Pickering promotes civic engagement through new Ratepayer Association Registry

Posted on Thursday May 16, 2024

Pickering, ON, May 14, 2024 – The City of Pickering has recently approved a new policy and a formalized registration process to better profile and support local Ratepayer Associations.

A Ratepayer Association is an organization, formed by a group of residents in a defined area, that comes together to address issues affecting its neighbourhood. It plays an important role in the process of civic engagement through advancing community initiatives and raising awareness about matters affecting the community. As such, the City introduced a formal registration process to help increase public awareness of these groups, and better profile them as a resource for the broader community. 

“Pickering is a diverse and growing City, and it is important to highlight and support the various ways that residents can build connections, share knowledge, learn more about local government, and contribute to the city’s success,” said Mayor Kevin Ashe. “Ratepayer Associations provide a unique forum for residents to collaborate with their neighbours, and discuss local opportunities and challenges related to the community they call home.”

Ratepayer Associations can receive a number of benefits by formally registering with the City, including the following (restrictions may apply, view section 08 of Policy ADM 270 for details): 

  • Complimentary black and white printing.
  • Direct email notification of upcoming Council and Committee Meetings.
  • Direct notification of certain matters pertaining to public engagement or statutory notices, initiated by the City, that may impact their geographic boundaries.
  • Promotion of the Ratepayer Association’s details on the City’s dedicated website page.
  • Access to one free City facility meeting space to hold an All Candidates Meeting in an election year, subject to availability and the City’s scheduled programs and services.
  • Recognition as a Registered Ratepayer Association for the purpose of delegating at a Committee or Council Meeting.

Visit pickering.ca/RatepayerAssociations for registration details, eligibility criteria, the Ratepayer Association Policy, and more.

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As the gateway to the east GTA, Pickering (population 100,000) is strategically located where Toronto, York and Durham Regions meet. An award-winning municipality, Pickering is slated for significant economic and residential growth; offering an unparalleled quality of life for those who live, work, and play here. Its dynamic City Centre has been designated by the Province of Ontario as both an Urban Growth Centre and Mobility Hub, and continues to evolve as a preferred destination for creative learning, memorable events, and unique experiences at the heart of a vibrant, connected, and engaged community.

Media Contact:

Shauna Muir
Supervisor, Public Affairs & Corporate Communications
Office of the CAO
905.420.4660 ext. 2134