And that’s a wrap on 2024 Mississauga!
Mississauga bids farewell to a year of change, resiliency and community spirit.
City building | December 24, 2024
As the City of Mississauga turns the page on its landmark 50th year, we reflect on a chapter filled with triumphs, challenges, and unwavering community spirit. Like a seasoned athlete hitting their stride, our city has demonstrated remarkable agility and strength, navigating through a year that tested our resolve, but ultimately showcased our collective resilience.
Celebrating half a century of ‘awesomeness’
Our 50th anniversary celebrations painted Mississauga with a golden hue, as we honoured our rich history and the diverse tapestry of cultures that have made Mississauga the thriving community that it is. The City marked the milestone in several ways. From the 50 Acts of Kindness Challenge, the release of Mississauga’s 50th anthem and a massive land art fresco, to a history hunt, the community celebrated not just where we’ve been, but the boundless potential of where we’re heading.
Election of a new mayor in June
In a pivotal period for the City, Mississauga voters welcomed Carolyn Parrish, whose mayoral by-election win in June marked not just a change in leadership, but a renewal of vision. With her determination and wealth of experience, Mayor Parrish was quick to place her mark on issues impacting the City’s residents and businesses. Voters in Ward 5 elected Natalie Hart as their councillor.
The Mayor’s Housing Taskforce
Understanding that a city is only as strong as its foundations, the Mayor’s Housing Taskforce in 2024 laid the groundwork to shaping a future where every Mississauga resident can find their place to call home.
E-Scooter and e-bike program launches
Mississauga embraced sustainable urban mobility in 2024 with the launch of its e-scooter and e-bike program. The initiative introduced a fleet of electric scooters and bicycles available for public use throughout Mississauga. The program aims to reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and provide residents with convenient, eco-friendly transportation options for short trips. Early data shows promising adoption rates, with thousands of rides logged in the first few months of operation.
Driving business success in Mississauga
It was another productive year on the economic development front. In February, the Economic Developers Council of Ontario recognized the City of Mississauga’s Economic Development Office for two innovative projects that support the City’s economy. The Equity and Diversity Collaborative (EDC) received the Award of Excellence for Inclusive Based Initiatives & Programming, while IDEA Square One was recognized as a finalist in the Building Initiatives category. The City also introduced the new ‘Invest Mississauga’ brand to support its status as a global business centre. Additionally, the IDEA Square One Entrepreneurship Hub, Mississauga’s anchor innovation location, celebrated one year of supporting small businesses, startups, and scale-ups in Mississauga.
Goat grazing eats away at invasive plant problem
In an innovative approach to environmental management, Mississauga introduced a goat grazing program in select parks and natural areas. This low-impact strategy, launched in spring 2024, employs a herd of goats to help remove invasive plant species without the use of herbicides or heavy machinery. The initiative has not only proven effective in controlling unwanted vegetation but has also become a popular attraction for residents, combining ecological benefits with community engagement and education.
Enhanced MiWay services
In response to the growing demands for public transit, Mississauga made major enhancements to its transit system in 2024. An additional 57,000 service hours and over 2,400 hours of additional maintenance and repair service were approved for MiWay in 2024. This investment means more buses on the road more frequently, reflecting not only the City’s commitment to improving public transit, but also realizing a vision of a connected and accessible Mississauga.
Facing nature’s fury
The summer of 2024 brought unprecedented challenges as Mississauga faced severe flooding due to record-breaking rainfall in July and August. The City’s response was swift, comprehensive, and compassionate with City Council approving financial relief to property owners hardest hit by the severe weather. The City also applied for and received provincial government relief, which provided crucial support to affected residents and businesses. City Council recognizes the urgent need to meet the challenges posed by climate change and in the aftermath approved an action plan to expand and accelerate both planned and new flood mitigation projects.
Hazel McCallion Central Library reopens
In a fitting tribute to Mississauga’s beloved former mayor, the Hazel McCallion Central Library celebrated its grand re-opening on February 3, 2024. The state-of-the-art facility, located in the heart of downtown Mississauga, features innovative technology, expansive reading spaces, and over 180,000 items available to borrow across five floors. Mayor Carolyn Parrish, alongside members of the McCallion family, cut the ribbon at the grand opening ceremony, emphasizing the library’s role as a hub for learning, community engagement, and cultural enrichment.
Supporting our most vulnerable residents
By declaring food insecurity an emergency in November, 2024, City Council recognized the pressing issue facing many residents. This important decision has created an opportunity for innovative solutions and encouraged community involvement to ensure that no one in Mississauga goes hungry. The City also put its weight behind the call put out by Poverty Without Disability and Campaign 2000’s to improve the Canada Disability Benefit and help individuals with disabilities live dignified and fulfilling lives.
Fire Station 125 enhances safety
One of the standout projects of 2024 was the development of Fire Station 125. This new fire station serves the fast-growing Ninth Line area and is part of a larger plan to build six new fire stations over the next 12 years. Station 125 is environmentally friendly, achieving net zero energy and meeting the City’s Green Building Standard. This project was one of many priorities the City has undertaken in 2024 to support a growing population and ensure a high quality of life for all residents.
Regional governance
Progress was made on the transfer of services from Peel Region. In late 2024, it was announced that the City will assume responsibility for solid waste collection and regional roads starting in 2026. This move is set to streamline operations and improve service delivery, marking a new chapter in Mississauga’s governance.
Looking ahead to 2025
And that’s a wrap on 2024 Mississauga! As we prepare to step into 2025, Mississauga stands ready to embrace a new year filled with promise and opportunity. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive community where everyone feels they belong is at the forefront of our efforts. Together, we will continue to build a vibrant city that celebrates diversity, encourages innovation, and prioritizes well-being for all residents. To stay up to date on what’s happening in your city, visit Mississauga.ca.
