Authorization to Release Section 37 Funds from the Development at 201 Carlaw Avenue and 66 Boston Avenue for a Plaque Commemorating William (Billy) John McKay Jr. - by Councillor Paula Fletcher, seconded by Councillor Brad Bradford

The East York Municipal Building, R. H. MacGregor School and East York General Hospital were built on his former land. In the 1930's, however, tensions arose between Mr. McKay and East York, which saw his farm as an obstacle to the town's growth. Mr. McKay was determined to keep his property and rejected purchase offers. In old age, he became unable to maintain his farm and he died in Lakeshore Psychiatric Hospital in 1943. The Township of East York assumed ownership of his property in 1939 and the land was subdivided into residential lots. McKayfield Road at Cosburn Avenue is named after him for his generous contributions to East York. Mr. McKay is most deserving of an historical plaque that celebrates his generous contributions to East York. Funds have been secured and received from the development at 201 Carlaw Avenue and 66 Boston Avenue for a range of community benefits. The enacting By-law for the development provides that the monies may be redirected at the discretion of the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning, in consultation with the local Councillor, toward local park improvements, streetscape improvements, community facility improvements, public art, community gardens, pedestrian and cycling facilities, and heritage related improvements within Ward 30. The intended use of the funds comply with the purposes identified in the By-law. Since the plaque is intended to be installed in the East York Civic Centre, which is a hub for the community, the geographic proximity of the contributing developments is expandable. As Heritage Toronto is a directly funded City agency and not considered an "outside party", no undertaking is required to be signed by Heritage Toronto governing the use of the funds and financial reporting.