Statement: Dr. Eileen de Villa’s Retirement

It was with mixed emotions that I received Dr. Eileen de Villa’s letter of resignation as Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health at the end of this year.

As Chair of the Board of Health, I have had the privilege of working closely with Dr. de Villa, and I am deeply grateful for her unwavering support, guidance, and willingness to collaborate. While her departure saddens me, I am excited for the opportunities that await her, and I am confident she will leave Toronto Public Health well-positioned for continued success.

Dr. de Villa’s contributions to the City of Toronto are immeasurable. Over her eight years as Medical Officer of Health, she has navigated us through unprecedented challenges, most notably the COVID-19 pandemic. It was an incredibly difficult experience for everyone, especially Toronto Public Health staff, but Dr. De Villa consistently delivered critical updates with a reassuring voice that said “it is going to be okay”, even when the path ahead seemed uncertain.

Although Dr. de Villa announced her retirement today, she will continue shepherding us through this transitional period until the year's end, ensuring a smooth transition. Toronto Public Health’s new Strategic Plan will be complete, The Works’ relocation will be nearly complete and a comprehensive transition plan will be implemented for her successor. To begin that process, I will bring forward a motion at the upcoming Board of Health meeting on May 27 to form a search committee for our next Medical Officer of Health.

Dr. de Villa, thank you for your service to the City of Toronto. Your leadership in building a healthier, more equitable city has made a lasting impact, and your dedication to public health will be remembered and celebrated. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavours.

Chris Moise 
Chair, Toronto Board of Health 
City Councillor, Ward 13 – Toronto Centre

Latest posts

Church Street Pedestrianization Public Survey

The City is doing a survey of the Church Street Pedestrianization Project that my office and the Church-Wellesley Village BIA is operating on Church Street between Wellesley Street East and Alexander Street until August 21. Your feedback will help inform the City's response to future street closures here and across the City. If your a resident who has been to Church Street, take the survey! And if you haven't yet been, come see what you're missing then take the survey! The survey closes September 7, 2026.

Identify ‘N Impact Youth Grants - Apply by September 15!

The City of Toronto’s Identify ‘N Impact community grant helps promote youth engagement and community safety by providing up to $17K for youth-led (15-29) initiatives that help with violence prevention, mental health and well-being, skills development, arts and youth-friendly spaces. Applications are now open until September 15 at 12:00pm.

Biidaasige Park is Bigger, Better and more Beautiful!

Opened last year, Biidaasige Park is expanding with 10 more acres of public waterfront space at 238 Cherry Street on Ookwemin Minising. With new places to walk, cycle, paddle, gather, enjoy public art and take in skyline views, residents and visitors are invited to come celebrate during opening weekend on July 25 and 26. See what’s happening this weekend and beyond, including free guided kayak tours, walking tours and art-making workshops.