A proposal is on the table to rename a stadium in Etobicoke in honor of the late Rob Ford, a former mayor of Toronto. The motion, put forth by Councillor Paul Ainslie, is scheduled to be presented to the Toronto City Council next week and suggests that Centennial Park Stadium be officially designated as the “Rob Ford Stadium.” This initiative is in keeping with the city’s tradition of commemoratively renaming locations to honor former mayors who have served the community with dedication and enthusiasm. Notably, the motion acknowledges Rob Ford’s strong commitment to representing his constituents, particularly in Etobicoke, and his passion for football.
Despite the established City of Toronto property naming policy, which outlines specific criteria for such renamings, Councillor Ainslie’s motion is supported by Councillor Shelly Carroll. Rob Ford, who served three terms as a city councillor for Ward 2 before becoming mayor in 2010, had a tumultuous term marked by efforts to control city spending and enhance customer service in city operations. However, his personal conduct often overshadowed his policy initiatives, most notably during a scandal involving the use of crack cocaine. In 2014, he withdrew from his mayoral re-election campaign due to a rare and aggressive cancer diagnosis, and his brother, Doug Ford, ran in his place. Ultimately, John Tory won the mayoralty that year.
Rob Ford passed away in March 2016 at the age of 46. A previous attempt to rename the stadium after him in 2017 failed, despite support from Mayor John Tory.
Councillor Ainslie argues that the present time is opportune to reconsider the proposal as Centennial Park is undergoing significant changes as part of the Centennial Park Master Plan, approved by City Council in 2021. He believes that renaming the Centennial Park Stadium as the “Rob Ford Stadium” would be a fitting tribute to his fifteen years of public service.
Mayor Olivia Chow has confirmed her support for this latest motion to rename the stadium after Rob Ford, a sentiment shared by Premier Doug Ford, the late mayor’s brother. Both have recently emphasized their familial connections and resolved differences regarding past comments. Jack Layton, Chow’s late husband, shared a friendship with Rob Ford during their time as city councillors.
In response to the proposal, Premier Doug Ford expressed gratitude to Councillors Ainslie and Carroll and Mayor Chow for honoring his late brother’s memory and legacy. Rob Ford’s love for his community and football, especially his dedication to providing opportunities for young people to play the sport, makes renaming the stadium a deeply meaningful gesture.
This motion to rename the stadium “Rob Ford Stadium” is scheduled for discussion and voting at the upcoming council meeting on December 13.
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