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Economic Development in KING Website NEW Getting Down to Business in KING Guide A GUIDE TO STARTING OR EXPANDING YOUR BUSINESS IN KING JANUARY 2017 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 4, 2020 King cancels in-person summer camp program Modified camp experiences in the works King Township has made the difficult decision that—given the current and uncertain health climate related to COVID 19—offering a traditional, in-person camp experience for children and youth will not be a safe or feasible option this summer. “Summer camps in King Township have been a pillar in our community for over two decades. Last year, King Township welcomed close to 3,000 children in our summer camp programs,” said Mayor Steve Pellegrini. “We have weighed all of our options, and we simply cannot allow children to congregate together in the same place without putting the health and safety of our participants and staff at risk. This truly was a difficult decision, but it was the right decision.” Township staff will be contacting each of the families who have registered for this year’s summer camp program and full refunds will be processed over the next few weeks. A Modified Summer Camp Experience As an alternative to King’s traditional summer camps offerings, there will be two new options for children to participate in this summer. Option #1 – King’s “Summer Camp in a Box” Program The Township will be offering a summer camp alternative to bring camp home this summer with King Township’s Camp in a Box program. This program is designed to keep kids learning and engaged with small interactive activities and crafts. Each box will be put together with all required supplies and easyto-follow instructions to help recreate several fun camp activities. The boxes will be available for curbside pickup at several municipal facilities around the Township. Quantities will be limited and preference will be given to residents of King Township. Option #2 – Virtual Summer Camps The Township will work together with several service providers to offer a wide range of virtual summer camps programming options. Topics and themes of these virtual camps will vary and specialty camps will be available to suit the individual interest of each camper. Registration details for both King’s Summer Camp in a Box Program and Virtual Summer Camp programming options will be published later this month. Media contact | Jason Ballantyne, Communications Officer | Phone: 416-559-5093 | E-mail: jballantyne@king.ca |
 MEDIA RELEASE June 1, 2020 King joins Digital Main Street’s ShopHERE to support local businesses Program offers King businesses opportunity to sell online |
To help support our local small businesses, today King Township is joining the ShopHERE powered by Google program, with a goal of helping local businesses sell online this year. ShopHERE, powered by Google, which started in the City of Toronto, helps independent businesses and artists build a digital presence and minimize the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In May, Google Canada announced a $1 million investment to enable Digital Main Street to expand the program to municipalities across the country, offering more businesses and artists the opportunity to build their own online store. Because the opportunities afforded by the digital economy are still limited if people don’t have the right skills, Google’s investment will also help more small businesses and artists receive the digital skills training needed to participate in the digital economy. The program is now available to small businesses in King Township. Local businesses and artists can apply for the program at www.economicking.ca/shophere/ to get their online store built at no-cost. “Ever since the pandemic started, we’ve been communicating with and advocating for ways to help our local businesses navigate through the uncertainty,” said King Township Mayor Steve Pellegrini. “We’re pleased that Google Canada has launched a service that helps them do just that. Adding one more business support tool to the toolkit is a great thing for our local businesses. Economic Development staff will be reaching out to businesses to make them aware of and encourage them to apply.” “Since Google began its business in Canada nearly 20 years ago, we’ve been focused on helping Canadian businesses of all sizes to unlock the prosperity of the internet,” says Sabrina Geremia, VP and Country Manager, Google Canada. “We remain optimistic and more determined than ever that technology is the toolkit for a world of opportunities. Our one million dollar investment will go towards expanding the ShopHERE program nationally, so we can help small businesses across Canada navigate the challenges ahead.” | About Google Canada Google Canada has offices in Waterloo, Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa with over 1,500 Canadian Google employees working on teams across Engineering, AI Research, Sales and Marketing. About Digital Main Street Digital Main Street is a program that helps main street businesses achieve digital transformation. The program is built around an online learning platform, structured training programs, and our Digital Service Squad, a team of street-level team members who help main street businesses grow and manage their operations through technology. Digital Main Street was created by the Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas (TABIA) with direct support from the City of Toronto. DMS is also supported by a group of strategic business partners, including Google, MasterCard, Microsoft and Shopify. About ShopHERE powered by Google The ShopHERE program offers businesses and artists the opportunity to build a digital presence and minimize the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. ShopHERE is supported by a number of community and corporate partners, including Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas, Shopify, Google, Mastercard, Microsoft, Magnet, and The Schulich School of Business - York University. Media contact | Jason Ballantyne, Communications Officer | Phone: 416-559-5093 | E-mail: jballantyne@king.ca |
King’s Economic Development staff are here to help businesses |
A shift towards establishing a formal King Business Concierge program is unfolding during this unprecedented crisis. King’s economic development staff have connected virtually with more than 500 business stakeholders since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared on March 12. Staff have been proactively reaching out to businesses and responding to questions about what kinds of supports and resources are available to help them weather the economic uncertainty caused by this crisis. Within a week of the pandemic being declared King’s Economic Development Office developed a business resource portal to help business owners navigate the various assistance programs available to them, accessible at www.economicking.ca/covid-19. As a result of this new portal, traffic to the website increased to more than 4,200 visitors in both March and April, almost doubling the number of visits in February. King Township is a proud partner in the Northern York Region (N6) COVID-19 Business Recovery Information Centre. The Northern Six (N6) municipalities of York Region (Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Newmarket and Stouffville) and the York Region Economic Strategy Office are working together to assist local businesses through this crisis. As a result, an intake form has been developed and businesses are encouraged to submit their information at bit.ly/businessrecovery. The N6 municipalities will be using the responses and aggregated data to develop appropriate measures and actions to support and assist businesses to adjust and adapt. A ShopKING portal was also quickly launched on March 19, to promote essential businesses that were connecting safely with customers through physical distancing purchasing options, accessible at www.economicking.ca/physical-distance-shopking. “We’re seeing some encouraging news out of this quick action,” said Mayor Pellegrini. “On their own, and with our help to get the word out, 60 per cent of King’s restaurants managed to quickly pivot to provide take-out and delivery options, while adhering to physical distancing orders put in place by the Province.” | “As the province takes a measured and staged approach to fully re-open for business, the Township will be there to provide guidance and support for our businesses and local economy to be more resilient and stronger than ever,” said Mayor Pellegrini. To help the Township identify concerns and challenges, and to assist with developing a plan moving forward, Mayor Pellegrini will be hosting a Virtual Business Roundtable. The Roundtable will include a cross-section of local business leaders, King Chamber of Commerce members, and elected officials from other levels of government. Hon. Deb Schulte (MP, King-Vaughan), Hon. Stephen Lecce (MPP, King-Vaughan) and Hon. Prabmeet Singh Sarkaria (MPP, Brampton South) will be participating in the roundtable. In the months to come, council, staff and local businesses will continue to work together, including as participants on the York Region Business Recovery Support Partnership initiative. This collaboration, led by York Region’s Economic Strategy Division, with local business and economy stakeholders are joining forces to coordinate a regional response to COVID-19. The goals of the partnership include economic impact assessment, streamlined business advisory support and business community communications. “While all levels of government have taken swift and unprecedented actions and measures to support local businesses adapt and recover, we collectively are always looking and listening for ways to do more,” said Mayor Pellegrini. Attachments: King Support Measures Info-Graphic (2 pages) Media contact | Jason Ballantyne, Communications Officer | Phone: 416-559-5093 | E-mail: jballantyne@king.ca |
King ensuring citizens and businesses stay informed about COVID-19 relief measures from every level of government |
As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds, new relief measures for individuals and businesses are being announced daily. Details regarding the Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidy were recently announced by the Federal Government. Businesses, non-profits and charities eligible for the wage subsidy include those who have experienced at least a 30% decrease in revenue as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Iit is important to note that the number of employees they have does not factor into their eligibility. The Federal Government will cover 75% of the first $58,700 of an employee’s wage, up to $847 per week, which will be back-dated to March 15th, 2020. The King Chamber of Commerce has been vocal about the need for an Emergency Agreement for all levels of government to streamline financial assistance and support programs to all small, medium and large businesses. To follow the Chamber’s position on COVID-19 and its support and resources, visit: King Chamber of Commerce Covid-19 Response. “At a time like this, we have to all work together and support one another. I am pleased to see how our Federal and Provincial Governments are supporting Canadians. These programs need to be nimble and responsive and we are confident the financial relief and assistance will flow very quickly,” said Mayor Steve Pellegrini. “With the Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidy in place, I hope to see our businesses that have the means to do so top up the remaining 25% of their employee’s wages and hire back those workers who were laid off”. |
The Provincial Government has announced updated guidance to help employers better understand their responsibilities and what is needed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 on the job site. The update addresses sector topics including on-site sanitation, best practices in communicating roles, responsibilities, and health & safety policies, and techniques to enable greater distances between workers.
“I am sending out regular updates through social media on the pandemic, and residents can also find a central hub of information on king.ca. This information is updated daily – sometimes hourly – as more and more programs are announced,” said Mayor Steve Pellegrini. King Township has created a hub for local businesses to access crisis resources. This hub includes government relief programs, links to the six big bank financial relief measures, and even a list of free webinars to help businesses adapt to doing business during these challenging times. “Right now, one of the greatest things King residents can do is support their local businesses by shopping local while physical distancing,” said Mayor Pellegrini. “Many of our local shops have rapidly changed their business model to serve our community. Every resident should visit the ShopKING banner link on King.ca to see what exceptional products are available, right here in King.” Media contact Jason Ballantyne, Communications Officer Phone: 416-559-5093 E-mail: jballantyne@king.ca |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 17, 2020 King continues taking action to keep people safe The following statement was issued by King Township Mayor Steve Pellegrini: King Township supports the Ontario government’s declaration of an emergency and the subsequent closure of private schools, churches and faith-based settings, licensed childcare centres and bars and restaurants – except for those that can offer takeout or delivery. Our top priority is the health and safety of our citizens, staff and businesses. Our Council and staff are working closely with all levels of government to monitor the situation and take actions to protect our citizens, staff and businesses. These include:
Our core services will continue. These include Fire and Emergency Services, water and wastewater, waste collection and roads. Many non-essential services are reduced or suspended. Citizens can still do business with King on our website at http://www.king.ca, by phone at 905-833- 5321 or by email at serviceking@king.ca. We’re asking citizens to protect themselves and their loved ones from catching or spreading the virus in the following ways:
“I know this is a stressful time. I want King Township’s citizens to know that we are doing everything we can to stop the spread of the virus while maintaining our core services. King Township is a community of communities and I know we will help each other get through this global pandemic.” For more information about the Township’s COVID-19 response, please visit king.ca. -Media contact Jason Ballantyne, Communications Officer Phone: 416-559-5093 E-mail: jballantyne@king.ca |
King closing facilities, cancelling programs due to COVID-19 pandemic Essential services like Fire and Emergency services and waste collection will continue With guidance from York Region Public Health and in an abundance of caution for both residents and staff around the COVID-19 pandemic, King Township is responding with the following changes in operations:
During the closure, council chambers will be set up for King’s Emergency Operations Centre and ready in the event the decision is made to activate. Citizens can still do business with King on our website at www.king.ca, by phone at 905-833-5321 or by email at serviceking@king.ca. We thank the public for its patience during this time. The risk to York Region residents of acquiring the virus in the community remains low. Visit york.ca/covid19 for more information or call Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653.You may also contact Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 for medical advice. Telehealth Ontario is a free confidential service you can call to receive health advice or information. A registered nurse will take your call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Media contact Jason Ballantyne, Communications Officer Phone: 416-559-5093 E-mail: jballantyne@king.ca |
2019 Updates from the Township
MEDIA RELEASE
King Township is pleased to announce the appointment of Daniel Kostopoulos as its incoming Chief Administrative Officer effective April 1, 2019.
Mr. Kostopoulos, a professional engineer, has over 28 years of experience in the municipal sector.
Much of his career has been spent with York Region where he served in several progressive capacities; as its Commissioner of Transportation Services where he had overall responsibility for delivering roads, transit and fleet services, and as Director in Environmental Services responsible for delivering major capital infrastructure programs for Water, Wastewater and Waste Management.
Most recently Mr. Kostopoulos was the Chief Administrative Officer of the City of Vaughan.
“Daniel’s obvious skills and experience—combined with his track record and interest in citizen satisfaction and employee engagement—make him an ideal candidate to be King’s next Chief Administrative Officer,” said Mayor Steve Pellegrini.
In his previous roles, Mr. Kostopoulos was responsible for leading as many as 2,000 employees and for delivering large-scale programs and public services.
“I am very much looking forward to working with the Mayor, Members of Council, staff and the community to advance Council’s priorities, deliver public services and oversee the business obligations of King Township,” said Mr. Kostopoulos.
Mr. Kostopoulos will be replacing Susan Plamondon who is retiring at the end of March.
Media contact
Jason Ballantyne
Communications Officer Phone:
416-559-5093
Cell: 416-559-5093
E-mail: jballantyne@king.ca
2017 Updates from the Township
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 5, 2017
King continues pushing for high-speed internet
Township hosting information event on broadband in King
King is not slowing down on its efforts to speed up the installation of broadband (high-speed) internet infrastructure across the township.
In order to keep up the momentum, King has invited key stakeholders to an information session on Tues., May 23 from 7 pm to 8:30 pm at the Dr. William Laceby Community Center and Arena in Nobleton.
Among those invited to attend are both large and small internet service providers (ISPs) and King-Vaughan MP Deb Schulte. The event will be moderated by King Township Mayor Steve Pellegrini.
“We’ve heard loud and clear from residents and businesses there is not enough high-speed internet service in King,” said Pellegrini. “And even though we’re not ultimately responsible read more ...
Budget passes, large capital projects on tap
King Township council unanimously approved the 2017 budget at this evening’s council meeting, with a projected blended increase of 2.32 per cent. This includes assumptions related to the York Region and education tax rates. Read more ...
Bringing high-speed internet access to rural residents in King Township and Huron County
King Township, Ontario – January 23, 2017—The Governments of Canada and Ontario are committed to investing in infrastructure that will grow the middle class and contribute to the development of the economy in communities across Canada. Read more ...
2016 Updates from the Township April 21, 2016 Mayor's Annual Luncheon - Presentation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Dec. 8,
2016 Library expansion to include new Seniors Centre
An expansion of the existing library in King City—including the relocation of the Seniors Centre—received a green light from council at a special meeting Tuesday night.
Alar Kongats, the project’s architect, took council through a presentation of what the expansion could look like, including concept drawings showing a beautiful, modernized building.
“We’re excited about improving our library services while, at the same time, offering a fantastic space for our seniors,” said Mayor Steve Pellegrini. “While there is still a lot of work to be done, we’re on our way to providing an amazing public space that will make the community proud.”
Some of the goals and benefits of an updated and expanded library/seniors centre include ... Read more.
IMMEDIATE RELEASE Dec. 7, 2016
New municipal offices move one step closer
A new municipal centre at 2585 King Rd. is a lot closer to reality after King Township council approved the detailed design and tendering of the construction phase at a special meeting last night. The contract to construct the new building will go out to tender next month. If all goes according to schedule, construction could start as early as April of 2017.
“This is a big day for King Township,” said Mayor Steve Pellegrini. “It’s no secret ... Read more
Notice of Completion and Comment Period July 22, 2016
Water and Wastewater Master Plan Update and Transportation Master Plan Update
The Regional Municipality of York is planning for the future and has completed updates to its Water and Wastewater Master Plan and Transportation Master Plan. Research, analysis and community input guided the updates. Thank you to all who participated ...
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 27, 2016
New recreation facilities slated for King Township
A multi-use community recreation facility is on the horizon, thanks to King Township and Seneca College reaching an agreement that would see one built on the college’s King City campus.
King Township council approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Seneca at Monday night’s council meeting. An MOU is an agreement used to establish official partnerships. Read More ...
For immediate release Tues., June 28, 2016 Highlights of the King Township June 28 council meeting Read More ...
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 10, 2016
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Partnership bringing a lot of colour to King City
A private/public partnership is bringing a whole lot of colour to a little bit of King City.
Work on a mural has started on Keele Street, just south of King Road. The property, which is slated for development, is on the west side of Keele Street and is fronted by a 150-foot long section of temporary fencing, also known as hoarding.
Ward 5 councillor Debbie Schaefer approached King Township staff about possibly doing something creative with Read More ....
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 7, 2016
King residents want to shop locally, survey says
Almost 80 per cent of King residents try to shop locally whenever possible, according to the results of the recent ShopKING survey conducted by King Township’s Economic Development Office.
However, many of them “rarely or never” shop in King City (44.1 per cent), Nobleton (51.8 per cent) or Schomberg (57.6 per cent). The reason? - More than 70 per cent said the main reason they Read More
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 31, 2016 King picks design for new municipal offices
Better customer experience at the heart of Project MOVE Project MOVE is moving forward.
That was the decision made by King Township council at its May 30 meeting when it chose to build a new municipal office building at 2585 King Road instead of trying to repurpose the former Holy Name elementary school.
King Township purchased the school property almost ... Read More
Highlights of the King Township May 30 council meeting
Project MOVE moving forward Council approved building a new municipal office building at 2585 King Rd., site of the former Holy Name school after being presented with three options. The first two involved partial demolition and renovation of the existing building, while the third option called for a complete demolition and new build. The new build was estimated to cost only 3.7% more ... Read more
York Region Growth and Development Review 2015 Read More ...
MEDIA RELEASE - Tues., May 17, 2016
Highlights of the King Township May 16 council meeting
Nobleton zoning bylaw Council received the proposed final draft zoning bylaw for the Nobleton urban area and referred it back to staff and the project’s planning consultants. Staff and the planning consultants will then bring back further recommendations in a future report, including the proposed final bylaw, taking into account comments received from departments, agencies and the public. Read More ...
King City & Schomberg Zoning By-law Review
Public Open House #1
King Township has initiated a review of the Zoning By-law as it applies to the King City & Schomberg urban areas. The outcome of this project will be new Zoning By-law(s) for King City & Schomberg. All interested persons are invited to attend an open house to learn about this project and contribute to our understanding of the types of issues with the current Zoning By-law. The Draft King City & Schomberg Zoning By-law(s) will be prepared in the second half of 2016. Additional open houses will be held as the project progresses. Read More ...
MEDIA RELEASE
New community profiles aim to attract investment. Did you know 20 new businesses opened in King City in 2015? Or that there are more than 135 businesses in Nobleton? These are just two of the infographics included in King Township’s new community investment profiles.
“Highlighting some of the economic benefits of working or living in King Township is ... Read More ...
King Township Resident Survey Results March 23rd,2016 Read More ...