November 29, 2025

Good afternoon,

I’m pleased to share my first weekly e-newsletter with you as your new City Councillor. In my community updates you will find news on local events, activities, City works, and new projects in all of our neighbourhoods.

I’ve met many of you at your door, at events, and at local businesses. I’ve enjoyed our talks, your opinions and your passion for your community.

I’m looking forward to connecting with you in the future.

Sincerely,

Neethan Shan

Scarborough’s newest community centre

Joined by Mayor Olivia Chow and City staff, we celebrated the opening of the new Rouge Valley Community Recreation Centre. This 94,000 square foot facility includes two pools, a full gym, the City’s first practice indoor cricket space, a child care centre, studios, and community rooms. Designed with extensive community input, it reflects our commitment to healthy, connected and sustainable neighbourhoods in Scarborough.

Community Forums

I want to hear from you. I’ve held community forums in Malvern, Highland Creek, and West Rouge. Upcoming forums will be held in West Hill, Centennial, and Morningside Heights. Our community forums are a place for residents to voice their concerns and solutions on neighbourhood matters. I will take your input and bring it to City Hall where your voice, Scarborough’s voice, will be heard.

Supporting Small Businesses

I visited over 40 local businesses, including Lamanna’s Bakery, home of the Big Slice. Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy. I am committed to their success and bringing local jobs to Scarborough.

Appointed to Toronto Hydro

I was appointed to the Board of Directors of Toronto Hydro Corporation. Keeping our homes, local businesses, and community spaces powered with reliable electricity is essential to daily life. I look forward to strengthening this connection in Scarborough and across the City to ensure our communities get safe, affordable and dependable service.

• All Toronto Public Library branches, including those in Scarborough like Highland Creek Library, are now open on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• The City has updated its snow removal plan this year for better monitoring, faster clearing, and central coordination.
• The City plans to finish Port Union Road by the end of 2025.
• The City has expanded free public Wi-Fi throughout the city, and in Scarborough.

Connecting with Neighbourhood Associations

It was a pleasure to meet with all five neighbourhood associations in Scarborough-Rouge Park and to speak at the AGMs of the West Rouge Community Association and the Centennial Community and Recreation Association.

Budget Consultations

Thank you to everyone who joined the City of Toronto Budget Consultation at the Scarborough Civic Centre. It was great connecting with residents, community leaders, and City staff to discuss our priorities in Toronto’s 2026 budget.

November is Hindu Heritage Month, a time to recognize the contributions of Hindu Canadians. Join us on November 30 at the Scarborough Civic Centre as we celebrate together with the community, and with Mayor Olivia Chow.

Supporting free zoo for school kids

Local kids and kids whose parents can’t afford admission prices should be able to enjoy the zoo. That’s why I supported a “Legacy of Learning” motion at City Hall for the City to explore the idea of school kids going to the Toronto Zoo for free. Every child from underserved areas should have the opportunity for a learning experience of a lifetime.

Holiday Bazaars

I had a wonderful time connecting with residents at more than seven holiday bazaars, including the Port Union Christmas Bazaar — a great opportunity to support local talent and enjoy some early holiday shopping. We got some art for the office too. As the holiday season begins, I encourage everyone to visit local community bazaars and support our local artists and creators.

Remembrance Day

I had the privilege of taking part in the Remembrance Day ceremonies across Scarborough — including the 40th annual service at the Toronto Zoo, the Scarborough Memorial Cenotaph, the Tony Stacey Centre for Veterans Care, and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 258 in Highland Creek.