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From roads and parks to recreation and bylaw enforcement, many of the decisions that shape our daily lives are made at the local level. In this episode of TOA Talks, host Devon Jarvis, Manager of Communications and Engagement for the Town of Ajax, breaks down why municipal elections matter and how your vote helps shape the future of our community. We cover the roles of mayor, councillors, and school board trustees, how Ajax Council is structured, and what's handled by the Town of Ajax versus the Region of Durham, the Province, and the federal government. Then Sarah Moore, legislative specialist and member of the Town's election team, joins Devin for a speed-round fact check on what municipalities can and can't do. For trusted election information, including voting details, candidate information, key dates, and election support, visit ajax.ca/vote. Have a question? Contact the Town of Ajax elections team at [email protected] or 365-282-VOTE (8683). Timestamps 0:00 Welcome to TOA Talks 0:24 Why municipal elections matter 0:44 What does a mayor do? 1:09 Strong mayor powers explained 1:16 The role of council 1:46 How Ajax Council is structured 2:05 School board trustees 2:40 French board trustees acclaimed for 2026 2:53 Town of Ajax vs. Region of Durham 3:14 What does a municipal government do? 3:40 Town of Ajax responsibilities 3:58 Region of Durham responsibilities 4:31 Provincial and federal responsibilities 4:53 Speed round fact check with Sarah Moore 6:23 Where to find election information 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

What does it take to deliver a municipal election? In this episode of TOA Talks, host Devon Jarvis, Manager of Communications and Engagement, sits down with Jaclyn, Municipal Clerk and Returning Officer, and Thomas, Deputy Clerk and Deputy Returning Officer, for a behind-the-scenes look at the 2026 Ajax Municipal Election. Planning starts about two years before Election Day. Jaclyn and Thomas explain what happens in that time, from council reports and choosing voting methods to security testing of the online and telephone voting system. They describe a typical day in election season and what October 26 will look like. They also take on the biggest myth about municipal elections: that your vote doesn't matter. You'll also learn what it means to be an informed voter, where to find reliable election information, and how to stay involved in local decision-making between elections. Election Day October 26, 2026. For trusted election information, including voting details, candidate information, key dates and voter support, visit https://www.ajax.ca/vote 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

Welcome to a new season of TOA Talks! This season, host Devon Jarvis, Manager of Communications and Engagement, is focusing on the 2026 Ajax Municipal and School Board Elections, with new episodes every week. We start with the basics. In this episode, you'll learn when and how to vote, who's on your ballot, how your vote is kept secure, how to check that you're on the voters list, and where to get in-person help. Voting runs October 19 - 26, 2026. Vote online with a smartphone, computer or tablet, or by telephone. It only takes a few minutes. Not sure which ward you live in? Use the "What's My Ward" interactive map at ajax.ca/vote. Voters cast ballots for mayor, regional councillor, local ward councillor and school board trustee, depending on your school support. Check that you're on the voters list before voting begins. Voter information letters with instructions on accessing the online and telephone voting system are arriving by mail. Didn't get yours? Contact the election team at 365-282-VOTE (8683) or [email protected]. Need help voting? Voter assistance centres will be open from October 22 to 26 at Ajax Community Centre, McLean Community Centre and Audley Recreation Centre. Election staff can walk you through the process and help with technology or accessibility needs. Coming up this season: the role of municipal council, Town vs. Region of Durham responsibilities, meet the election team, and how to get involved. For trusted election information, visit https://www.ajax.ca/vote 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

In this episode of TOA Talks 70 years of Ajax, we take a glimpse at Ajax’s future in conservations with Abigail Chiu, Youth Engagement Advisory Committee (YEAC) member and Patricia Bolger, an active participant in the Town’s 55+ Community. 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

In Episode 2 of Season 3 of TOA Talks: 70 Years of Ajax, we explore the make-up of Ajax today and what continues to attract residents to our growing community. This conversation highlights how multiculturalism enriches daily life in Ajax, while also addressing the real challenges related to racism and bias. Our guests share insights into the ongoing work being done to foster a more inclusive, equitable, and connected community for everyone who calls Ajax home. 🎙 Guests featured in this episode: • Marycarmen Lara Villanueva, PhD, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Advisor, Town of Ajax • Malcolm Barrington, Co-Chair, Ajax Anti-Racism Task Force • Parastou Saberi, PhD, Social Researcher, Community Development Council Durham (CDCD) 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

Season 3 of the Town of Ajax Podcast, TOA Talks: 70 Years of Ajax, is officially here. In Episode 1, we journey back to where it all began, exploring Ajax’s wartime origins, proud military legacy, and what everyday life looked like in the early 1950s, around the time the Town was incorporated. Throughout the season, TOA Talks will take you past, present, and future as we: Explore life in Ajax todayImagine what Ajax could look like in the years aheadShare stories, insights, and moments that have shaped our communityTune in and celebrate 70 years of Ajax, then, now, and what’s next. 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

This episode is a Live with Mayor Collier for a focus on the 2026 Capital & Operating Budgets.   Watch the full recording on the Town’s YouTube channel & ajax.ca/MTH To learn more & follow the budget process with us, visit: ajax.ca/2026Budget 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

In this episode of TOA Talks, host Devon Jarvis sits down with Regional Councillor and Deputy Mayor Sterling Lee for a lively and insightful discussion about Ajax’s authentic multiculturalism, the lessons he’s learned from MP Mark Holland, and the exciting future developments at Audley Recreation Centre. Sterling, self-proclaimed as "Trivia Thanos", shares his love for trivia nights in Ajax and how they bring the community together. They also dive into a fun yet meaningful conversation about staying true to yourself—whether that means rocking Jordans or dress shoes. Tune in for even more stories as they explore what makes Ajax a vibrant and evolving community! 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

In this episode of TOA Talks, host Sterling Lee welcomes Marilyn Crawford for an engaging and lively conversation. Marilyn shares her perspective on the differences between the public and private sectors, offering insights into their unique challenges and opportunities. She also discusses the common negative perceptions of politicians and how they impact public trust. Beyond her professional experiences, Marilyn opens up about a personal milestone—training for and running her first half marathon in her 40s. Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring conversation with Marilyn Crawford!🎙️ 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

In this episode of TOA Talks, host Sterling Lee welcomes Rob Tyler-Morin, Councillor for Ward 1, for an engaging and lively conversation. Rob dives into his passion for music, sharing stories about his band Two for the Show and reflecting on what he believes is the greatest band of all time. He also discusses his professional journey, offering insights into discovering the joy of learning throughout your career. Rob sheds light on important local topics like traffic calming and what makes Ajax—especially Pickering Village—such a special place to live. Plus, he gives us a behind-the-scenes look at a day in the life of a local councillor. Don’t miss this entertaining and insightful chat with Councillor Rob Tyler-Morin! 🎙️ 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

In the third episode of this season’s TOA Talks, host Sterling Lee welcomes Councillor for Ward 2, Nancy Henry, for a fun and insightful conversation. Nancy shares her journey into politics, revealing the pivotal moments that led her to join Ajax Council. She reflects on her experience during her first term, offering a behind-the-scenes look working for a local government. Plus, she counts down her top 3 standout moments. Don’t miss this opportunity to get to know your local Ajax Councillor! 🎙️ 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

In the second episode of this seasons TOA Talks, our host Sterling Lee sits down with Regional Councillor for Ward 3, Joanne Dies. Joanne dives into the importance of public art, her 21 year political journey from arts to advocacy, and her passion for green spaces and the environment. 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

In the latest season of TOA Talks, our host Sterling Lee sits down with Lisa Bower a Councillor for Ward 3 to discuss topics such as her unique approach to politics, journey on Ajax Council, overcoming cancer, childhood stardom, and inspiring change through service. 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

In the last episode of the first season of TOA Talks, host Devon Jarvis, the Supervisor of Communications & Engagement, talks with the Director of Corporate Services, Nicole Cooper. Since recording in November 2023, Nicole's title now also includes Deputy Chief Administrative Officer and the Town of Ajax Plow Map was launched and used by residents this past winter. In this last episode, Nicole talks about details on creative solutions to common issues that municipalities are facing, legislative changes and challenges – changes to planning regimes, customer service strategy (December 11, 2023), strong mayor powers, etc. and her love for working with the Town, while focusing on innovation.  Recording date: November 29, 2023 🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].

In this episode of TOA Talks, host, Devon Jarvis, the Supervisor of Communications & Engagement, talks with the Director of Planning & Development Services, Geoff Romanowski. Listen to this episode to learn more about the Planning & Development department and its layers of decision-making, the day-to-day as a Planner, the positives of intensification and its challenges for Planners, Geoff’s career path to Planning and what’s coming for 2024 and beyond and more!  🔔 Subscribe to the Town of Ajax to watch more videos: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax?sub_confirmation=1 🔎 Connect with the Town of Ajax for the latest news: https://www.ajax.ca/news ✍️ Visit the Town's new Public Engagement Platform: https://imo.ajax.ca/ 🎙 Town of Ajax Podcast: https://ajax.ca/TOATalks 🫶 Follow us TOA Live and Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@thetownofajax/streams TOA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TownOfAjax TOA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myajax/ TOA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townofajax/ Join us as we discuss the Town of Ajax. Throughout each season we will be sitting down with the amazing people who make up the Town, from TOA staff and Council Members, to community leaders and small business owners. Check back with us monthly to hear new episodes right here or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. For any questions about TOA Talks, please contact [email protected].