Jaye Robinson, councillor for Don Valley West, has been replaced by Coun. Anthony Peruzza as chair of the community development and recreation committee on the mayor’s executive council.
This comes after several turbulent weeks at City Hall with all attention focused on the crack cocaine video scandal linked to the mayor. Robinson has publically urged the mayor, who has denied allegations and the existence of any video, to offer more clarity to constituents, saying that the scandal has distracted citizens from city issues.
“Every time you go out to your ward, it’s all people want to talk about,” said Robinson. She cited the debate over the downtown casino, which was rejected without much fanfare the week the accusations broke. “The casino debate was probably one of the most contentious issues we’ve debated in years, and it just disappeared and almost went unnoticed.”
She said that her constituents have told her that the scandal is affecting Toronto’s international image. “It’s a pretty established ward with people who are business leaders going to business meetings across the world,” said Robinson. “A business leader in my ward was very concerned because [an international company] is looking at doing some transactions with Toronto and they’re questioning whether Toronto’s stable.”
The mayor’s office has denied that the ouster was personal and was based on the desire to promote Peruzza. The newly appointed councillor admits he is less familiar with community development and recreation.
“My first priority is getting up to speed,” he said. He has praised the work that his predecessor has done. “She’s done a great job.”
Robinson says this experience has strengthened her desire to run for re-election in 2014. “I’m definitely running for re-election — definitely, as never before.” Despite a tough month, she says she’s looking on the bright side. “I’m a strong person, and I’ve got huge support,” she said. “I’ve had hundreds of e-mails of support and people actually congratulating me, which is kind of funny.”