All Posts By

Stephen Dasko

Tree-t yourself to National Forest Week activities

By Parks, Resources

Bring the family to the inaugural Forestry Fall Festival, and take part in a tree giveaway or tree planting event to do your part to preserve trees – the lungs of our city.

September 12, 2025

Join us in celebrating National Forest Week from September 20 to 27 to show your appreciation for Mississauga’s trees and forests. Join a guided walk at a park, register for a tree giveaway, help plant trees, and interact with arborists, foresters and ecologists. There are many fun activities where you can learn about the importance of Mississauga’s urban forest and natural areas. Find out how you can help protect, restore, expand and enhance the city’s natural spaces.

Forestry Fall Festival kickoff

Don’t miss out on the new Forestry Fall Festival. This free event will be taking place at Erindale Park on Saturday, September 20 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It promises to be fun for the whole family. Drop by for activities like watching goats graze, seeing the Wild Ontario raptor show and the Scales Nature Park turtle show, and enjoy wagon rides with Fairytale Horse Carriages. There will also be guided nature walks, tree and wildflower giveaways, information booths, face painting, activities for children and more!

A woman and child planting a tree sapling

Other National Forest Week event details

What

The City is hosting a series of events in Mississauga to celebrate National Forest Week. Advance registration is required for these events:

  • Join tree planting events starting Saturday, September 13 through Saturday, November 1 at local parks at various times. Be sure to register online at National Forest Week. Your efforts will help the City with its goal of planting one million trees in Mississauga by 2032.
  • Participate in a tree giveaway on Wednesday, September 24 at Courtney Park Athletic Fields.

Who

All Mississauga residents interested in learning more about Mississauga’s urban forest.

When

September 20 to 27, 2025 at various times throughout the week.

Where

All events are in-person at various locations in Mississauga.

To learn more about National Forest Week or register for events, visit mississauga.ca/national-forest-week.

Forestry staff with large butterfly nets pictured in a greenspace.

Benefits of trees

As nature’s lungs, Mississauga’s trees and forests are breathing life into the city. Some trees provide much-needed shade, others act as ‘bridges and bustling roadways’ for wildlife. Some produce food like fruits, seeds, nuts and syrup for us to enjoy, and help with flood protection as they slow down the water flow. Learn more about trees and how they are enriching biodiversity.

Support the One Million Trees program

Trees are at the heart of the City’s efforts to combat climate change. The City aims to plant One Million Trees by 2032, and is well on its way to do so. So far, with the support of residents, businesses, schools, volunteers and partners, 602,539 trees have been planted. Help the City reach its tree goal by planting trees and shrubs on your residential property, specifically native plants and be sure to add it to the City’s one million tree goal.

Learn more about forestry at mississauga.ca/forestry.

Waste collection services will shift to Mississauga in 2027

By Announcement, Resources

City and Regional Councils approve October 1, 2027 as new transition date for waste collection services to better align with new waste collection contracts.

September 12, 2025

On September 10, 2025, Mississauga City Council approved October 1, 2027 as the new date to transition waste collection services from the Region of Peel to the City of Mississauga. Previously scheduled for January 1, 2026, this change aligns with the timing of the City’s new waste collection contract, ensuring a smooth transition and a service that’s tailored to Mississauga residents’ needs.

The recommendation was presented by the Transition Committee, made up of staff from the Region of Peel, City of Mississauga, City of Brampton and Town of Caledon. The recommendation was approved by the Town of Caledon on September 9, the City of Brampton on September 10, and Regional Council on September 11.

The transfer of waste collection responsibilities includes collection of waste, including garbage, organics and yard waste. The new transition date is aligned with the start of the City’s new waste collection contract. This will provide residents with a waste collection service that reflects and responds to Mississauga residents’ needs, aligns with the City’s existing programs and services, and creates more opportunities for efficiencies.

Next steps

City staff will present an implementation plan to Mississauga City Council in 2026 that will outline the transition in more detail.

Until October 1, 2027, waste collection in Mississauga will continue to be provided by the Region of Peel. Residents should continue to direct any questions or waste collection related concerns to the Region. For more details about waste collection, visit peelregion.ca/waste.

New provincial recycling program

Beginning January 1, 2026, the Region will no longer be responsible for collecting recycling in Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon.

In 2021, the Government of Ontario enacted the Blue Box Regulation that requires producers of recycling products and packaging to pay for and run recycling programs. Circular Materials, a national not-for-profit organization and the administrator of Ontario’s common collection system, will take over the operation of the Region’s recycling program on behalf of producers on January 1, 2026. The Region will continue to operate its six Community Recycling Centres.

Mississauga earns prestigious ‘AAA’ credit rating from Standard & Poor for the 22nd consecutive year

By Announcement

Report cites Mississauga’s strong financial management and growth

September 12, 2025

Standard & Poor Global Ratings (S&P), a leading provider of credit ratings, research, and risk analysis, has assigned the City of Mississauga an ‘AAA’ credit rating, the highest rating that can be received, and includes a stable outlook for the City’s future. This rating reflects the City’s strong financial management practices and effective budgeting processes, which are designed to ensure long-term fiscal sustainability in a growing economy.

What does this mean for residents

This rating reflects the City’s commitment to strategically reinvest property taxes and enhance the quality of life for residents. S&P expects the City’s strong tax base and prudent financial management will support healthy operational budget balances, and the liquidity position will stay robust. The report highlights Mississauga’s healthy reserves and the dedicated capital levy as an important source of funding. S&P believes Mississauga is well positioned to manage additional responsibilities such as the transfer of waste collection services and regional roads from Peel Region. S&P expects that Mississauga will continue to manage its budget such that expenditures are offset by strong revenue growth.

The report notes that despite national economic uncertainty, the City continues to see substantial investments, particularly in life sciences and technology. Capital spending is expected to increase in the next two years with the support of funds from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

S&P also points to Mississauga’s proximity to major markets, as well as its extensive transportation infrastructure— including Canada’s busiest airport, two national railways, and five of the country’s busiest highways which continue to aid its economy and attract investment.

The report highlighted the strength of Mississauga’s management team, which is highly qualified and experienced in implementing effective fiscal policies and responding to external risks. S&P’s report also acknowledged the City’s robust financial policies, clear and transparent financial disclosure, strong budgeting practices, which include annual updates to multi-year business plans and a detailed operating budget with a three-year outlook and a 10-year capital plan.

To learn more about the City of Mississauga’s finances, visit mississauga.ca/financereports.

About S&P Global Ratings

In 26 countries around the world and a history that dates back more than 150 years, S&P Global Ratings provides high-quality market intelligence in the form of credit ratings, research and thought leadership. An S&P Global Ratings issuer credit rating is a forward-looking opinion about an obligor’s overall creditworthiness. ‘AAA’ is the highest issuer credit rating assigned by S&P Global Ratings.

2021-2127: Closure of Dixie Road off-Ramp from QEW WB

By Construction, Ward 1

Councillor Dasko has received the following notice from GHD on behalf of the Ministry of Transportation related to the Dixie/QEW Interchange project:

Please be advised that the Dixie Road off-ramp from QEW Westbound will be closed from midnight September 20 until 5:00 AM September 22, 2025, weather permitting. Access to the North Service Road from Dixie Road will remain open throughout the closure.

This closure is required to safely complete the removal of curb and gutter, traffic control barriers (TCB), steel beam guide rail, and pavement construction on both the left and right shoulders near the gore area of the Dixie off-ramp.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to complete these improvements as quickly and efficiently as possible.

For any questions or additional information, please contact us at 905-247-8730 or email qewdixie@ghd.com.

Peel Region confirms first human case of West Nile virus

By Announcement

Residents are encouraged to continue taking precautions until first frost

BRAMPTON, Ont. – September 9, 2025. Peel Public Health has confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus for 2025 in a Mississauga resident.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. While most people who contract the disease will show no symptoms, some will experience mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, mild rash, and swollen lymph glands. In rare cases, West Nile virus can lead to severe illness. People 50 years and older and those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of developing serious complications.

West Nile virus activity varies from year to year and is influenced by rainfall and temperatures. Peel Public Health monitors mosquito populations across the region each summer and manages them by treating catch basins and surface water with environmentally friendly larvicides. Mosquitoes in Peel first tested positive for West Nile virus in mid-July this year, and the risk of exposure from mosquitoes is highest between July and September.

Residents are encouraged to protect themselves from mosquito bites by:

  • Applying an approved insect repellent containing an ingredient effective against mosquitoes, such as DEET or icaridin, to exposed skin and clothing. Read and follow the manufacturer’s directions for safe use. NOTE: Infants 6 months and younger should notuse an insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin. Instead, use a mosquito net when babies are outdoors in a crib or stroller.
  • Avoiding areas with large mosquito populations and taking extra precautions between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active, and at any time near shady, wooded areas.
  • Wearing light-coloured, tightly woven, loose-fitting clothing such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks to protect exposed skin.
  • Making sure all window and door screens fit securely and are free of tears and holes.
  • Ensuring that openings to rain barrels are always covered with a screen mesh.
  • Removing or draining items on your property that hold stagnant water. Water that is stagnant for more than 7 days is an ideal breeding site for mosquitoes. You can report stagnant water sites to Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 or online.
  • Registering online to receive email notifications and informationabout where mosquitoes have tested positive for West Nile virus in Peel.
  • Registering onlinefor treatment in 2026 if you have a backyard catch basin.

Notification of herbicide application for the control of invasive plants

By Events, Parks, Ward 1

This is to notify you of upcoming herbicide application to control Tree of Heaven; this work is scheduled to be completed between September 15th – October 6th.

Work locations within Ward 1 include:

  • Orchard Heights Park
  • Helen Molasy Memorial Park

Contractors working on behalf of the City, Brinkman Living Infrastructure Ltd., will apply VisionMax (Glyphosate) directly to the plants using a handheld/backpack sprayer to minimize impacts to plants in the surrounding area. Notification signs will be posted at all access points to the spray area at least 24 hours prior to treatment and will be removed no less than 48 hours after treatment. Treatment should be completed prior to October 6th, but the timelines may be extended as needed depending on weather conditions.

This work supports the City’s Invasive Species Management Program and improves the health of natural areas across the City.

The Park Supervisor and 311 have been notified of these operations.

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to reach out.

Shop local and discover Mississauga’s next innovators at Sourced in Sauga!

By Events

Discover and shop from IDEA Mississauga-supported businesses at Sourced in Sauga, a curated marketplace, on Saturday, September 20.

September 9, 2025

IDEA Mississauga, in partnership with Square One Shopping Centre, invites you to Sourced in Sauga, a one-day marketplace at Square One Shopping Centre bringing together local artisans, startups and community-driven entrepreneurs. Each of these businesses have been supported by one of many IDEA programs, giving guests an opportunity to see how IDEA-supported businesses are becoming thriving ventures.

Join us for a day of innovation and creativity, while connecting with passionate entrepreneurs in the city. It’s also a chance to get a head start on your seasonal shopping, with everything from clothing and treats to eco-friendly products, collectables and more. You can explore the full list of vendors here.

When

The Sourced in Sauga Market will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Where

Square One Shopping Centre’s central food court. No need to RSVP!

Cost

Attending the market is free! Businesses will have various curated items available for purchase.

For more details, visit IDEA Mississauga’s Sourced in Sauga event page.

Live events for the whole family to enjoy in Mississauga this fall

By Events

High-quality live entertainment close to home featuring music, theatre and sporting events.

September 8, 2025

Back to school, back to fun! Now that the kids are back in class, weekends can feel tricky to plan. Good news—saugaLIVE has you covered with high-quality live entertainment right in your own backyard.

Enjoy concerts, sports, movies and more with free event parking and budget-friendly tickets for the whole family.

This season is a special one, as the Harlem Globetrotters make a stop in Mississauga in the spring as part of their 100-year tour.

We’re also pleased to welcome some exciting additions to the season, including an appearance by Bollywood legend A.R. Rahman and The Sunshine Orchestra as part of the Promise of Music World Congress presented by The Glenn Gould Foundation.

Finally, Mississauga is bringing the excitement of TIFF a little closer to home through Reel Thursdays – a TIFF Film Circuit Group. The first three screenings of the series include The Wedding Banquet by Peter Ahn, We Lend a Hand by Colin Peter Field and Blue Moon by Richard Linklater.

Learn more about what’s in store this fall!

Living Arts Centre

  • Reel Thursdays: The Wedding Banquet – October 9. Get tickets
  • The Sunshine Orchestra with special guest A.R. Rahman – October. 9. Get tickets
  • Tom Morello: A Night of Stories and Music – October 19. Get tickets
  • An Evening of Folk with Kellie Loder and River North Duo – October 25. Get tickets
  • Emily Calandrelli, The Space Gal – November 13. Get tickets
  • Reel Thursdays: We Lend A Hand – The Forgotten Story Of Ontario Farmerettes – November 13. Get tickets
  • Shea Couleé featuring Lemon and The Virgo Queen – November 14. Get tickets
  • Digable Planets – November 20. Get tickets
  • Adaptive Concert: ASD Band in Collaboration with Xenia Concerts – November 30. Get tickets
  • STARS – December 4. Get tickets
  • Reel Thursdays: Blue Moon – December 11. Get tickets
  • The Nutcracker: A Canadian Tradition – December 15. Get tickets
  • Jann Arden Christmas Tour – December 16. Get tickets

Meadowvale Theatre

  • One Moe Time: A Tribute to Moe Koffman – October 5. Get tickets
  • Broadsway: The Most Wonderful Time…Maybe! – December 21. Get tickets

Paramount Fine Foods Centre

Please note: ticket details for the Raptors 905 2025-2026 will be shared soon. Stay tuned for more information.

Game dates:

  • Raptors 905 Home Opener vs. College Park Skyhawks – November 7
  • Raptors 905 vs. College Park Skyhawks – November 9
  • Raptors 905 vs. Maine Celtics – November 12
  • Raptors 905 vs. Capital City Go-Go – December 3
  • Raptors 905 vs. Delaware Blue Coats – December 10
  • Raptors 905 vs. Delaware Blue Coats – December 11
  • Raptors 905 vs. Maine Celtics – December 27
  • Raptors 905 vs. Maine Celtics – December 28
  • Raptors 905 vs. Westchester Knicks – December 30

Discover your next saugaLIVE experience close to home. For more information about upcoming events, visit the website. To request a media interview with one of the artists, please contact media@mississauga.ca

Write on! Mississauga’s Literary Festival returns on September 13

By Events, Resources

Discover author talks, panels, workshops, and activities for every reader and writer.

September 8, 2025

The annual Mississauga Literary Festival brings together readers, writers, and the community for a day filled with author talks, panels, workshops, local exhibitors, and interactive activities. There’s something for everyone, from children to adult readers and writers. This year’s programming is presented in partnership with The Ampersand Review, a literary magazine from Sheridan College’s Honours Bachelor of Creative Writing and Publishing program, which will also launch Issue No. 8 during the festival – a chapter you won’t want to skip!

People seated on chairs as a speaker engages them at the front of the room. They are sitting in a bright lime green painted room.

What

Mississauga Literary Festival

When

Saturday, September 13, 2025, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Where

Hazel McCallion Central Library (Floor 0-5)
301 Burnhamthorpe Rd. W.
Mississauga, ON

Cost

Free admission, no registration required

Event highlights

The Mississauga Literary Festival 2025 runs from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. across all levels (0-5) of the Hazel McCallion Central Library. Visitors can enjoy:

  • Author Talks and panels – including Mystery Mix Up: Who Dunnit and Why? with Bianca Marais, Hannah Mary McKinnon, and Uzma Jalaluddin, plus a Special Author Talk with Bee Quammie.
  • Workshops – topics include self-publishing, suspense writing, public speaking, poetry, and more, led by authors and industry professionals.
  • Storytime & family programming – children’s author spotlights and family storytime.
  • Interactive activities – book-themed crafts, drop-in gaming, and “Book Friending” sessions to connect readers.
  • Special launch – including The Ampersand Review Issue No. 8.
  • Exhibitor marketplace – meet over 60 local authors, publishers, and literary organizations throughout the library.

For the full festival schedule and exhibitor list, visit the Mississauga Literary Festival webpage.

Have your say on MiWay’s 2030 transit service plan

By Transit

Join MiWay staff at an information session to learn about Mississauga’s future transit network and provide your input.

September 8, 2025

The MiWay Five Plus Plan (2026-2035) is being developed to understand the growing demand for transit service in Mississauga, which will support future growth, improve connectivity and help deliver a faster and more efficient service. This plan will guide the future transit network, including new express routes and important connections to light rail service and other local routes.

As part of this plan, and following an extensive analysis and input from the community, MiWay has developed a proposed 2030 transit network.

Future transit network

MiWay is proposing the following updates:

  • Expansion of express route network with more express service throughout the week.
  • New connections to future higher order transit projects such as the Hazel McCallion Line LRT on Hurontario Street.
  • Enhanced and expanded connections to major transit hubs.
  • Improved service frequencies across the network throughout the week.

Residents can provide feedback on the proposed transit network in-person at any of the public information sessions listed below.

Public information sessions

Attend a drop-in session listed below to view information boards, ask questions and provide your feedback to MiWay staff.

Provide feedback online

Unable to attend a public information session? We still want to hear from you! Visit the MiVoice engagement platform to provide feedback by filling out a quick survey from September 22 to October 3.