Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Markham town council on its decision last night to become a city, effective Canada Day, 2012.
Over the last half century, probably no place in Canada has changed more than Markham has. From a small, agriculture-based town, Markham has emerged as Canada's high-tech centre and is the most diverse community in the country.
With a population of 300,000, it is time for Markham to become a city, not only for reasons of population, but also to attract investment and jobs.
Markham is also a very well-governed town. The town council has managed to keep property taxes virtually flat for the last four years.
Markham is also one of the greenest communities in the country.
When asked which community I represent in this Parliament, as of Canada Day, I will be very proud to say, the city of Markham.