Deputy Mayor Sterling Lee delivered the annual Mayors’ Address to the Ajax Pickering Board of Trade on March 24, 2026, highlighting significant local construction growth and the town’s strategic economic roadmap. Lee spoke on behalf of Mayor Shaun Collier, who was attending an industrial trade show in Germany to promote the region. The address outlined the town’s vision for the year, focusing on economic success and upcoming community programs.
The town has seen a major boost in development, with construction value reaching $1.4 billion since 2022. This growth is anchored by the GTA East Industrial Park, which has attracted global business leaders and created approximately 1,500 local jobs. Total construction value since 2018 has now reached $2.5 billion.
The speech also addressed the local homelessness crisis, noting that 330 people in the community are currently without a home. To help, the Town of Ajax is working with Durham Region on a 50-unit supportive housing project at Harwood Avenue and Achilles Road. The town has already invested over $500,000 to manage encampments and improve security for residents.
Renters in the community now have new legal protections after Council passed Bylaw No. 19-2026. This new rule sets minimum temperature requirements for rented homes to ensure tenants stay warm during the winter. Landlords who do not follow these heating standards could face penalties.
A new business program called Powered by Ajax will launch on April 1, 2026, requiring a $25 registration fee for local companies. This initiative is part of a larger strategic plan that includes 165 actions to modernize town services and grow the local economy. Lee also reaffirmed that diversity remains a core strength of the community as the town moves forward.
