Statement on John Tory’s Departure

The City of Toronto will officially see a change in leadership this evening at 5pm.  I would like to take this opportunity to express my deep gratitude to John Tory for his years of service as Mayor.

This week, my office received countless phone calls and emails from constituents voicing their sadness for his departure. These sentiments are understandable. John is one of the hardest working individuals at City Hall who cares about the millions of people that make up our great city. He steered Canada’s largest city through a global pandemic and brought stability through a crucial period in history. He forged strong relationships with those in other levels of government and in communities across Toronto. He made federalism work. His willingness to work collaboratively across the political spectrum is a key hallmark in his style of leadership.

I am honoured to have worked alongside John, for the past 8 years, on solutions to a wide range of issues that directly affected my constituents and across Toronto. It was an honour to have stood with him as he made announcements on an array of investments advancing City priorities. I will be forever grateful for the opportunities he gave me.

I wish John and his family well in the days and years ahead.

Sincerely,

James Pasternak
City Councillor for Ward 6 – York Centre

Chair, North York Community Council

Chair, General Government Committee