Who do you want to be the Councillor for Ward 15, Don Valley West, City of Toronto?

Response from Habiba Desai

Dear Residents,

Thank you for your email. I want to assure you that I will advocate for the interests of Leaside residents, particularly regarding Public Safety, if elected as your City Councillor for Ward 15. 

I have attached the draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for your review. Feel free to edit it and add any specific requests or additional needs you may have. I believe this will help us better address the community’s concerns.

Once you’ve had a chance to review it, we can schedule a meeting to edit it, either online or in person.

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to collaborating with you.

Best,

Habiba Desai

Candidate for City Councillor, Ward 15
[email protected]
647-895-7934

===== Attachment =====

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)

Between Habiba Desai, Candidate for Ward 15, and Leaside Residents

Date: 26 September 2024

1. Purpose

The purpose of this MOU is to establish a collaborative partnership between Habiba Desai,
candidate for City Councillor in Ward 15, and the Leaside Residents Association to address key
community issues, enhance public safety, and promote sustainable development within the
ward.

2. Key Issues to Address

Public Safety:

• Advocate for enhanced measures against school shootings and terrorism.
• Establish women-only police stations to combat intimate partner violence.
• Implement community safety initiatives like “Paw Patrol” in collaboration with local
  community associations and the Jewish Security Network.

Responsible Development:

• Oppose unchecked development to ensure community needs and heritage are
  prioritized.
• Transform the Ontario Science Centre into the Elon Musk Space and Science Centre,
  focusing on community benefits and local employment opportunities, especially for
  vulnerable populations.
• Ensure that community benefits agreements are designed and paid for, promoting
  transparency and accountability in development projects.
  Youth Empowerment:
• Combat youth gun violence by creating the Khabib MMA Fight School, providing positive
  outlets for young people to foster discipline, resilience, and community engagement.
• Integrate MMA training into local sports programs, particularly hockey, to enhance
  physical conditioning and mental toughness among youth athletes.

3. Additional Needs

The Leaside Residents Association may identify additional needs or concerns that should be
addressed within this MOU. These may include but are not limited to:
Questions for the Leaside Residents Association

1. Infrastructure Improvements:
o What specific infrastructure improvements are needed in Leaside?
o Are there particular roads, sidewalks, or public transportation options that require
attention?

2. Environmental Concerns:
o What environmental issues are most pressing for the community?
o Are there specific areas where green spaces or sustainable practices should be
prioritized?

3. Community Engagement Activities:
o What types of community engagement activities would residents like to see?
o How can we foster better connections among residents?

4. Public Safety Initiatives:
o What public safety concerns do residents have?
o Are there areas in need of improved lighting or increased community policing?

5. Affordable Housing and Development:
o What are the community's thoughts on affordable housing?
o Are there specific developments or housing initiatives that should be addressed?

These additional needs will be discussed and mutually agreed upon by both parties and
incorporated into this MOU as necessary.

4. Responsibilities

Habiba Desai:

• To advocate for the aforementioned initiatives within the community and City Council.
• To bring the concerns of Leaside residents to the attention of City management and City
  Council, particularly regarding public safety.
• To engage residents in discussions about key issues and gather feedback for informed
  decision-making.
• To collaborate with local organizations, stakeholders, and residents to promote these
  initiatives.

Leaside Residents:

• To support and participate in the initiatives outlined in this MOU.
• To assist in outreach and engagement efforts within the community.
• To provide resources and expertise as needed to achieve the goals set forth in this
  agreement.
• To communicate any additional needs or concerns to Habiba Desai for consideration.

5. Duration

This MOU shall commence on the date signed and shall remain in effect from November 4,
2024, until the next municipal election in 2026.

6. Miscellaneous

This MOU represents the understanding between the parties and may be amended only by
mutual written agreement. The parties acknowledge that this MOU serves as a guideline for
collaboration.

Habiba Desai
Candidate for City Councillor, Ward 15