Renaming Rosebank Park in Memory of Councillor Cynthia Lai

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The decision

2024-12-06 · Scarborough Community Council · amended

As filed

The Scarborough Community Council: 1. Directed the City Manager to undertake a review of the name "Cynthia Lai Park" in order to rename Rosebank Park, Scarborough to honour the late Councillor Cynthia Lai who represented Ward 23 - Scarborough North and direct the General Manager, Parks Forestry and Recreation report back in the second quarter of 2025, in accordance with the City of Toronto's Commemorative Framework and the City of Toronto Property Naming Policy, and with the inclusion of a biographical plaque.

The vote

Adopt Item as Amended · Carried, 6-0

For (6)Jamaal Myers, Jennifer McKelvie, Michael Thompson, Nick Mantas, Parthi Kandavel, Paul Ainslie

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As the city filed it

I am writing to formally propose renaming Rosebank Park (located at 1051 Progress Avenue) to Cynthia Lai Park in honour of the late Toronto City Councillor Cynthia Lai. Councillor Lai was a dedicated public servant who left a legacy in our community. She signified the spirit of service and inclusion that we strive to uphold in our City and was committed to improving the lives of residents in our Ward and throughout our City.

Show the rest of As the city filed it, 1,064 more characters as filed

Renaming Rosebank Park is a meaningful way to ensure her memory and contributions inspires future generations. My office has actively engaged the community to gather support for this proposal. With the permission and support of her family, a petition to rename the park in her honour was circulated and received overwhelming positive feedback from residents and local organizations. Community meetings and social media outreach have further demonstrated the broad consensus around commemorating Councillor Lai's legacy in this way. We have not encountered any opposition from park users or community stakeholders. As the first immigrant woman of Asian descent elected to City Council in Scarborough, Councillor Lai broke barriers. Her promotion of multiculturalism, support for marginalized groups, and her prioritization community development embodies the values that make Toronto a welcoming and vibrant city. Every visit to Rosebank will echo her commitment to serving the people of Scarborough North, fostering a deeper sense of connection among our residents.

Staff recommended

Councillor Jamaal Myers recommends that: 1. Scarborough Community Council direct the City Manager to undertake a review of the name "Cynthia Lai Park" in order to rename Rosebank Park, Scarborough to honour the late Councillor Cynthia Lai who represented Ward 23 - Scarborough North and direct the General Manager, Parks Forestry and Recreation report back in the second quarter of 2025, in accordance with the City of Toronto's Commemorative Framework and the City of Toronto Property Naming Policy.

On the record

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