A legacy of leadership in Emery Village
By Sandra Farina
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Giorgio Mammoliti, former City of Toronto Ward 7 Councillor, who for many years served the Ward 7 community with energy, conviction, and an unwavering belief in the potential of the people and businesses he represented.
Early on, Giorgio was on board in establishing the Emery Village Business Improvement Area, founded in 2003 by Steve Sanderson of Accident Support Services and the late Bob Chabot of Centennial Sweeping, both located on Toryork Drive. Today, it is one of the largest BIAs in Canada. Councillor Mammoliti’s leadership helped create a pioneering model that brought together both commercial and industrial businesses and property owners to collaborate on strategies to revitalize the area. Through this innovative approach, Giorgio championed a vision in which economic growth, community enhancement, and long-term sustainability could advance together.
A proud and enthusiastic promoter of the Emery Village BIA and the broader BIA movement across Toronto, Giorgio understood that thriving local economies are built through partnership, investment, and civic pride. He consistently supported initiatives that strengthened the local business community and improved residents’ quality of life.
Giorgio was also a strong advocate for recognizing and preserving the heritage and evolving story of Emery—from its early days as a small settlement along the Humber River to the dynamic and diverse community it is today. He believed deeply in celebrating Indigenous peoples, long-time settlers, and the many newcomers who have shaped the area, as well as the entrepreneurs whose growing businesses have helped transform Emery into a strategic employment zone and an important driver of Toronto’s economic future.
On a personal note, I have known Giorgio since the beginning of my tenure as Executive Director and through my many interactions with him as a member of the BIA’s Board of Directors. Apart from his sometimes headline-grabbing announcements and positions, I always felt he wanted what was best for the community he was proud to represent. In many conversations—and yes, sometimes differing opinions over the years—he always maintained a respectful and caring disposition.
His legacy lives on in the businesses, public spaces, and community partnerships that continue to define Emery Village today.
To his family, and on behalf of the Board of Directors and the wider Emery community, we extend our heartfelt condolences and share in their sorrow.
He will be missed.