by the lighthouse and listen to the sounds of Lake Ontario.

Browse locally made products and pop-up events at the Maker’s Hub (1380 Hopkins St.) then grab an epic sandwich next door at Great Canadian Meat Company (1390 Hopkins St.).

Relax with a drink and take in the view of downtown from the third-floor rooftop patio and lounge at Brock Street Brewery (244 Brock St. S.).

Check out chickadees, chipmunks and even deer at Lynde Shores Conservation Area (entrances on Victoria Street West and Halls Road South).

Tuck into a massive chicken and garlic pita from Pita Deli where locals line up for the huge portion sizes and house-made sauces (1600 Champlain Ave.).

Wander through Pearson Lanes in Downtown Whitby including stops for rare and hard-tofind candy at Xotic Knacks, gifts at Unique Town Boutique, and coffee at Maritos Coffee and Things.

Eat ice cream and listen to live music in Grass Park in Brooklin (41 Baldwin St.) on a summer evening. Nearby Tip Top Creamery (2 Roebuck St.) has more than two dozen flavours of Kawartha Dairy ice-cream to choose from.

Explore the many murals of Whitby – some in plain site and some tucked away in back alleys. They make amazing photo ops!

Take a leisurely walk with family and friends through Cullen Central Park (4015 Cochrane St.), listening to the sounds of the creek and grabbing a photo on one of the beautiful bridges.

Browse the big bakery case at the Village Bake Shop (601 Dundas St. W.) and try to decide between apple fritters, homemade donuts, Long Johns, or dozens of other homemade treats.

Play classic arcade games like Pac-Man or Asteroids and enjoy retro comfort food at 8-Bit Beans arcade, gaming lounge and café (100 Brock St. S.) in downtown Whitby.

NOTHING A

T RAF ALGAR GIRL

CAN’T HANDLE

If you’ve driven through downtown Whitby, chances are you’ve seen a stunning castle nestled among tall trees. That castle is Trafalgar Castle School, an independent day and boarding school for girls in Grades 4 through 12. With a 150-year legacy of educating and empowering girls, the school prides itself on exceptional academics within a warm, progressive community, preparing young women to succeed and make significant impacts in their post-secondary journey and the real world.

Nothing a Trafalgar Girl Can't Handle

Small School, Big Results

Trafalgar Castle School is small by design, ensuring every student is seen, known, and supported in reaching their full potential. With a 1:6 teacherto-student ratio, Trafalgar offers opportunities for global perspectives as day and international boarding students from diverse cultures and backgrounds learn together.

Creating Future Leaders

When the top athlete, the smartest student, and the robotics team captain are girls, it sends a powerful message: “Nothing a Trafalgar girl can’t handle.” Trafalgar builds a foundation for courage and tenacity inside and outside its Castle walls, focusing on futureready competencies and fostering confidence. Students at Trafalgar feel confident taking on challenges because they’re surrounded by driven girls and women excelling in science, technology, engineering, math, the arts, and athletics. Whether inspired by fellow students, teachers, or alumnae leading in fields like engineering, medicine, and law, Trafalgar students think freely, step out of their comfort zones, and take risks.

A Strong Foundation

Trafalgar has developed seven futureready competencies — collaborative leaders, system thinkers, creators and innovators, critical thinkers, communicators, global citizens, and self-aware learners. These competencies anchor all subject areas and flow together seamlessly. The foundation of future-ready skills begins in Grade 4 and continues through to graduation. Science, technology, art, and math programs are scaffolded from Grades 4 to 12, ensuring skill progression for success in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) and beyond. Robotics, computational thinking, and hands-on learning are integrated, offering challenges alongside social sciences. This approach inspires informed, curious, and engaged learners ready to navigate the world with insight and empathy.

Experiential learning is also essential at Trafalgar. The “Beyond the Castle” program offers real-world learning experiences across Ontario, like STEM workshops at the University of Waterloo and networking workshops in Canada’s capital.

Partnering for Success

Trafalgar’s partnerships with organizations across Ontario enrich the academic experience. A key example is the partnership with Ontario Tech University (OTU), providing students access to advanced technology and coding events. Grade 9 students enhance their skills in OTU’s Maker’s Lab, while Grades 11 and 12 compete in OTU’s “Capture the Flag” coding competitions. These opportunities nurture passions, develop skills, and enable students to realize their potential.

Post-Secondary Preparedness

Trafalgar graduates are welcomed by post-secondary institutions in Canada, the U.S., the U.K., and other international universities, pursuing studies in Arts & Humanities, Engineering, Health, and Business, among others. Many students secure notable scholarships. Over 95% of Trafalgar graduates are Ontario Scholars, compared to the provincial average of 60%. Trafalgar also offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, often accepted as first-year university credits. These courses enable students to explore subjects in greater depth and prepare for post-secondary studies.

Behind Students Every Step of the Way

Trafalgar’s specialized programs prepare students for the future. Programs like Traf Steps develop emotional intelligence and conflict resolution skills, while the Advisor Program and Dragon’s Den offer academic assistance. The High Performing Athletes and Artists Program supports Grades 9-12 students pursuing elite-level activities.

For 150 years, Trafalgar Castle School has shaped leaders and innovators, creating a legacy of confident, empowered women who leave with more than just a diploma.

Five

FIVE OF WHITBY’S MOST

Fun & Unique Playgrounds

By Jillian Follert, Public Affairs Coordinator, Office of the Mayor

Did you know Whitby is home to more than 100 beautiful parks with features like playgrounds, picnic areas, splash pads, trails, sports fields, tennis courts, off-leash dog areas, skateboard parks, and more?

When planning new playgrounds, Town of Whitby staff aim to include a variety of unique features to avoid cookie-cutter designs.

If your family is looking to shake up the playground routine, here are five fun spots to check out.

features: Bee-themed structures, zipline, and exercise equipment.

Unique features: Canoe, animal statues, and water

Baycliffe Park | 20 Baycliffe Dr.

Unique features: Two huge tube slides perfect for racing and super tall rocket ship climber.

Unique features: Fitness/parkour area, spinner, and musical instruments.

Unique features: Zipline and pyramid-shaped rope climber.

Des Newman WhitBEE Park | 105 Des Newman Blvd.

Unique

Darren Park | 75 Darren Ave.

feature in the sandpit area.

Vanier Park | 99 Vanier St.

Lynde Creek Park | 125 Coronation Rd.

Town: Whitby’s

So mu to Z

This is YOUR Toronto Zoo, Whitby! When is the last time you visited?

Open year-round, the Zoo is always a great place to visit, with something for everyone to explore, learn and enjoy! Fall in love with some of your favourite animals with the beautiful picturesque walks around the Zoo, situated in the heart of the Rouge National Urban Park.

Plus, all winter long you can watch animals enjoy the cooler temperatures, and play in the snow! Grab a hot chocolate or visit one of our ﬁve indoor tropical pavilions to warm up!

We can’t wait to see you! Join us as we celebrate our 50th year of saving and protecting wildlife and wild spaces. Plan your visit today at torontozoo.com

10 Questions with Mayor Elizabeth Roy

By Jillian Follert, Public Affairs Coordinator, Office of the Mayor

Elizabeth Roy was elected Mayor of Whitby in October 2022, and brings more than 27 years of experience in municipal politics to the role. Get to know Whitby’s new mayor – including how she started in local politics, what her goals are for this term and what she’s most proud of accomplishing in her first two years on the job.

Q: Your involvement in municipal politics goes back to 1997 when you were first elected as a school board trustee. What made you want to run for office in the first place?

I moved here in 1993 and got to know Marcel Brunelle, a Regional Councillor at the time, and his wife. He asked me to help with his mayoral campaign. At that time, I didn’t have any political experience, other than I was a hard worker. Politics was something I grew up with. My parents were always very politically involved, and politics was always something we discussed around the dinner table.

In 1997, I was encouraged to put my name in to run for School Board Trustee, so I filed on the last day. I was a young mom at the time. Elise was three, Joseph was six. I had a little green wagon – we photocopied a one-page flyer, and we walked Whitby together and hand delivered flyers. The community connections I made were amazing.

I always tell my kids, you get from the community what you put in. My parents taught us that. My mom was a nurse and she worked midnights but was still involved at our school. My dad was a very giving man who was involved in the Dutch Christian Reformed Church. When they were rebuilding the church, he would use his talents to help make the new pews and pulpit. They taught us a lot about being involved in the community and the importance of giving back.

Q. What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned over more than 25 years in municipal politics?

The big one is, never give up. There may be hurdles but there is always a way to find a solution. Even if that solution is not the one that you set out to achieve, there are options that let you find a happy balance.

For example, when I was a School Board Trustee, it took us five years to get a new school we were fighting for - the rules that were set under the Harris government and then the Liberal government made it very difficult. We worked consistently for five years and finally it happened. You have to be persistent in the face of setbacks and challenges.

Another important lesson is the need to do your homework. Don’t assume you know all the answers, take the time to research and learn and talk to the people who are experts or have the knowledge and life experience. Ask questions and listen and be open to new information.

Q. What do you love about Whitby?

The people. The people of our community are amazing. I didn’t grow up in Whitby - but I feel like I was always a part of Whitby. I remember when I moved here in 1993, I was a young mom and I would go grocery shopping in downtown Whitby - people would say “good morning!” or “how are you?” It was so nice; I quickly became very comfortable here. The people in Whitby care a lot about the community and are very involved in giving back. I often get warm greetings when I’m out in the community and that means a lot to me.

I also love all the wonderful, diverse amenities that we have in Whitby. The beautiful waterfront, all the trails and parks and green spaces, the community centres, the cultural hubs like the Station Gallery, the local businesses, our growing culinary scene, our two downtowns, the Abilities Centre – there are so many places I could list. These are the things that make Whitby an amazing place to live, work, own a business or even just come for a visit.

Q: What are some of the characteristics about you that make you a good politician?

My communication skills and the ability to listen. I try to make a lot of time to meet with people and listen to them, I have the philosophy that my door is always open. I have the ability to sit with someone and talk things through and find common ground.

People have also told me that I am approachable and easy to talk to, which is very nice to hear. I try to be – I want to be a Mayor that people feel comfortable sharing thoughts and concerns with.

You have to be persistent in the face of setbacks and challenges.

Q: What are you most proud of accomplishing in your first two years as Mayor?

When I was campaigning, I promised to create a Community Strategic Plan that would guide the municipality over the next four years. That process started almost immediately after I took office. We had thousands of residents provide feedback as part of two community consultation periods and Council approved a final version of the plan in June 2023 with 62 action items based on the priorities that matter most to residents. The plan includes regular reporting to the public so we can ensure transparency. Our latest report shows we’re making amazing progress in a short time with 90 per cent of action items underway or complete. I’m also very proud that I am enhancing communication with residents and stakeholders.

In the first two years of this term, I launched a monthly mayor’s newsletter available at whitby.ca or by email subscription, introduced a series of “Coffee with Mayor Roy” events in the community that took place in Summer 2023 and 2024, and introduced a monthly Council Highlights document and video that help residents stay informed on Council decisions. I host regular roundtables with key community sectors, I write a monthly op-ed column that appears on durhamregion.com, and this fall I started a new series of “Talk Budget with Mayor Roy” events in the community.

There is so much more to talk about, but I would say I am also most proud of our work to bring a hospital to Whitby. As a former healthcare worker, I have been a strong advocate for this for many years – in February 2024 I worked with Town of Whitby staff to launch a very bold and innovative community advocacy campaign designed to increase awareness of this need and

put pressure on the province. It was an immense success – the voices of our residents were heard and on Aug. 1, 2024, the province announced a planning grant for a new hospital in Whitby.

Q. What has been your biggest frustration in your first term as mayor?

The biggest frustration is people who believe they can treat me, and the people on my team, in ways that are completely unacceptable.

I also find it frustrating trying to navigate the system and the bureaucracy at this level of government as well as federally, provincially, and regionally – it takes too long to get solutions and that’s very difficult.

Adjusting to the intense schedule and timetable that I have as mayor has also been a big adjustment. It’s not a frustration, but it is definitely something that takes time to get used to.

Q. What are your main goals for your first term in office?

Creating strong teams and clearly establishing who we are and what our priorities are. Continuing to move the Community Strategic Plan forward, which will be so important to setting goals for the next four years and having measurables that are reported regularly. Continuing to improve communication and transparency with the community so residents are up to date on what we’re doing. Moving plans for the new hospital forward now that we have the planning grant secured. Continuing our efforts to revitalize our two downtowns and focusing on how the Town can support economic development. Those are just some examples, there is so much I plan to accomplish this term with the support of my colleagues on Council.

We are achieving what we set out to do.

Q. You recently retired from a long career in health care. What did you enjoy about working as a medical radiation therapist? What are some of the lessons you took away from that experience?

Over the years, I learned a lot about being there for people who are in need. Being there for the journey of someone who is experiencing cancer – holding a hand or giving a hug or even talking about death and dying in some cases. When I worked at Princess Margaret Hospital I was on the pediatric team and I was a young mom. It was a very moving experience to support families as a fellow parent. It was a privilege to be able to be there for people and help and comfort them in some way.

Some of the lessons I took away were how to evaluate stats and performance, doing daily huddles to share information, and the importance of having policies and procedures to guide your work.

I loved working with my co-workers and teaching students, it was a wonderful career.

Q. You often talk about how proud you are to be a mother and a grandmother. How has your experience in those roles helped make you the person you are today?

As a parent you learn so many skillspatience, coping mechanisms, and how to adapt to different situations and needs. My daughter Elise has learning disabilities and throughout the years of being an advocate for her I learned persistence and how to navigate different systems. It’s not a role that ends, I continue to do those things.

Time management is another skill I learned. It was important to me to be involved in the things my kids were involved in, but I was a working mom, then I was a Trustee and then a Councillor and I had to learn how to balance everything. Even now, I talk to my kids every single day, and I make sure to make time for that. Parents know how to work smarter not harder – that’s a lesson I lean on every day as I get used to the intense schedule that comes with being mayor.

Why Whitby?

Find out why Whitby has become a top choice for

investment

By Jillian Follert, Public Affairs Coordinator, Office of the Mayor

Whitby is a town in transition. The shift from a small suburban community to a thriving commercial centre is well underway – and it’s a change for the better that will mean more local jobs, more opportunities, and a stronger economy.

Whitby has become a top choice for investment, due to many factors that set it apart from other Ontario municipalities.

Location is one example, says Paul Pirri, senior manager of economic development at the Town of Whitby.

In addition to its location in the heart of Durham Region, Whitby is well-positioned within the broader GTA.

“We’re 45 minutes from the City of Toronto and close to three 400-series highways, Pearson Airport, and the Port of Oshawa,” Pirri explains.

Data shows there are 13 million customers within a onehour drive of Whitby and 135 million within a one-day drive.

Whitby also “continues to be among the most costeffective locations to invest in the Greater Toronto Area,” Pirri says.

Detached house prices are approximately 30 to 45 per cent lower in Whitby compared with other suburban markets in the north and west GTA, while office rent is about 10 per cent lower.

Whitby also boasts lower industrial land prices and leasing rates.

In addition to the highly competitive cost of doing business, Whitby has enviable access to a highly educated workforce - 68 per cent of Whitby’s workingage population has college, university, or apprenticeship level education.

“We’re able to take advantage of local post-secondary institutions. Our labour force pipeline is fueled by major research projects, co-op student placements, and jobready graduates,” says Pirri.

There are over 22,000 students attending the area’s three leading universities and colleges and Durham College recently saw a $10 million expansion of its Centre for Skilled Trades.

You can also find more than 30 education institutions located within an hour’s drive of Whitby.

If you ask business owners, there are many reasons for choosing Whitby.

“Whitby has a small town feel with a big town opportunity and culture,” says Chris Kellestine, president of Golder Associates WSP.

“A huge reason why we thought Whitby is a perfect place to open Aspire Climbing is access to all the different communities around Durham Region,” says Sarah Kostadinov, owner of Aspire Climbing.

“You’ve got access to a huge amount of talent that would rather work in the town that they live in versus commuting to Toronto. That’s a real advantage, so Whitby is like the best kept secret for tech,” says David Lahey, CEO at Predictive Success.

Another factor drawing attention to Whitby, is the fact that it’s one of the fastest growing communities in Canada.

The town is poised to see its population increase from about 14,000 today, to 193,000 by 2031.

Many new projects are on the horizon to support that growth including the new Whitby Sports Complex, new schools, and new residential developments.

Want to know more about some of the leading sectors in Whitby?

Quick facts

ABOUT THREE OF WHITBY’S TOP SECTORS

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING

• Over 3,600 workers are employed in manufacturing roles.

• There are more than 100 manufacturing companies in Whitby.

• Areas of specialty include automotive, pharmaceutical, nuclear and more.

• Sector leaders include Gerdau, Real Tech Inc., Lear Corporation and ABB Inc.

• Gerdau recently received $20 million from the federal government to support an $81.2 million upgrade of its Whitby and Cambridge locations.

PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL SERVICES

• Close to 700 companies in Whitby provide professional services.

• Whitby has over 30 per cent of its labour force in management, business and finance occupations.

• Sector leaders include Mitch Insurance, Golder Associates WSP, GHD and T2 Utility Engineers.

INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES

• Education partners at Durham College, Ontario Tech University and Trent University offer innovative undergraduate and graduate programs focusing on all areas of information technology. Courses include: Computer Science; Data Science; Game Development and Interactive Media; and Networking and Information Technology Security.

• Whitby has a strong network of supports for the technology sector including 1855 Accelerator, Spark Centre and Ontario Power Generation X-Lab.

• Sector leader geekspeak serves well-known brands like Amazon, Canadian Tire, Walmart, Staples, New Balance and Best Buy.

Inspiring Dancers

AWARD WINNING DANCE ACADEMY

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Entrepreneurs

Started by Young Entrepreneurs

By Jillian Follert, Public AffairsCoordinator, Office of the Mayor

Whitby has so many unique and interesting businesses to explore – here are five to check out that were started by young entrepreneurs.

One More Cocoa

116 Athol St., Whitby | Onemorecoca.com

Many people started new hobbies and pursued their passions during the pandemic - including Kenesha Lewis who became a chocolatier and went on to launch popular Whitby chocolate shop One More Cocoa.

The business started as an online store in May 2021. In September 2021, a brick-and-mortar location opened in downtown Whitby.

Inspired by an old Caribbean proverb, “One One Cocoa, Full Basket” - meaning one step at a time - One More Cocoa offers handmade, gourmet chocolate bars in more than a dozen flavours including birthday cake, lemon poppyseed and caramel popcorn, as well as gourmet bonbons. Lewis says she loves Whitby’s small-town feel and the fact that residents want local businesses to succeed.

“Living in the Durham Region, I was familiar with Whitby, and I knew that despite the recent growth, there’s a small-town feel within the community,” Lewis says. "The people here want local businesses to succeed, and they support local businesses at every opportunity they get.”

When Lewis isn’t busy creating new flavours, she’s working to expand the business, like getting her bars carried by the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Black Owned Toronto store at the Scarborough Town Centre and HelloFresh Marketplace.

Aspire Climbing Whitby

1400 Victoria St. E. Unit 4, Whitby | aspireclimbing.com

Aspire Climbing Whitby opened in October 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic. Owner Sarah Kostadinov was inspired to create a “positive, encouraging space” to help grow the sport of climbing and ninja in Durham. The fullservice indoor rock climbing and ninja warrior facility is almost 15,000 square feet and offers top rope, auto belay, bouldering, lead climbing and a ninja warrior course. A training and fitness area was recently added with two squat racks, dumbbells, hangbards, campus boards, benches, plates and more. Aspire Climbing offers lessons, programming and camps as well as hosting parties and events.

“Aspire Whitby is a place where people can grow, learn, workout, socialize, challenge themselves and have fun,” Kostadinov says. “Personally, I’m on a mission to drive change. To prove that climbing is for everyone. Regardless of age, skill set, disability, gender - anyone can climb and we see it every day.”

Aspire Climbing Whitby recently launched an Adaptive Climbing Program, which allows people with disabilities to climb. The facility was part of Durham Region’s 2023 ParaSport Games and saw a huge turnout. Free “tryus-out” nights are offered at the end of each month for adaptive climbers.

Brookstead Fine Flowers

103 Mary St. W., Whitby

This downtown Whitby flower shop started in 2018 as a home-based business and transitioned to a shop at 103 Mary St. W. in July 2020.

“I have always been an artist, and after working in my grandfather’s flower shop as a teen, I quickly found that I had found my medium - flowers!” says owner Hilary Rambachan.

Brookstead Fine Flowers offers memorable flower arrangements and bouquets for all occasions. A focus on attention to detail and an eye for colour and design results in one-of-a-kind pieces.

Rambachan takes pride in long-lasting fresh flowers and a unique and natural style.

“I believe that flowers should be enjoyed and soaked into the soul; through touch, smell, and sight,” she says. “Flowers are an unreplicatable natural beauty on this earth, and life is too short not to enjoy them.”

Overscore Media

670 Taunton Rd. E., Whitby | overscore.media

solutions for local businesses – such as custom websites, e-commerce stores, graphic designs, web/mobile applications and more.

The company was founded in February 2021 by Joshua Rose and Matthew Piercey. At the time, they were Trent University students with a very straightforward plan“make cool stuff.”

The team at Overscore is made up of young, talented, ambitious tech graduates on a mission to become one of the biggest names in the industry.

“Since every business is unique, we have a lot of fun rolling up our sleeves to meet their needs, with our unique brand of detail-orientation,” says Rose. “Our business is still in its early stages, so our team operates in a fully remote environment. Eventually we plan to open our own garage as a space to create everything from the next big app, to robots, to video games. Until then, we’re leveraging the best of both worlds, as a remote team with a local focus.”

Vitality Juice Co.

71 Baldwin St., Brooklin | vitalityjuiceco.ca

Brooklin juice bar Vitality Juice Co. offers fresh coldpressed juice, lemon-aid, smoothies, coffee, lattes, and tea.

Lauren Pifher launched the business in 2019 – it started online with local juice delivery and then grew to include farmers markets and pop-ups. The juice bar opened in spring 2022. In addition to drinks, you can find healthy treats, smoothie bowls, and toast.

Everything is made in-house with 100 per cent organic, superfood ingredients.

“I wanted to start this business mainly because I was frustrated with the lack of truly healthy options for convenient ‘fast food’ in Durham Region,” says Pifher who has training as a raw food chef and has been juicing for more than a decade. “In this day and age where everyone is on the go, it can be hard to reach all your required nutritional needs and it helps to have places you can go to for quality food you can trust.”

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Whitby Focuses on Tourism

“DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW TO ENJOY.”

Whitby Focuses on Tourism with Strategy, Branding & Website

By Jillian Follert, Public Affairs Coordinator, Office of the Mayor

Whether

you’re a longtime Whitby resident or a visitor exploring the town for the first time, Whitby’s tourism branding invites you to

“discover

something new to enjoy”

Located in the heart of Durham Region, Whitby is quickly becoming a day-tripper destination thanks to its small-town charm combined with the amenities of a larger urban centre.

The town boasts two heritage downtowns; the largest family entertainment centre east of Toronto; Thermea Spa Village; a recreational harbour with an award-winning marina; yearround sports and recreation activities; parks and trails; golf courses and spas; and a buzz-worthy culinary scene that includes farmers markets, craft breweries, pubs, cafes, and unique restaurants.

Events and festivals like Brooklin Harvest Festival, Food Truck Frenzy, and the Brooklin Spring Fair have also put Whitby on the map.

The Town of Whitby’s first-ever tourism strategy was approved in May 2022, aiming to guide tourism support, promotion, planning, and development through 2025.

“As one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Ontario, the Town of Whitby is looking at strategies and plans to help manage the growth pressures and maintain the high quality of life that makes Whitby attractive to residents and visitors,” says Lara Toman, manager of events, tourism, and culture at the Town of Whitby.

Destination Whitby, the 2022- 2025 Whitby Tourism Strategy, includes three key objectives with eight goals and thirtythree action items designed to leverage the visitor economy and make the town visitor-ready.

In 2023, the Town of Whitby launched a new tourism website - one of the recommended actions in the strategy – as well as an Instagram account and branding featuring the tagline “discover something new to enjoy” and the #explorewhitby hashtag.

“Differentiating Whitby in the market includes identifying our unique themes, using quality data and research, and building a tourism brand – Discover Something New to Enjoy @explorewhitby and #explorewhitby,” Toman says.

The whitby.ca/explore website focuses on four areas — See and Do, Food and Drink, Plan Your Trip and Get Inspired.

It serves as an information hub for locals, prospective travelers planning a getaway, and families that visit Whitby for sports tournaments and events.

Website visitors can find the third edition of Whitby’s award-winning Digital Food Guide, practical information like getting to and around Whitby, lists of attractions, walking food tours, and more.

“

A thriving tourism industry can act as a positive economic driver ”

“A thriving tourism industry can act as a positive economic driver for Whitby and support local business, Toman says – and the data backs that up."

In 2019 Durham Region welcomed 3.6 million annual visitors, generating $321 million in new spending.

That same year, tourism was Canada’s number one service export, totaling two per cent of total exports, generating $105 billion in revenue, and accounting for 2.1 million jobs.

Data for 2023 shows 2.6 million visits to Downtown Whitby, 195,615 of which were unique local visitors and 36,702 of which were tourists from over 40 km away.

There were 2.8 million visits to the Whitby Entertainment Centrum, including 196,667 unique local visitors and 78,551 tourists from over 40 km away.

The numbers were obtained using location-based technology called geofencing.

Whitby has significant infrastructure to support the tourism industry including Port Whitby Marina with 420 slips; the Waterfront Trail and Greenbelt Cycling routes; 2,000 acres of parks and conservation areas; more than 120 parks with playgrounds, picnic areas, washrooms, and splash pads; two dog parks; and over 60 km of trails.

The town also benefits from the major travel corridors of three 400-series highways and is just 45 minutes from Pearson International Airport, as well as accessible to GO Transit riders.

Whitby Council also recently approved a Municipal Accommodation Tax, which is a local tax levied by municipalities on the purchase of transient accommodations such as hotels and motels.

The purpose is to generate revenue to support local tourism initiatives and promotion of Whitby.

The Town of Whitby will use this new revenue stream to expand the community’s capacity for tourism offerings such as sports, arts, music, heritage, and cultural or food experiences.

Toman says tourism work can’t be done in silos – Whitby also benefits from collaboration with organizations like Durham Tourism, Central Counties Tourism and Sport Durham.

For more information visit whitby.ca/explore or check out @explorewhitby on Instagram.

July 2017

Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding Veridian Corporation and Whitby Hydro Energy Corporation announce that they have reached the first milestone in merger evaluations with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding.

June 2018

Shareholders Approve Proposed Merger

All five municipal shareholders of Veridian Corporation and Whitby Hydro Energy Corporation approve a proposed merger between the two companies to create a new energy corporation.

FIVE YEARS OF PROGRESS & INNOVATION

This year, Elexicon Energy celebrates its fifth anniversary, marking a half-decade of steadfast commitment to reliable, innovative, and community-focused energy solutions. Born from the 2019 merger of Veridian Corporation and Whitby Hydro Energy Corporation, Elexicon is creating a brighter future for residents and businesses in the Town of Whitby by embracing new innovative technologies.

Elexicon’s success in its first five years include: the completion of the Seaton Municipal Transformer Station (one of the only ones owned and operated by a local distribution company) which now provides electricity to more than 20,000 homes and businesses, a new Integrated Operations Control Centre to oversee the electrical grid in Durham Region and beyond, and countless community collaborations. Elexicon’s dedication to grid modernization, capacity building, and customer service are all an important part of the story.

December 2018

Ontario Energy Board Approval

The Ontario Energy Board approves the proposed merger of Veridian Corporation and Whitby Hydro Energy Corporation.

January 2019

New Company Name Unveiled

Veridian Corporation and Whitby Hydro Energy Corporation unveil Elexicon Corporation and its subsidiaries, Elexicon Energy and Elexicon Group.

STRENGTHENING LOCAL ELECTRICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Durham Region continues to be a beautiful place to live, and as more individuals and families take notice of the vibrant area, households are craving more electricity to power their electric vehicles and other home electrical upgrades. To meet the new electricity needs of the region, Elexicon built the Seaton Municipal Transformer Station and now will be adding additional feeders onto the newly built station. A second municipal transformer station is in the process of being planned and is expected to come online around 2031.

Elexicon completed an upgrade to Des Newman infrastructure. The upgrade not only supports West Whitby’s expansion, but ensures that residents and industries alike benefit from reliable and continuous power supply, minimizing disruptions and preparing for future growth.

Another development is the 44kV Improvement Project in South Whitby. To accommodate increased industrial loads, Elexicon upgraded this high-voltage line to support additional feeder supply. By boosting the electricity flow capacity, Elexicon has laid a solid foundation for new businesses to thrive without compromising service quality.

Throughout Durham Region, the electricity company recently installed automated switches. These advanced, automated switches allow Elexicon’s team to respond more quickly and precisely to outages. When a disruption occurs, the automated switches can isolate the issue swiftly, reducing the number of affected customers and speeding up power restoration. This technology has proven invaluable, particularly during storms or peak usage times when outage response speed is critical.

PROACTIVE MAINTENANCE FOR LONG-TERM RESILIENCE

As part of its preventive maintenance strategy, Elexicon has prioritized regular maintenance initiatives across its service territory. These include planned replacements of aging pad-mounted transformers and poles. Such initiatives, though routine, are vital to maintaining uninterrupted service. Replacing older equipment enhances safety for residents and ensures system resilience in the long run. Through these consistent

April 2019

Elexicon Corporation and Subsidiaries are Formed

Veridian Corporation and Whitby Hydro Energy Corporation complete the closing of an agreement to merge the two companies to form Elexicon Corporation, the single shareholder of subsidiary corporations – Elexicon Energy and Elexicon Group.

efforts, Elexicon has built a robust foundation for the electrical grid, reducing the likelihood of large-scale outages and helping avoid unexpected repairs.

CELEBRATING WITH THE COMMUNITY

To get the community involved in celebrating its five years, Elexicon planned free events from spring to fall including a series of sponsored swim times at pools throughout its service territory, two accessible activities were planned in collaboration with the Whitby Abilities Centre, and a series of skating events planned at arenas in Durham Region this Fall. Elexicon is also proud to be an on-going sponsor of the Kids’ Safety Village of Durham Region. An Elexicon employee and former linesperson visits to the village regularly to teach classes on electrical safety. The village has drop-in times for families to visit on certain days. This year, the organization was able to donate more than $90,000 to local charities and community groups that are the backbone of the community.

A VISION FOR THE FUTURE: ELEXICON’S NEXT FIVE YEARS

Looking forward, Elexicon aims to continue evolving, with a vision that encompasses sustainability, efficiency, and a customer-first approach. Part of this vision involves the integration of greener energy solutions, expanding the adoption of renewable energy sources and modernizing the grid to handle these clean alternatives. Additionally, Elexicon is exploring ways to empower its customers through advanced digital services that allow for better energy tracking and personalized service.

Customers in Whitby are already reaping the benefits of Elexicon’s progressive approach. Through infrastructure upgrades, cutting-edge automation, and rigorous maintenance, Elexicon is securing a brighter, more sustainable energy future for the communities. As Elexicon moves into its next phase, Durham Region can anticipate an ongoing commitment to exceptional service, innovative solutions, and a forward-thinking approach that not only supports but enhances the community’s quality of life.

For a deeper look at Elexicon’s journey and future initiatives, visit Elexicon’s 5-Year Anniversary Page.

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