Toronto councillors vote to give themselves 24% pay raise

Salary report noted that Toronto councillors earn less money per constituent than similar cities, and deal with larger operating budgets

Author

code harman
March 31, 2025

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Let’s dive into what’s new, exciting, and important in Toronto this week—big updates, must-attend events, and a few local gems you won’t want to miss.

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In today's edition:

  • Toronto councillors vote to give themselves 24% pay raise.

  • Restaurant of the Week: Nobu Restaurant.

  • Toronto FC loan Hugo Mbongue to Lexington SC.

  • Toronto Urban Design Award submissions being accepted.

  • Blue Jays pitcher donates half a million dollars to Jays’ Care Foundation.

— Harman
Toronto Local Loop

News

Toronto councillors vote to give themselves 24% pay raise

Source: Global News

A salary report found Toronto councillors earn less per constituent than in similar cities while managing larger budgets.

Here’s what’s happening:

  • Toronto’s city council voted in favour of a pay hike for themselves this week. The motion to increase their salaries was passed by a vote of 15 to 8.

  • The approved pay raise will see Toronto city councillors' salaries increase to $170,588 from $137,537, effective retroactively to January 1st of this year. This represents a 24 per cent increase, which amounts to $33,051.

  • During the vote, three councillors were absent, including Don Valley East councillor Jon Burnside. The National Post attempted to contact Burnside but was informed that he was unavailable for comment.

Source: National Post

🚌 City Services & Transit

  • TTC Subway Service

    • There is no subway service between Victoria Park and Kennedy stations due to planned track work. Shuttle buses are running to accommodate passengers.

  • York Region Transit (YRT) Updates

    • No immediate changes this week, but next service adjustments are scheduled for April 27, 2025. Current routes remain operational with adjustments made earlier in the year.

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Restaurant of the Week: Nobu Restaurant

Source: Nobu

Nobu Toronto is a luxurious dining destination located in the heart of downtown Toronto, near the CN Tower on Mercer Street. As part of the globally renowned Nobu empire, this restaurant delivers an upscale experience characterized by elegant decor, innovative Japanese-Peruvian cuisine, and a glamorous atmosphere that attracts a sophisticated crowd.

Atmosphere and Location

Situated within the Nobu Hotel, Nobu Toronto exudes high-end minimalism. The interior features polished wood, dramatic black marble, and a striking staircase that sets the stage for an opulent dining experience. The ambiance is designed for those who appreciate understated elegance and the social buzz of dining in a fashionable setting.

🍴 What to Try

  • Signature Dishes: Black Cod with Miso (a melt-in-your-mouth classic), Yellowtail Jalapeño (delicate and flavorful), and Lobster Tempura (perfectly crispy yet tender).

  • Desserts: Soba Cha Brownie (sweet yet savory) and Mochi Ice Cream (assorted flavors).

  • Appetizers: Spicy Edamame (beware of the heat) and Wagyu Dumplings (juicy and rich).

  • Sushi Rolls: Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna and Toro & Scallion Rolls.

Reviews

“Nobu Toronto is really really good. Absolutely the most exquisite, flavor-filled meal I have had in a little while. I tried to have as many dishes as possible, but the Black Cod with Miso was the standout—truly exceptional.”
— TripAdvisor Reviewer

“Came for a special occasion and loved the Lobster Tempura and Wagyu Dumplings. The desserts were unique, especially the Soba Cha Brownie. However, some dishes like tacos felt underwhelming in flavor.”
— Yelp Reviewer

📍 Location
25 Mercer Street, Toronto
Price: $$$$ ($100+ per person)
Contact: (365) 922-8800

Nobu Toronto offers an extravagant dining experience that combines artistry with indulgence. While some dishes may not live up to their price tag, its signature creations and stunning atmosphere make it a must-visit for special occasions or those seeking culinary luxury.

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City Updates

SPORTS
Toronto FC loan Hugo Mbongue to Lexington SC

Source: Toronto FC

Toronto FC details a temporary move for their forward, Hugo Mbongue, who will be joining Lexington SC in the USL Championship. The provided information outlines Mbongue's recent performance history with other clubs in the USL Championship and his previous involvement with Toronto FC's first team, their MLS Next Pro affiliate, and their academy. Furthermore, the text highlights Mbongue's international experience representing Canada at youth levels, contextualizing his development as a player within the Canadian soccer landscape. The core purpose of the text is to communicate this player loan transaction and provide relevant background on Mbongue's career trajectory.

Source: TorontoFC

CITY
Toronto Urban Design Award submissions being accepted

Source: Toront.ca

The City of Toronto is currently soliciting entries for the 2025 Toronto Urban Design Awards, a biennial program now celebrating its 35th year. This competition aims to acknowledge outstanding work in fields like architecture, landscape architecture, and urban design, with a newly added category for public art. Importantly, submissions must demonstrate how projects align with Toronto's Official Plan goals, emphasizing aspects such as sustainability, equity, reconciliation, and diversity, with a deadline for entry set in April and an awards ceremony planned for September.

Community Digest

Blue Jays pitcher donates almost half a million dollars to Jays’ Care Foundation

Source: Jays Foundation

Blue Jays pitcher Chris Bassitt and his wife, Jessica, who for the third consecutive year are pledging a significant donation to the Jays Care Foundation's RBI Summer Edition program for each of his winning starts. Their past contributions have already totaled over $400,000, and they actively encourage fan involvement through additional fundraising initiatives like auctions and 50/50 draws. The RBI Summer Edition is described as a free sports and development program benefiting children in under-resourced Toronto communities by providing a safe and active environment.

Upcoming Events

Here are some highlights for the week ahead. For a full list of events, stay tuned for future editions!

🎭 Theatre & Arts

🎵 Music & Comedy

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Sports

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Let us know what you think of this week’s edition, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. We’ll see you next week!

Cheers,
Harman
Toronto Local Loop

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