Item - 2026.EX32.14

The Executive Committee recommends that:

1. City Council receive the 2026 Sociable City Summit and Academy April 12-15, 2026, meeting update outlined in the letter (June 2, 2026) from Councillor Paul Ainslie for information.

I am writing to provide an update on my participation in the 2026 Sociable City Summit and Academy, held from April 12–15, 2026.

As Toronto’s Night Economy Champion, I attended the Summit and Academy to engage with municipal leaders, industry experts, and practitioners from around the world on emerging trends and best practices in fostering vibrant, inclusive, and well-managed nighttime economies.

In my role, I have worked with Council, City staff, and community stakeholders to strengthen and modernize Toronto’s night economy. This work builds on the City’s Nightlife Action Plan, which advances a coordinated approach to planning the night, supporting creative and cultural industries, and promoting safe and inclusive nighttime activity.

Over the past several years, Toronto has made meaningful progress. We undertook a comprehensive Night Economy Review, engaging more than 3,000 stakeholders, which resulted in modernized licensing and zoning regulations to better reflect contemporary nightlife and entertainment models, including expanded opportunities for venues and more flexible licensing frameworks.

We have also strengthened ongoing collaboration and accountability through the External Night Economy Working Group, which I chair, bringing together representatives from business, arts and culture, and community organizations to inform policy and address emerging issues. In addition, the City has introduced practical supports such as the Good Neighbour Guide for Late-Night Businesses and convenes an annual Night Economy Town Hall to share updates and gather feedback from sector participants.

Looking ahead, Toronto is advancing key initiatives, including Night Lab stakeholder workshops, a 2026 Economic Impact Study to better quantify the sector’s contribution, and targeted, place-based work such as the King West Community Night Safety Plan to improve safety, coordination, and the public realm in high-activity areas.

At the Sociable City Summit and Academy, I participated in sessions exploring nighttime economy strategy development, regulatory approaches to hybrid venues, sound management, and the importance of cultural stewardship and community belonging in nightlife. Discussions also highlighted global trends across major cities and reinforced the importance of governance structures, safety initiatives, and collaboration in supporting thriving night economies.

The knowledge and connections gained through this experience will help inform Toronto’s ongoing efforts to support businesses and workers, enhance safety, and ensure our night economy continues to contribute to the city’s cultural vibrancy and economic growth.

I look forward to continuing this work in partnership with Council, City staff, and stakeholders across Toronto.