May 14, 2026
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With spring in full swing, I hope businesses across DUKE Heights are seeing increased activity and momentum heading into the summer months.
As the City prepares for FIFA World Cup 2026™, it’s seeking companies and organizations that may be interested in hosting match viewing sites. Toronto-based games will take place from June 12 to July 2. Viewing sites can be as simple as a multi-purpose room with a large-screen TV. Please let us know if you would be interested in participating. These events may be public or private. For more information, please visit https://fifaworldcup26.hospitality.fifa.com/ca/en.
On May 5, I toured several DUKE Heights businesses in the plaza on Finch Ave., east of Champagne Dr. It’s a wonderful plaza with a wide range of shops and services. I visited Ziyafet Turkish Cuisine, 416 Blends Barber Shop, L&P Village Green Jamaican Restaurant, Al Bukhari Community Centre, Modern Motorcars, among other establishments. The owners are all very gracious, and I’m very impressed by the heart and passion behind these businesses, as well as the crucial role they play in supporting the local economy.
On a provincial note, Ontario is mobilizing the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) for review of commercial property taxes. MPAC is responsible for accurately assessing and classifying property in the province for the purposes of municipal and education taxes. If you need more information, please visit https://www.mpac.ca/ and/or call your local Member of Provincial Parliament. MPAC is subject to the provisions of Ontario’s Assessment Act. This is out of the City of Toronto’s jurisdiction.
Lastly, Rogers Stadium will begin its concert season on May 23, with performances continuing through mid-September. Over the past year, we have been working hard on traffic and sound mitigation efforts. That said, there will be partial and temporary road closures on Sheppard Ave. on concert nights, which may cause some inconvenience. We sincerely apologize for this. Please visit https://www.rogers-stadium.com/ for more details.
As always, my office is here to assist with City services, business concerns, or any local matters that arise.
Wishing you a productive and successful May.
Sincerely,
James Pasternak
Toronto City Councillor
Ward 6 – York Centre
