Item - 2024.EC17.7

The Economic and Community Development Committee:

1. Received the report (November 12, 2024) from the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture for information.  

A healthy night economy requires a responsive municipal framework that enables nighttime business and culture to thrive while balancing the needs of all city residents and visitors. As directed by Council, two distinct but related night economy working groups were established to enhance the social, cultural, and economic activities taking place between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. This staff report provides updates on the efforts of the two working groups to advance this work. It also provides updates on other City efforts relating to the night economy, including the Night Economy Annual Town Hall, the Good Neighbour Guide for Late-Night Businesses, as well as the communication channels used to support work relating to the night economy.

The Night Economy Internal Working Group advances a coordinated approach across City divisions and agencies to ensure that Toronto's night experience is safe, positive, sustainable, and inclusive. The Night Economy External Working Group, in turn, provides insight from nighttime businesses, creative sectors, and residents to help inform the City's support of the night economy.

As described in this staff report, current priorities of the two working groups include: integrating applicable city-wide plans and strategies, such as SafeTO and Our Health, Our City; and enhancing those elements which can enable a healthy and sustainable night economy, including public transportation, flexible use of space, and family-friendly experiences.