About Stephen Holyday
An Experienced & Outspoken Member of Council
First elected in 2014, Stephen Holyday has served as Councillor for Etobicoke Centre for 12 years. In 2018, he was re-elected, representing the new larger ward, double in size from the previous. In 2022 the residents of Etobicoke Centre confidently re-elected Stephen, where he has continued to serve.
In 2017, he was appointed as Deputy Mayor during his first Council term, and reappointed again in 2018 through to 2022.
On Council, Stephen has championed lower taxes, improved infrastructure, and stronger public safety measures. He has consistently opposed wasteful spending and advocated for evidence-based decision-making.
Stephen is a Dean’s List graduate of Ryerson University (now TMU) with a Bachelor of Technology in Architectural Science. Majoring in design, Stephen also studied project management and building science. Stephen’s education has provided the foundation to apply analytical and critical thinking to complex problems, and make evidence-based decisions. With over 27 years of experience in public service, before being elected Stephen held several roles in the Ontario Public Service, including as a Manager at the Ministry of Energy. Stephen has considerable experience in facilities, information technology, business continuity planning, emergency management, and the energy sector, along with in-depth expertise in government and decision-making processes. Appointed by different Mayors and his peers, Stephen Holyday has served as Chair and Vice Chair of key government bodies. These are important leadership positions integral to the success of government. They require expertise, skills and knowledge to work with officials of various political stripe, and to collaborate effectively with the Public Service. In addition to his duties on City Council and providing constituency services, Stephen Holyday leads and serves on the following City Committees and Boards which represent the foundation of Toronto’s government: 2022-2026: • Audit Committee, Chair • Etobicoke York Community Council, Chair • Service Excellence Committee, Chair • General Government Committee, Vice Chair • Canadian National Exhibition Association, Vice President • Hockey Hall of Fame Board of Directors • Heritage Toronto Board of Directors Between 2014 to 2022, Stephen held several senior key leadership roles including the Chair of the Special Committee on Governance, Chair of the Corporations Nominating Panel, Vice Chair of the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee, Vice Chair of the Employee and Labour Relations Committee, board director of Toronto Hydro Corporation, and TTC Commissioner.
TRUSTED EXPERIENCE
A Proud Ward 2 Resident
A lifelong resident of Etobicoke, Stephen grew up in the community he now serves. As a homeowner in Etobicoke Centre and family man with retirement-aged parents, he understands increasing challenges that face our community in a growing amalgamated city influenced by downtown thinking and rising costs.
Stephen's wife Margaret is a professional municipal land use planner. Together they have three children who attend high school and university. The Holyday family are active in their community, their church and in local sports.
Prior to their current home, Stephen and Margaret owned a condominium in Etobicoke. Stephen served as the Treasurer of the Board of Directors, ensuring the financial wellbeing of the community. Stephen has experience with the needs of residents of high-rise buildings, and the additional responsibilities of condominium ownership.