Resources

First human case of West Nile virus in 2026 confirmed in Peel region

By Announcement, Resources

First human case of West Nile virus in 2026 confirmed in Peel region

BRAMPTON, ON (September 2, 2026) – Peel Public Health has confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus in Peel region this year. It is a reminder for residents to take precautions against mosquito bites, even into the fall months.

West Nile virus is passed to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected with the virus do not develop symptoms. In some cases, symptoms may include fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting or skin rash. Rarely, the virus can cause serious illness, such as swelling of the brain or spinal cord.

Older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and those with certain chronic conditions are at higher risk for serious complications.

Peel Public Health identified the first mosquitoes positive for West Nile virus this season on July 27, 2026. Since then, the health unit has continued to monitor mosquito activity across Brampton, Mississauga and Caledon through its annual surveillance program.

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.

 

  • Avoiding areas with large mosquito populations and taking extra precautions between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active, and at any time in or near shady, wooded areas.

 

  • Wearing light-coloured, tightly woven, loose-fitting clothing such as long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, shoes, and socks to protect exposed skin.

 

  • Making sure all window and door screens fit securely and are free of tears and holes.

 

  • Keeping rain barrels tightly covered with screen mesh.

 

  • Removing or draining items on your property that collect standing water. Water that is stagnant for more than seven days is an ideal breeding site for mosquitoes. You can report stagnant water sites to Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 or online.

 

NOTE: Infants younger than 6 months old, should not use an insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin. Instead, use a mosquito net when babies are outdoors in a crib or stroller.

Residents can register online to receive email notifications and information about where mosquitos have tested positive for West Nile virus were found in Peel.

For more information about West Nile virus, visit our website or call Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, or toll-free at 1-888-919-7800.

Quotations

“The first human case of West Nile virus this year is an important reminder that infected mosquitoes remain active in our community. While the overall risk of getting a West Nile virus infection is lower during the fall months, this case reinforces the importance of residents protecting themselves against mosquito bites.”

Dr. Alexa Caturay, Medical Officer of Health, Peel Region

Branch out and explore nature at National Forest Week and fall events

By Events, Resources

Mississauga’s National Forest Week and fall events programming takes root September 19 to November 7.

Entertainment and activities | August 31, 2026

From trees, reptiles and more, Forestry Fall Festival is a family-friendly event with a lot to offer.

National Forest Week and fall events highlight the important role trees play in creating resilient communities.

Residents are invited to connect with nature, learn from forestry experts and discover the many benefits of Mississauga’s urban forest. From cleaner air and cooler neighbourhoods to enhanced biodiversity and community well-being, trees play an important role in keeping our city healthy and green.

More than just trees

Mississauga’s urban forest is a network of natural spaces that provide habitat for wildlife, improve air quality, reduce summer heat and create healthier neighbourhoods.

National Forest Week and fall events programming gets to the root of what makes the city green. Whether you’re planting a tree, discovering local wildlife on a guided walk or picking up a free tree for your yard, the events offer fun, educational and hands-on experiences for all ages.

What

Forestry Fall Festival: trees, reptiles and more

The second annual Forestry Fall Festival returns to Erindale Park with a day of family-friendly activities, packed with trees, treats, tractor-sized fun and community spirit.

There’s something for everyone at the festival. Enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, explore reptile and snake exhibits, plant a tree, and learn how Mississauga’s urban forest is cared for. Meet the forestry experts behind the work and get an up-close look at the specialized equipment they use to keep things growing and healthy.

Date: September 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Location: Erindale Park, 1685 Dundas St. W.

Cost: Free admission. No registration required.

Other event highlights

In addition to the Forestry Fall Festival, there are plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and connect with nature this fall:

Dig in and make a difference

Participate in tree planting events, including a Halloween-themed “Trick or Trees” event – a frightfully fun and forest-friendly way to do your part for the environment. Dates: September 19, October 3, October 17, October 24 and October 31.

Take the scenic route

Go on guided walks with Forestry staff to learn about local wildlife and native trees surrounding Mississauga’s local parks and trails. Dates: September 23, October 24 and November 7.

Bring home a free tree

Register for tree giveaways to add a touch of nature to your yard. Open to Mississauga residents only. Limited supplies. Dates: September 24, October 7 and October 14.

Lend a hand with a clean-up

Help keep local parks litter-free to protect wildlife and make our green spaces more welcoming for everyone. Date: October 17.

Who

Residents interested in learning about local trees and wildlife, gaining practical tree care knowledge or enjoying the outdoors. All events are designed for families, children and nature enthusiasts alike.

When

September 19 to November 7 – various dates and times throughout the week.

Where

Various parks and sites throughout Mississauga.

Registration

Registration is required for tree planting events, guided walks and tree giveaways. Space is limited. Visit mississauga.ca/national-forest-week for event dates and registration information.

Mississauga stands ready to defend local jobs and small and medium-sized businesses at risk from unfair tariffs

By Announcement, Resources

Staff are examining ways to support jobs while awaiting federal or provincial tariff relief.

Local government | August 25, 2026

Today, in light of unfair trade tariffs, Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish met with the President and CEO of the Mississauga Board of Trade David Wojcik, the City’s Acting Chief Administrative Officer, and the Director of Economic Development to map out ways the City can advocate for and support small and medium-sized businesses and jobs disrupted by uncertainty.The suspension of trade negotiations and escalation of US tariff policies against Canada present a significant and ongoing threat to Mississauga’s businesses and workers.

Mississauga’s economy is particularly vulnerable to US tariffs: 18 per cent of total employment – roughly 89,000 jobs – is tied directly to US exports. Key areas affected include automotive parts, machinery and electronics, plastics and rubber, furniture, and steel and aluminum products.

As a City, we are determined to stand up and defend these jobs and sectors. We are encouraged that the federal government today is rolling out rapid assistance to workers and businesses hit by this latest trade and economic turbulence.

These troubling trade developments imperil jobs and risk a spike in inflation. That is why we are exploring ways in which to help our local businesses.

Additionally, before today’s federal announcement, staff have already applied for $1.5 million in funding under the federal Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI). Securing this funding would help us deliver a trade mission acceleration program designed to help Mississauga’s small and medium-sized businesses diversify into non-US markets through export readiness training and trade missions.

It is clear that we must diversify our international trade partnerships. Mississauga has always been open to the world. That openness will facilitate an expansion of productive and solid international partnerships.

The City’s Partners in Trade roundtable will be consulted for further input from members on this critical, developing issue.

Arts and community organizations are invited to apply for Mississauga’s 2027 Community and Culture Grant Programs

By Announcement, Resources

Funding is available for organizations of all sizes; interested applicants are encouraged to attend a virtual information webinar.

City services | August 24, 2026

Not-for-profit organizations in Mississauga seeking financial support for the 2027 calendar year are encouraged to begin the application process for the City of Mississauga’s Culture and Community Grant Programs. Funding is available for organizations of all sizes, including small and grassroots groups that enhance and expand recreational opportunities, local events, arts programming, and other community initiatives in Mississauga.Organizations interested in applying to a grant program are encouraged to review the grant guidelines and attend one of the applicable virtual information webinars being held in September.

Not-for-profit community groups can apply for the following grants:

Arts and Culture Grant Program

Grant funding for this program supports emerging and established, not-for-profit, professional and community-based arts, culture and heritage organizations in Mississauga. This grant supports the development of exemplary arts, culture programs and services with the intent to improve participation, understanding and appreciation of arts, culture and heritage for residents of Mississauga.

Register for a virtual webinar:

Community Grant Program

This program provides annual and multi-year grants to Mississauga-based, not-for-profit community groups to deliver programs and services that keep Mississauga residents active, healthy and engaged in their communities. The program aligns with the strategic priorities of the Recreation and Parks, Forestry and Environment Divisions. Eligible community groups include sports organizations, groups focused on youth, older adults, outdoor recreation, adaptive and inclusive recreation, and more.

Register for a virtual webinar:

Cultural Festivals and Celebrations Grant Program

Cultural traditions and celebrations are important to Mississauga residents and visitors. This program issues funding to offset expenses associated with providing arts, heritage and cultural festivals/celebrations to Mississauga residents and visitors.

Register for a virtual webinar:

Culture Projects Grant Program

Themed Youth in Culture, this program provides funding to organizations, collectives and Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) that deliver arts and culture projects that are culturally-responses to the needs of youth. The grant prioritizes youth-led projects that create small-scale cultural experiences for youth that reflect the unique interests and lived experiences of these groups.

Register for a virtual webinar:

Small Projects Grant Program

This program provides grants to Mississauga-based, not-for-profit community groups to deliver small-scale projects, including active living and physical health programs, community-building activities, neighbourhood events, workshops and skill-building sessions, among others.

Register for a virtual webinar:

Interested groups are asked to submit their grant applications online by Friday, October 9, 2026 no later than 4:30 p.m.

For more information or to apply online, visit the grants portal.

Project 19-2215 June 2026 newsletter – Lakeshore trunk sewer and watermain

By Construction, Resources, Ward 1
Request accessible format

If you need this information in an accessible format, submit an accessible format request.

Peel Public Health issues heat warning for Peel region beginning June 30

By Announcement, Resources

Hot, humid temperatures are expected over Canada Day and through to the end of the week

BRAMPTON, Ont. – June 30, 2026. Peel Public Health has issued a heat warning for Peel region as hot temperatures and humidity begin June 30, lasting until Friday, July 3, and possibly into the weekend.

This warning comes as residents get ready to enjoy many outdoor events across the region this week, and Peel Public Health wants to remind everyone how to stay safe and avoid heat-related illnesses, including heat stress, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Peel’s Medical Officer of Health issues heat warnings when Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts that the following thresholds have been reached:

  • Daytime maximum temperatures are expected to reach 31 C or higher and overnight temperatures are 20 C or higher

OR

  • Humidex values are expected to reach 40 C or higher.

An extended heat warning will be issued if a heat warning lasts 3 or more days.

“With many residents planning to spend time outdoors celebrating Canada Day and enjoying summer activities, it’s important to remember that extreme heat can quickly become dangerous,” said Dr. Alexa Caturay, Medical Officer of Health for Peel Region. “Heat-related illnesses are preventable. We encourage everyone to drink water frequently, take breaks in cool or shaded areas, and check in on older adults, young children, neighbours, those with chronic illness and others who may be more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat.”

Health risks of hot temperatures

People at higher risk of experiencing heat-related illness include older adults, infants and young children, individuals with chronic illness, and people who work outdoors. Since it is still early in the summer, many people may not be adapted to the heat, so pay attention to how you and those around you are feeling.

Be aware of the following signs and symptoms of heat illness:

  • High body temperature
  • Skin rash
  • Muscle cramps
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Heavy sweating
  • Headache
  • Rapid breathing and heartbeat
  • Extreme thirst
  • Dark urine and decreased urination
  • Confusion and lack of coordination

If residents experience any of these symptoms during extreme heat, they should immediately move to a cooler place and drink water.

The following are signs and symptoms of heat stroke. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

  • High body temperature
  • Lack of coordination and confusion
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • No sweating, but very red, hot skin

Keeping cool in extreme heat

There are places across the region where residents can go to keep cool. See your local municipality’s website for information on how to respond to heat including cooling centres, splash pads, pools, libraries and community centres. Hours at these locations may vary on July 1, Canada Day.

Brampton

Mississauga

Caledon

Peel Region’s website has information on the status of public beaches in Peel. Stay cool when it’s hot outside with these tips:

  • Drink water regularly, even before you’re thirsty
  • Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat while outdoors
  • Avoid direct sun exposure
  • Plan any outdoor activities according to the weather conditions
  • Take a cool shower or apply a cool, wet towel to the back of your neck

Resources:

Drop-in and homeless support programs – peelregion.ca.

https://peelregion.ca/health/protecting-your-health/hot-weather-heat-warnings

https://weather.gc.ca/

https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/weather-health/uv-index-sun-safety.html

https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/weather-general-tools-resources/weathercan.html

Mississauga surpasses energy and emissions targets while advancing greener city operations

By Announcement, Resources

The City of Mississauga continues to make meaningful progress toward its 5 Year Energy Conservation Plan, surpassing its annual energy reduction targets while expanding investments in sustainable infrastructure and smart building technologies.

Business and innovation | June 30, 2026

Highlights from Mississauga’s 2025 Annual Energy Report show a 2.6 per cent reduction in overall energy use, exceeding the City’s annual target of one per cent, alongside a 3.5 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across its corporate buildings.

These results reflect ongoing efforts to modernize facilities, improve operational efficiency and transition to cleaner energy sources.

The City is steadily transitioning away from fossil fuels by integrating new technologies into both new and existing facilities. In 2025, this included:

  • Installation of heat pump systems, hybrid boilers and electrified water heating systems
  • Continued rollout of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and solar-ready infrastructure
  • Expansion of electric vehicle (EV) charging capacity, with more than 170 connections in place

Together, these actions support Mississauga’s commitment to reducing emissions, improving efficiency and building a more sustainable, resilient city.

Learn more about the City’s 2025 Annual Energy Report.