All Posts By

Stephen Dasko

Planning for retail that works for residents and businesses

By Announcement

City of Mississauga launches proactive strategy to keep neighbourhoods vibrant, retail diverse, and services accessible as the city grows toward one million residents.

February 11, 2026

The City of Mississauga has launched a new Retail Strategy to assist local shops, support businesses, and ensure growing neighbourhoods have access to everyday goods and services close to home, as the city moves toward nearly one million residents by 2051.

Mississauga’s $63 billion economy continues to grow, creating new opportunities to strengthen local retail and support business vitality. Without a clear plan, growth can unintentionally push retail out of neighbourhoods, leaving communities without the shops and services people rely on every day.

The Retail Strategy provides a proactive framework to protect existing retail, support local businesses, and ensure growth areas include the services residents need, while strengthening a retail sector that is vital to jobs and economic stability.

Why Mississauga needs a Retail Strategy now

The way people shop is changing. E-commerce, smaller store formats, and rising development costs are reshaping retail across the country, and Mississauga is no exception. While these changes create opportunities, they also introduce new challenges if left unmanaged.

To meet the needs of a growing population, Mississauga is expected to require approximately 5.4 million square feet of additional retail and service space by 2051, particularly in the downtown and other growth areas where most new residents will live. At the same time, current development trends show that some areas could lose retail space altogether unless deliberate action is taken.

The Retail Strategy responds directly to these pressures ensuring growth supports both housing and the retail spaces that make neighbourhoods complete.

What the Retail Strategy delivers

  • Assists existing retail to be more resilient
  • Supports new retail in growing neighbourhoods
  • Reduces barriers for small and independent businesses
  • Creates vibrant, people-focused main streets
  • Balances housing, jobs, and community needs

Supporting complete, walkable communities

The Retail Strategy aligns with the City’s vision for complete communities and informs Mississauga’s new Economic Development Strategy, Path to Prosperity 2030. By encouraging retail to be closer to where people live and work, it supports walkability, fosters and promotes vibrant communities, while strengthening local economic resilience.

To view Mississauga’s Retail Strategy, visit: www.investmississauga.ca/retail-strategy/

Ready, set, register! Spring programs and summer camp registration launches soon

By Announcement, Resources

Mississauga’s recreational and culture classes are always in high demand, so get ready to register soon.

February 11, 2026

Every four months, registration for Mississauga’s recreational and culture programs brings residents together to register for class, program, workshop or camp. Mississauga’s spring recreation and culture programs aren’t just activities on a schedule, they’re tools for improving health, boosting happiness, building connections, and helping residents of all ages live well. After a long winter indoors, people are craving opportunities to get active, reconnect with community, and try something new. The City’s programs offer exactly that, a way to invest in your well‑being, your family, or your creativity. Whether it’s staying healthy, learning a skill, meeting others, or supporting a child’s growth, these programs provide meaningful value far beyond the class itself.

Full view of children e sitting on the floor and doing a stretching exercise.

Registration details

With spring programs and summer camp registration opening soon, now is a great time to review programs. There are many programs that can help improve a child, adult or older adult’s mental and physical well-being or add a sense of enjoyment.

Residents can register for Mississauga’s spring recreational and cultural programs and summer camps on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

To help you plan, here are key dates for the upcoming spring 2026 registration period:

  • February 10 – Preview and bookmark programs on Active Mississauga
  • February 17 – Online & in-person resident registration begins at 7 a.m.
  • February 24 – Online & in-person non-resident registration begins at 7 a.m.
  • March 30 – Spring programs begin
  • June 29 – Summer camps begin

Remember to log into your Active Mississauga account and have your preferred payment method ready for registration (Visa or MasterCard). Note: If you register in-person at a community centre, you can pay by cash and with Debit card.For residents wanting to register for summer programs, registration will be later in May.

About City programs

Who

Individuals interested in recreation and culture programs at Mississauga facilities.

What

Registration for spring programs and summer camps.

Where

Various City-owned facilities in Mississauga like libraries, community centres and cultural facilities.

Why

Improving health, boosting happiness, building connections, and helping residents of all ages live well. After a long winter indoors, people are craving opportunities to get active, reconnect with community, and try something new.

When

March to June (spring sessions); June to August (summer camps).

Cost

Varies per programs or activity.

Programs for everyone

Mississauga’s instructors are highly qualified and passionate – when participating in a class or program, people can expect to learn something new, fun or simply enjoy some leisure time.

The City is committed to focusing on children’s healthy development by providing programs with the highest recognized level of quality and safety. The programs are HIGH FIVE® accredited, a global quality standard for recreation and sport developed by Parks and Recreation Ontario with the support and endorsement of the Government of Ontario. HIGH FIVE® is Canada’s quality standard for children’s recreation, culture, and sports programs.

For older adults (65+), the City offers a selection of programs and offerings that can be accessed through the popular 65+ Fit membership. The free membership launched last April and has encouraged many older adults to keep prioritizing their health and wellness.

Mississauga also offers Adapted Programs for people of all abilities. Each program is adapted to promote accessibility and enjoyment for participants. With inclusion in mind, participants can feel comfortable, safe and learn from dedicated instructors.

Unique spring programs

This upcoming spring season, registrants can look forward to some unique programs such as:

Aqua Yoga & Toning (ages 15+)

Looking to relax in the water and get a workout in? Aqua Yoga and Toning is a class that blends the benefits of aqua yoga combining the flow of various yoga postures and utilizes the power of water to strengthen your muscles, increase mobility and balance.

View this program

Children in Motion (ages 6 – 13)

Children with a learning, intellectual, or physical disability are encouraged to participate in

a program offered in partnership with Variety Village Ontario and ErinOak Kids. They will get a chance to join physical and social activities that grow and develop fitness, sport, and cooperation. This safe and supporting environment will support physical literacy, confidence, and participant successes.  Support persons are welcome in the program to assist participants if needed.

View this program

Jewellry Making Level 1 (ages 18+)

Feeling creative and hands-on? Participants can use brass and copper to create their own jewellry. Try metalsmithing techniques like saw-piercing and soldering. Materials for the first project are provided and other materials are extra. Additional materials will be discussed in the first class.

View this program

Musical Theatre (ages 7 – 10 and 11 – 16)

Explore the world of musical theatre! Participants can focus on developing singing skills while learning about characterization, movement and audition techniques in a supportive environment. This program can help develop confidence while harmonizing with the ensemble or singing a solo from famous musicals. A showcase for friends and family will take place on the last day of class.

View this program

Get ready for summer, in the spring! Learn how to swim

It’s never too late to take swimming lessons or conquer any fear of pools and water. As everyone looks forward to the warmer months, the City encourages residents to register for swimming lessons and aquatics programs ahead of summer season. If you have never been to a pool before or just want to improve your skills, look no further than Mississauga’s Aquatics programs.

Swimming is a great exercise and can help with managing pain. It is also an important life-saving skill. Swimming is also great option for a low-impact, full-body workout that strengthens muscles, enhances cardiovascular health and boosts endurance. For some people, being in the water can also be therapeutic and can aid in recovery.

Virtual fitness programs

Explore virtual fitness programs to stay active and engaged from home. These programs offer flexible, at‑home workouts designed to keep you active, motivated, and connected, wherever you are.

Virtual fitness membership now available

This membership gives you unlimited access to a variety of new online fitness classes. Let us help you to keep moving from the comfort of your home. Visit our memberships page for more details.

More information

Have questions about Active Mississauga? Check out these FAQs.

You can also email active@mississauga.ca.

To learn more, visit mississauga.ca/recreation.

Notice of Bus Stop Impact: #0709 – NB Hurontario St at South Service Rd | Thursday February 12, 2026

By Transit, Ward 1

Please be advised of the following stop impacts. See the related details below:

 

Stop(s) Impacted:  No. 0709 – NB Hurontario St at Pinetree Way

Temporary Stop Location: Patrons are being directed to a temporary stop approximately 100m south

Routes Impacted: 2 North

Date and Time: Thursday February 12, 2026 at 9AM

Estimated Duration: Until, Friday February 20, 2026 at 5PM

Event Type: HuLRT

Agency: Mobilinx

Notes:

–             No detours required.

Meet your favourite authors and plot your 2026 reading list at Mississauga Library

By Events

Register now for Author Talks to meet acclaimed authors and add new books to your 2026 reading list at Mississauga Library this season.

February 10, 2026

Mississauga Library is kicking off this year’s Author Talks series with a fantastic lineup of writers. Meet the authors and dive into a thought-provoking coming-of-age story or sink your teeth into a bestselling crime series with an unlikely heroine.

Author Talks invites readers to go beyond the pages of their favourite stories. The Mississauga Library brings opportunities like these to help residents engage with the ideas and inspirations behind the book through conversations with the authors themselves. Whether you’re already a fan or looking for your next great read, this is your opportunity to ask burning questions and remain a lifelong reader.

Talks will be held virtual only in February and in-person in March. This program is free to attend, and you must register in advance to reserve your spot.

 

Antonio Michael Downing

Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Time: 7 – 8 p.m.

Location: Virtual only

Register now

Antonio Michael Downing is the current host of the CBC Radio program “The Next Chapter.” He is the author of the acclaimed memoir “Saga Boy” and children’s book “Stars in My Crown.” His debut novel “Black Cherokee” is a courageous coming-of-age story about a mixed-race black girl fighting for recognition in a South Carolina Cherokee community, told with dazzling language, keen insight, and an unforgettable voice. Check out his books available at the library.

an image of the front cover of "Black Cherokee" by author Antonio Michael Downing. The cover is black and has a stylized image outline of a young woman with a prominent yellow earring.

Nita Prose

Date: Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Time: 7 – 8 p.m.

Location: Noel Ryan Auditorium, Hazel McCallion Central Library, 301 Burnhamthorpe Rd W, Mississauga

Register now

Nita Prose is the number one bestselling author of the “Maid” series, a crime thriller that has sold millions of copies worldwide. Her series has captured the minds of readers worldwide and won the Ned Kelly Award for International Crime Fiction, the Fingerprint Award for Debut Novel of the Year, the Anthony Award for Best First Novel and the Barry Award for Best First Mystery. Capacity is limited for in-person talks so make sure to register early to save your spot. Check out the series at the library.

An image of the front cover for "The Maid's Secret", a novel by author Nita Prose. The cover is yellow with a stylized image of a woman holding a book with a lock on the front.

Take a look at highlights from previous Author Talks at the Mississauga Library’s official playlist.

More information

The book may end, but the experience continues. Mississauga Library amplifies diverse Canadian voices and stories through a wide selection of books and media to explore. Discover your next read by signing up for the Book Buzz e-newsletter, or visit your nearest library location to ask staff for their recommendations.

Mississauga Library brings residents together through events and activities year-round that inspire learning and foster a lifelong love of reading. Explore everything your library has to offer at Mississaugalibrary.ca.

Announcing MiWay February 23 Service Changes

By Transit

MiWay is introducing significant service improvements along Dundas Street to better align with customer demand and evolving ridership patterns on one of Mississauga’s busiest transit corridors.

February 13, 2026

Starting Monday, February 23, MiWay is implementing major changes to service along Dundas Street, affecting connections at Kipling Bus Terminal, University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) and South Common Centre. Schedules will be adjusted to increase frequency on all routes serving Dundas Street. These enhancements and realignments will improve travel options and strengthen connections to surrounding communities, including Meadowvale, Erin Mills and UTM.

Simplified and more frequent service along Dundas Street

To simplify the network and provide more consistent service, routes operating on Dundas Street will be revised.

  • Route 1 Dundas: Will operate between Kipling Bus Terminal to Laird Road and Ridgeway Drive via UTM. Service frequency will increase during core weekday and weekend hours.
  • Route 101 Dundas Express: Will operate between Kipling Bus Terminal and Laird Road and Ridgeway Drive via UTM. Service frequency will increase during core weekday hours and on Saturdays.
  • Service to South Common Centre: Service via Route 1C Dundas and Route 101 Dundas Express will be discontinued. Customers traveling to South Common Centre can transfer at UTM to either Route 110/110A University Express or the newly extended Route 48 Erin Mills, which will also serve UTM.

Route 48 Erin Mills extended to serve UTM

Route 48 Erin Mills will be extended from South Common Centre to serve UTM. Service frequency will increase during weekday rush hours and midday, as well as on weekends. Passengers can board Route 48 Erin Mills at UTM at bus stop #4800. This extension provides an additional travel option for customers heading to South Common Centre.

Route 26 Burnhamthorpe: Routing changes at South Common Centre

The routing for Route 26 Burnhamthorpe at and around South Common Centre will be revised. Route 26 Burnhamthorpe will now enter South Common Centre via South Millway and The Collegeway and exit the terminal via Burnhamthorpe Road. Passengers can board Route 26 Burnhamthorpe at South Common Centre at Platform A (stop #1099).

Service improvements

Due to increased customer demand, the following routes will have improved service.

  • Improved service on weekdays: 11 Westwood, 28 Confederation and 109 Meadowvale Express.
  • Improved service on weekends: 3 Bloor, 11 Westwood and 109 Meadowvale Express.
  • More trips on weekends: 5 Dixie, 7 Airport, 42 Derry and 103 Hurontario Express.

Schedule adjustments

Schedule adjustments will be made on the routes below to improve service reliability as traffic and ridership patterns continue to evolve throughout the city.

  • 1 Dundas (weekdays, Saturdays and Sundays)
  • 3 Bloor (Saturdays and Sundays)
  • 11 Westwood (weekdays, Saturdays and Sundays)
  • 15 Drew (weekdays)
  • 16/16A Malton (weekdays, Saturdays and Sundays)
  • 22 Finch (weekdays, Saturdays and Sundays)
  • 24 Northwest (weekdays)
  • 28 Confederation (weekdays, Saturdays and Sundays)
  • 30 Rexdale (weekdays and Saturdays)
  • 38 Creditview (weekdays)
  • 39 Britannia (Saturdays and Sundays)
  • 61 Mavis (weekdays and Sundays)
  • 66 McLaughlin (weekdays and Sundays)
  • 101 Dundas Express (weekdays, Saturdays and Sundays)
  • 108 Financial Express (weekdays)
  • 109 Meadowvale Express (weekdays, Saturdays and Sundays)

Visit miway.ca for full details and to plan your trip.

Do you need assistance with planning your trip on MiWay? Please contact Customer Service at 905-615-4636.

Due to increased customer demand and to address overcrowding, the following routes will have more frequent service.

Improved service on weekdays:

  • 11 Westwood: from 13 minutes to 11 minutes between 6 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and from 20 minutes to 15 minutes between 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • 28 Confederation: from 30 minutes to 20-24 minutes between 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • 109 Meadowvale Express: from up to 20 minutes to 15 minutes between 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Improved service on weekends:

  • 3 Bloor: from 28 minutes to 20-24 minutes all day on Saturdays and Sundays.
  • 11 Westwood: from 26 minutes to 18 minutes between 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. on Saturdays and between 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Sundays.
  • 109 Meadowvale Express: from 20 minutes to 18 minutes between 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.

More trips on weekends:

  • 5 Dixie: an additional northbound and southbound trip will be added to extend service later on Sundays.
  • 7 Airport: an additional northbound trip will be added to extend service earlier on Saturdays. An additional northbound and southbound trip will be added to extend service later on Saturdays. An additional northbound trip will be added to extend service later on Sundays.
  • 42 Derry: an additional eastbound trip will be added to extend service later on Sundays.
  • 103 Hurontario Express: an additional southbound trip will be added to extend service earlier on Sundays.

Know of an outstanding resident in Mississauga? Nominations are open for the Citizen of the Year Award

By Announcement

The Citizen of the Year Award recognizes one Mississauga resident annually who has given unselfishly to their community.

February 6, 2026

From now until March 29, nominations are being accepted for the Gordon S. Shipp Memorial Award for Citizen of the Year. The award commemorates Shipp’s legacy of dedication and service to the community. Named in memory of Gordon S. Shipp, who was a local custom home builder and Chairman of the Board of Shipp Corporation Ltd., the award commemorates Shipp’s legacy of dedication and service to the community.

This award was previously presented by Cornerstone Association of REALTORS® and the former Mississauga Real Estate Board. The City of Mississauga has assumed responsibility of the award, which will be presented as part of the City’s 2026 annual Civic Recognition evening.

Mississauga residents eligible for this award are those who have unselfishly given their time and energy to make a positive difference in the community and make life better for citizens. The recipients are those who have shown outstanding leadership, community service and philanthropic efforts. They are known for their positive attitude and ability to inspire others through unmatched teamwork and commitment.

Nomination process

  1. Visit the Civic Recognition webpage
  2. Review the awards criteria
  3. Email civicrecognition.program@mississauga.ca with a description of the nominee’s achievements

The volunteer selection committee made up of one citizen member from each Ward in the City, a member from the Shipp family and Cornerstone Association of REALTORS®, will review and put forward a recommendation in April that will be shared with Members of Mississauga City Council for their final approval.

The recipient of the Citizen of the Year Award will be invited to receive their award during an evening ceremony at Mississauga City Hall later this year.

For more information, visit the webpage.

Background

As approved by Council in August 2025, the City of Mississauga is now responsible for the Gordon S. Shipp Memorial Award for Citizen of the Year. The award was last presented in May 2025 by Cornerstone Association of REALTORS® and will be presented in 2026 as part of the City’s annual Civic Recognition evening this fall.

Gordon S. Shipp Memorial Award for Citizen of the Year, named in memory of Gordon S. Shipp, commemorates his legacy of dedication and service to the community. It recognizes a resident of Mississauga who has given unselfishly of their time and energy, for the betterment of the community and its citizens. Recipients are celebrated for his or her outstanding leadership, community service, and philanthropic efforts and are known for their positive attitude and ability to inspire others through co-operation and dedication.

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Planning and Development Committee Public Meeting – 893 Seventh Street

By Planning & Development, Ward 1

PUBLIC MEETING RESCHEDULED
REVISED DATE: Monday, March 9, 2026
(Previously Tuesday, February 17, 2026)

Please be informed of a proposed development in your neighbourhood

893 Seventh Street
Location: East of Cawthra Road, north of Atwater Avenue
Applicant’s Proposal: To change the development standards of the lands to permit two
semi-detached dwelling units
Application submitted by: Biocca Homes Inc.
File: OZ 25/20 W1


In Person and Virtual Public Meeting

Revised Meeting Date and Time:
Monday, March 9, 2026 at 1:30 p.m.

Meeting Place:
Mississauga Civic Centre, Council Chamber, 300 City Centre Drive
The applicant is proposing to change the zoning to permit two semi-detached dwelling units with site specific zoning provisions.

Meeting Details:
This meeting will be held in person and online. Advance registration is required to make a verbal submission at the meeting either virtually or in person Friday at 12:00 p.m. prior to the meeting date. The proceedings will be streamed live online for the public to view at the following link: http://www.mississauga.ca/portal/cityhall/council-and-committee-videos. If you wish to phone in to listen to the meeting only, please call 905-615 3200, ext. 8437 for instructions.

Options for participating in the meeting are outlined below.
Purpose of Meeting:
 For people to ask questions and share their views about the proposal
 For Planning and Development Committee to receive a report that provides information on the project, addresses issues and provides a recommendation on the proposal
 For Planning and Development Committee to make a decision about this project
The report will be available on-line one week prior to the meeting at: http://www.mississauga.ca/portal/cityhall/planninganddevelopment

For detailed information contact:
City Planner David Breveglieri at 905-615-3200 ext. 5551 or
david.breveglieri@mississauga.ca

If you would like to share your views and/or be added to the official record, please contact the Planning and Building Department by Friday at 12:00 p.m. prior to the meeting date:
 by mail to 300 City Centre Drive, Development and Design Division, Mississauga ON L5B 3C1
 by email to application.info@mississauga.ca
 by visiting the following link: https://www.mississauga.ca/services-andprograms/planning-and-development/development-applications/active-developmentapplications/893-seventh-street-oz-25-20-w1/
Please include your name, your address, and application number or address of the property you are providing comments on.

Written Comments:
In order to be received by Committee at the public meeting, written comments must be received no later than Friday at 12:00 p.m. prior to the meeting date. Submissions are accepted by email at deputations.presentations@mississauga.ca or by mailing the Planning and Development Committee, City Clerks Office, 300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga, ON L5B 3C1. Please include your name, your address, and application number or address of the property you are providing comments on. Written comments received before, during or after a public meeting but before a by-law is passed receive the same consideration as verbal comments made during a public meeting.

If you wish to be notified of the decision on the proposed zoning by-law amendment and/or proposed official plan amendment, you must make a written request.

How to participate in a public meeting if you wish to make verbal submissions:

Participate Virtually
Advance registration is required to participate and/or make comment virtually at the public meeting. Please email deputations.presentations@mississauga.ca no later than Friday at 12:00 p.m. prior to the meeting date. Any materials you wish to show the Committee during your presentation must be provided as an attachment to the email. Links to cloud services will not be accepted. You will be provided with directions on how to participate from Clerks’ staff.

Residents without access to the internet can participate and/or make comment in the meeting via telephone. To register, please call Ani Grigoryan at 905-615-3200 ext. 8437 no later than Friday at 12:00 p.m. prior to the meeting date. You must provide your name, address, phone number, and application number if you wish to speak to the Committee. You will be provided with directions on how to participate from Clerks’ staff.

Participate In Person
To make a verbal submission in person, advance registration is preferred. Please email deputations.presentations@mississauga.ca no later than Friday at 12:00 p.m. prior to the meeting date.

If you are a landlord, please post a copy of this notice where your tenants can see it.
We want to make sure they have a chance to participate.

Background Studies:
Planning documents and background material submitted in support of this application are available for review at: https://www.mississauga.ca/services-and-programs/planning-anddevelopment/development-applications/active-development-applications/893seventh-street-oz-25-20-w1/.

Contact the city planner noted above for more information.

Planning Act Requirements:
The City will be processing the applications in accordance with the Provincial Planning Act which requires that all complete applications be processed.

The application is now being circulated to City Departments and Agencies for technical review.

A report summarizing the development and the comments received will be prepared by Planning staff and presented at the Public Meeting listed in this Notice.

Personal Information:
Individuals should be aware that any personal information in their verbal or written communication will become part of the public record, unless the individual expressly requests the City to remove the personal information. Questions about the collection of this information may be directed to
application.info@mississauga.ca or in writing to the Planning and Building Department at 300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga ON L5B 3C1.

Information about Appeals:
Application decisions can be appealed through the Ontario Land Tribunal. The applicant, a specified person, a public body, or the Minister, or those who own land subject to the application can appeal. A person who otherwise would have an ability to appeal but the person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the City of Mississauga before the proposed zoning by-law is passed and the proposed official plan amendment is adopted is not entitled to appeal the decision and may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Land Tribunal.

General Information:
Visit Mississauga’s online Guide to City Planning and Development to learn more. It’s organized around topics we get asked most – such as What is City Planning, How Land Gets Developed and Ways to Get Involved. Visit www.mississauga.ca/city-planning-guide.

Revised Date of Notice: February 4, 2026

Notification from the Ministry of Transportation: Full Closure of Harvest Drive at North Service Road

By Construction, Ward 1

Councillor Dasko has received this notification on Tuesday February 3rd:

Please be advised that Harvest Drive at North Service Road is scheduled to be closed from Thursday, February 5, 2026, until Sunday, April 5, 2026, for an approximate duration of eight weeks, weather permitting. Traffic on North Service Road will remain open; however, at the Harvest Drive intersection, traffic will be maintained bidirectionally using temporary traffic signals.

The contractor has notified homeowners on Harvest Drive regarding the planned closure.

This closure is necessary to safely facilitate the following construction activities:

  • Temporary Culvert Bypass
  • Removal of existing culvert & storm
  • New culvert and storm sewer installation (approx. 2 metres deep)
  • Grading and placement of asphalt
  • Electrical lighting
  • Other associated works

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we continue to make every effort to complete the work as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at

  1. T: 905-247-8730 or
  2. Email: qewdixie@ghd.com and,
  3. Email: Amico Infrastructure – QEW-Dixie@amico.build