Toronto weekly digest — Jan 5–11, 2026

Anti-immigration rally: Eight arrested after clashes outside City Hall Police say eight people face multiple charges after a Canada First rally and counter‑protest at Nathan Phillips Square around 2 p.m. on Saturday. Officers report “completely unacceptable” behaviour: three officers were assaulted and the Toronto Police Association says officers were pelted with eggs and bags allegedly containing urine.

Finch West LRT launch problems acknowledged Metrolinx CEO Michael Lindsay said the new Finch West LRT — launched in December — has struggled in very cold weather. Switch failures have led to repeated suspensions (notably on Boxing Day). Metrolinx and the TTC kept parallel bus service during the ramp‑up anticipating teething issues.

Chrystia Freeland resigns as MP; byelection required Freeland vacated her University–Rosedale seat to become an unpaid adviser to Ukraine’s government. The vacancy triggers a byelection: the Canada Elections Act requires the writ to be issued between 11 and 180 days after notification, with the byelection held at least 36 days after the writ is issued (and no more than 50 days after it’s called).

City finances: 2.2% budget and provincial policy hit parks/libraries Toronto tabled a draft 2026 budget with a 2.2% tax increase (0.7% property tax + 1.5% city‑building levy). City staff warned the Ford government’s move to let developers defer fees will stall almost $2 billion in the long‑term building plan, forcing delays to park and library projects.

Mother sentenced after baby drowned A Toronto woman was sentenced to three years in federal prison after leaving her nearly 15‑month‑old son unattended in a bathtub; the child drowned. The court noted the family had prior CAS cautions.

TTC budget: fare freeze, $3B operating and $1.5B city ask The TTC’s operating plan totals about $3 billion with roughly $1.5 billion in fare and other revenue, leaving an approximate $1.5 billion gap it wants the city to cover — a 6.5% increase in the city contribution versus last year. The plan includes a fare freeze, expanded station cleaning pilot, anti‑bus‑bunching measures and $1.6 billion in planned capital spending.