Toronto the Better series: Toronto Star

 (It will take a few months, but I am working on a piece about social infrastructure and community cohesion that goes beyond the library as a hub.)

The Toronto Star has introduced the Toronto the Better initiative ("It’s time to make Toronto better. For the sake of the city — and for all of us").  Under Mayor John Tory, his approach was one of austerity, not taxing enough to keep up with inflation, let alone new needs, or investment in declining public assets.

Laughingly, last election he said he was the solution to people's complaints about a declining city ("Brutal performance art criticism of Toronto's Mayor, John Tory, and his "austerity" agenda").  He did get reelected, but stepped down soon after when it was disclosed he had an affair.  

Mayor-elect Olivia Chow cycles with a peloton of supporters down Bay Street to Nathan Phillips Square ahead of her swearing in. Steve Russell / Toronto Star 

Olivia Chow won the special election ("Most Torontonians say life in the city is getting worse. Here’s how Olivia Chow can help change that," Star). She's a transportational cyclist ("Olivia Chow rides her bike to her first day as Toronto's mayor").

According to the article launching the Better initiative:

That’s why I’m excited to announce the Star’s major initiative for 2025: Toronto the Better — an ambitious, optimistic and constructive series exploring how we can improve the quality of life in this city, both collectively and individually. Our problems are well known; it’s time we start talking about solutions.

... Many readers have told me they want more uplifting, solutions-focused journalism. That’s exactly what Toronto the Better will deliver. Over the next year, we’ll draw from psychology and sociology research, best practices in urban planning and the lived experiences of Torontonians to find ways to make our city — and our lives — better. I’m hopeful we’ll not only inform, but also inspire. 

We’re kicking off the series today by focusing on purpose and meaning, starting with the benefits of giving back. As you make your New Year’s resolutions, I urge you to consider adding volunteering to your list. It’s not just an opportunity to help the community — it’s also one of the most impactful ways to improve your own well-being. Throughout the year, we’ll highlight the people and organizations making a difference in Toronto and share volunteering opportunities that can inspire real change. Even if just a handful of readers take up this challenge, it will be worth it — but imagine the impact if thousands did.

Interestingly, this series seems to be the flip side of an earlier campaign, "Can't We Do Better," spearheaded by City Hall columnist Edward Keenan ("Trashy litter bins, decrepit transit, cancelled swimming lessons: Toronto, can’t we do better? The stories in the Star series").

The new campaign takes on a more positive spin.