WHEREAS, in the province of Ontario, the first Monday in the month of August is a provincial holiday known simply as “Civic Holiday”; and
WHEREAS, certain municipalities in Ontario have chosen to retitle the day, as it is celebrated within their respective jurisdiction, in honour of historical personage (e.g., in the City of Toronto, the date is observed as “Simcoe Day” to commemorate the first lieutenant-governor of Upper Canada); and
WHEREAS, such action adds historical importance to the day and a point of reference to celebrations held in the community; and
WHEREAS, the City of Markham has an opportunity to pay tribute to a person of historical significance by dedicating an annual civic holiday in his or her name; and
WHEREAS, the Federal Government designated William Berczy a person of National Historical Importance, who helped John Graves Simcoe establish a settlement in what is now considered the City of Markham; and
WHERERAS, William Berczy helped build houses and roads in Markham township and cleared the way for navigation on the Rouge River; and
WHEREAS, the City of Markham has erected a statue of William Berczy in a municipal square and dedicated a subdivision and park in his name;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that in celebration of Markham’s 225th Anniversary, the City of Markham, within the jurisdictional boundaries of the City, rename the provincial holiday known presently as “Civic Holiday” as “William Berczy Day;’ and,
That the history of William Berczy and the early settlers be continually celebrated in the City of Markham through public events, communications and dedications; and,
That communications within the City pay tribute to William Berczy for helping John Graves Simcoe establish a settlement in what is now considered the City of Markham; and,
That the City of Markham continue and build upon its historical partnership with Nordlingen Germany to carry on the legacy of William Berczy and the early settlers; and further,
That September 28, 2019 and every Civic Holiday thereafter be designated as "William Berczy Day".