News Release
May 17, 2024

Councillor Jaye Robinson (Don Valley West), member of Toronto City Council, passed away on Thursday, May 16.

Councillor Robinson was elected to City Council in 2010 and most recently served on the Economic and Community Development Committee, as well as representing constituents on the North York Community Council. She previously served as the Mayoral Designate to the Toronto Hydro Corporation Board of Directors, Chair of the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and Chair of the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee.

A passionate advocate for the arts and nature, she also served on the boards of directors for the Art Gallery of Ontario, Leaside Memorial Community Gardens Arena and Toronto Symphony Orchestra.

In her four terms, Councillor Robinson advocated for improvements to traffic and pedestrian safety, to build local parks and to enhance the beautiful neighbourhoods of Don Valley West.

Councillor Robinson was dedicated to improving the lives of Torontonians, spending approximately 20 years of her career in public service, first with the former City of North York and post-amalgamation, with the City of Toronto, where she was the Director of Special Events before running for municipal office. She played an integral role in launching a vibrant roster of events including Nuit Blanche, Summerlicious, Winterlicious and Moose in the City.

Councillor Robinson was a proud resident of Don Valley West where she lived with her husband, three sons and cocker spaniel, Sadie.

Flags at Toronto City Hall and all civic centres will be lowered to half-mast in Councillor Robinson’s honour. The Toronto Sign will also be dimmed tonight and on the day of Councillor Robinson’s funeral.

Condolence books will be placed at the North York Civic Centre, 5100 Yonge St., starting on Saturday, May 18 at noon, and at City Hall, 100 Queen St. W., on Tuesday, May 21. The books will be available until the end of the day of Councillor Robinson’s funeral.

Condolences can also be emailed to condolences@toronto.ca to be shared with Councillor Robinson’s family. Funeral arrangements will be shared when available on the City’s website.

Quote:

“I am saddened to hear of Councillor Jaye Robinson’s passing. She was a dedicated public servant who cared deeply about her constituents, fellow Council members and the residents of Toronto. Her decades of service with the City left an immeasurable mark on our city and she will be dearly missed at City Hall and by her constituents in Don Valley West. On behalf of my fellow colleagues at City Hall and all Toronto residents, we extend our sincere condolences to Councillor Robinson’s family, friends and loved ones during this time.”

– Mayor Olivia Chow

Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.

Media Relations