NNNow News Blog
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Saturday, December 6, 2008
City's Response to the Parc Development
City Planning has sent a letter to the 25 Stafford (“Parc”) developer. Their summary of the letter is below.
NNN agrees with the city's assessment and looks forward to seeing changes to the development that are in line with the city's recommendations.
[City Summary Start]
• We consider the height and massing inappropriate for this location. The proposed height of the building should provide an appropriate transition between the adjacent building at 15 Stafford Street and the heritage listed Edward McNarmara row houses at 857-879 King Street West, and it should also provide an appropriate transition in height between the building to the west at 18 Stafford Street and Stanley Park South.
Our preliminary built form analysis shows that by reducing the height of the building further and stepping back the upper floor levels, a more context appropriate building could be developed that has no incremental shadow impacts on the Park above the 18m as-of-right shadow. This position is consistent with the position staff took regarding the building at 15 Stafford Street, where staff worked with the applicant to ensure there was negligible shadowing of the Park above the as-of-right shadowing.
The recommended changes would also reduce the overall density on the site (currently 9.4 times the lot area), bringing it more in keeping with the density at 15 Stafford Street (5.4 times the lot area) and 18 Stafford Street (6.4 times the lot area). The reduction in density would also help to address the deficiencies in parking and amenity space.
• The Bylaw requires 206m2 of indoor amenity space and 206m2 of outdoor amenity space. Only 76m2 in indoor amenity space is being provided and no outdoor amenity space is being provided. Additionally, indoor amenity space is required to be adjoining or directly accessible to the outdoor amenity space. While staff are usually supportive of minor reductions in amenity space requirements, we believe there is an opportunity to provide some outdoor amenity space onsite for all residents at grade, adjacent to the park as this many residents should not have to rely on a public park for all their outdoor amenity needs. Staff have reviewed the ground floor plan and have identified an opportunity to locate the indoor amenity space adjacent to the outdoor amenity space, while still allowing for approximately three units at grade, with private outdoor amenity spaces overlooking the park. There is also an opportunity to provide a direct connection from the lobby to the park, so that all residents of the building can directly access the park.
• With regards to the Stafford streetscape, staff would prefer to see the building frontage activated and the residential character of the street maintained and enhanced by:
• Setting the building back at grade to provide the same setback as 15 Stafford Street, which will produce a continuous street frontage and allow more landscaping opportunities;
• Locating residences at grade fronting Stafford Street, with patio areas adjacent to the sidewalk; and
• Locating the underground parking and loading access points adjacent to each other.
• Urban Forestry staff are concerned about the impact of the building on the trees adjacent to the site at the rear of the heritage building, given the trees canopies extend over the subject site. Urban Forestry are also requiring street trees to be planted along the Stafford St frontage.
• Staff request that a greater mix of unit types and sizes be integrated into the proposal, including bachelor units to increase affordable housing options and three bedroom units to allow more families to live and stay in the area. The current proposal contains one and two bedroom units only.
• Staff requested that consideration be given to the concerns raised by the community about the proposed building's proximity to the north facing balconies on the 15 Stafford Street building, which would limit the enjoyment of those balconies and the windows on the south face of the proposed building which have also raised privacy and overlook concerns.
• Planning and Technical Services staff have advised that onsite visitor parking will be required.
The city has asked that the developer continue to work with the city to revise the proposal, and is waiting for the applicant’s response.
[City Summary End]
NNN agrees with the city's assessment and looks forward to seeing changes to the development that are in line with the city's recommendations.
[City Summary Start]
• We consider the height and massing inappropriate for this location. The proposed height of the building should provide an appropriate transition between the adjacent building at 15 Stafford Street and the heritage listed Edward McNarmara row houses at 857-879 King Street West, and it should also provide an appropriate transition in height between the building to the west at 18 Stafford Street and Stanley Park South.
Our preliminary built form analysis shows that by reducing the height of the building further and stepping back the upper floor levels, a more context appropriate building could be developed that has no incremental shadow impacts on the Park above the 18m as-of-right shadow. This position is consistent with the position staff took regarding the building at 15 Stafford Street, where staff worked with the applicant to ensure there was negligible shadowing of the Park above the as-of-right shadowing.
The recommended changes would also reduce the overall density on the site (currently 9.4 times the lot area), bringing it more in keeping with the density at 15 Stafford Street (5.4 times the lot area) and 18 Stafford Street (6.4 times the lot area). The reduction in density would also help to address the deficiencies in parking and amenity space.
• The Bylaw requires 206m2 of indoor amenity space and 206m2 of outdoor amenity space. Only 76m2 in indoor amenity space is being provided and no outdoor amenity space is being provided. Additionally, indoor amenity space is required to be adjoining or directly accessible to the outdoor amenity space. While staff are usually supportive of minor reductions in amenity space requirements, we believe there is an opportunity to provide some outdoor amenity space onsite for all residents at grade, adjacent to the park as this many residents should not have to rely on a public park for all their outdoor amenity needs. Staff have reviewed the ground floor plan and have identified an opportunity to locate the indoor amenity space adjacent to the outdoor amenity space, while still allowing for approximately three units at grade, with private outdoor amenity spaces overlooking the park. There is also an opportunity to provide a direct connection from the lobby to the park, so that all residents of the building can directly access the park.
• With regards to the Stafford streetscape, staff would prefer to see the building frontage activated and the residential character of the street maintained and enhanced by:
• Setting the building back at grade to provide the same setback as 15 Stafford Street, which will produce a continuous street frontage and allow more landscaping opportunities;
• Locating residences at grade fronting Stafford Street, with patio areas adjacent to the sidewalk; and
• Locating the underground parking and loading access points adjacent to each other.
• Urban Forestry staff are concerned about the impact of the building on the trees adjacent to the site at the rear of the heritage building, given the trees canopies extend over the subject site. Urban Forestry are also requiring street trees to be planted along the Stafford St frontage.
• Staff request that a greater mix of unit types and sizes be integrated into the proposal, including bachelor units to increase affordable housing options and three bedroom units to allow more families to live and stay in the area. The current proposal contains one and two bedroom units only.
• Staff requested that consideration be given to the concerns raised by the community about the proposed building's proximity to the north facing balconies on the 15 Stafford Street building, which would limit the enjoyment of those balconies and the windows on the south face of the proposed building which have also raised privacy and overlook concerns.
• Planning and Technical Services staff have advised that onsite visitor parking will be required.
The city has asked that the developer continue to work with the city to revise the proposal, and is waiting for the applicant’s response.
[City Summary End]
Future of Railway Crossing on Strachan Avenue - Update from Deputy Mayor
Joe Pantalone's office sent out the following update on the Strachan Avenue grade separation. Very good news for the neighbourhood:
[BEGIN]
As your City of Toronto Councillor, I am pleased to inform you that Toronto City Council this week APPROVED the following motions on this matter:
"1. City Council strongly supports the Grade Separation Option which lowers the Georgetown/Milton rail corridor, allowing Strachan Avenue to pass over the rail lines, and
2. City Council direct staff to forward this report to the GO Transit Board requesting that the City Council preferred Strachan Avenue Grade Separation Option be included as part of the Individual Environmental Assessment Study of the Georgetown South Corridor Service Expansion and Airport Transportation Link."
As you may know, Strachan Avenue is presently used by 14,000 vehicular trips daily (more than Dufferin Street but less than Bathurst Street). This traffic is bound to increase as Liberty Village and other nearby areas are further developed.
As you may also know, the number of trains (GO Transit, VIA and cargo) will greatly increase as the Union Station to Pearson Airport Rail Link is built and GO Transit adds more lines. Therefore, the present rail crossing on Strachan Avenue has to be changed so that the rail traffic and the road traffic are separated. A number of technical solutions are possible, (you can see the report through the internet at www.toronto.ca/planning/strachanstudy.htm) but, only our proposal will be urban friendly (the proposal recommended by City Council). This proposal was seen by about 150 people in our community at the Public Meeting on November 5, 2008 at the Trinity Bellwoods Recreation Centre, where it received unanimous approval.
The final decision on this matter that will greatly affect our neighbourhoods, and the City of Toronto, will be made by GO Transit and through the environmental process. We have, as a community, taken the first positive step. We will, however, need to be vigilant to make sure that the final decision to allow the needed transit expansion to take place does so in a way that solves problems for us rather than creates new ones.
In conclusion, I hope you find the news in this update useful. I will, as usual, continue to keep you informed once the next steps become clearer.
Sincerely,
Joe Pantalone
Deputy Mayor
City of Toronto
[END]
[BEGIN]
As your City of Toronto Councillor, I am pleased to inform you that Toronto City Council this week APPROVED the following motions on this matter:
"1. City Council strongly supports the Grade Separation Option which lowers the Georgetown/Milton rail corridor, allowing Strachan Avenue to pass over the rail lines, and
2. City Council direct staff to forward this report to the GO Transit Board requesting that the City Council preferred Strachan Avenue Grade Separation Option be included as part of the Individual Environmental Assessment Study of the Georgetown South Corridor Service Expansion and Airport Transportation Link."
As you may know, Strachan Avenue is presently used by 14,000 vehicular trips daily (more than Dufferin Street but less than Bathurst Street). This traffic is bound to increase as Liberty Village and other nearby areas are further developed.
As you may also know, the number of trains (GO Transit, VIA and cargo) will greatly increase as the Union Station to Pearson Airport Rail Link is built and GO Transit adds more lines. Therefore, the present rail crossing on Strachan Avenue has to be changed so that the rail traffic and the road traffic are separated. A number of technical solutions are possible, (you can see the report through the internet at www.toronto.ca/planning/strachanstudy.htm) but, only our proposal will be urban friendly (the proposal recommended by City Council). This proposal was seen by about 150 people in our community at the Public Meeting on November 5, 2008 at the Trinity Bellwoods Recreation Centre, where it received unanimous approval.
The final decision on this matter that will greatly affect our neighbourhoods, and the City of Toronto, will be made by GO Transit and through the environmental process. We have, as a community, taken the first positive step. We will, however, need to be vigilant to make sure that the final decision to allow the needed transit expansion to take place does so in a way that solves problems for us rather than creates new ones.
In conclusion, I hope you find the news in this update useful. I will, as usual, continue to keep you informed once the next steps become clearer.
Sincerely,
Joe Pantalone
Deputy Mayor
City of Toronto
[END]
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Community Consultation Meeting for Queen West Developments
Active 18 is holding a Community Consultation Meeting about the following projects:
1181 Queen Street West (at Gladstone)
1093 Queen Street West (at Dovercourt)
2 Gladstone Avenue (at Queen, NW corner)
Date: Thursday December 4
Location: Parkdale Public Library, 1303 Queen Street West
Time: 6:30 pm
The City is holding this meeting as part of the formal planning process for these three projects. This is your opportunity to review the plans, ask questions, and register your feedback. A flyer should have arrived in your mailbox from the Councillors office to notify you of this meeting (provided you live in the immediate vicinity of the Queen West Triangle).
Active 18 will be on hand and formally providing feedback on these developments. Please come out and learn about, contribute and engage with your community and neighbours.
Further information about this meeting and background is available at http://active18.org.
From the City's official notice:
These three zoning amendment applications have been appealed to the Ontario Municipal Board. All three were the subject of community consultation meetings in 2007 and earlier in 2008, however the design of these applications has changed since they were originally submitted. The City would like to hear your comments on the new designs and building massing.
1181 Queen Street West (at Gladstone)
1093 Queen Street West (at Dovercourt)
2 Gladstone Avenue (at Queen, NW corner)
Date: Thursday December 4
Location: Parkdale Public Library, 1303 Queen Street West
Time: 6:30 pm
The City is holding this meeting as part of the formal planning process for these three projects. This is your opportunity to review the plans, ask questions, and register your feedback. A flyer should have arrived in your mailbox from the Councillors office to notify you of this meeting (provided you live in the immediate vicinity of the Queen West Triangle).
Active 18 will be on hand and formally providing feedback on these developments. Please come out and learn about, contribute and engage with your community and neighbours.
Further information about this meeting and background is available at http://active18.org.
From the City's official notice:
These three zoning amendment applications have been appealed to the Ontario Municipal Board. All three were the subject of community consultation meetings in 2007 and earlier in 2008, however the design of these applications has changed since they were originally submitted. The City would like to hear your comments on the new designs and building massing.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Walnut Studios Open House Dec 5th
Walnut Studios (83 Walnut Avenue - Walnut and Wellington) is currently being used as Artist Studios, and they're hosting an open house this Friday (December 5th). You can find more info here:
http://walnutstudios.com/open_house.html
http://walnutstudios.com/open_house.html
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Ward 20 Affordable Housing Strategy Report Presentation
To: Ward 20 Residents and Interested Community Members
Councillor Adam Vaughan and the 20 Twenty Urban Consulting team cordially invite you to the final presentation of the "Ward 20 Affordable Housing Strategy Report."
Date: Thursday November 27th 2008
Time: 10:15 am*
Location: Ryerson School of Urban and Regional Planning
105 Bond Street,
3rd Floor. Rm. 312
Toronto, ON
*Presentation starts at 10:30 sharp! Please arrive early.
If you have any further questions please e-mail: ward20.studio@gmail.com
Coffee and Tea will be served.
We hope to see you there!
------
BACKGROUND & a note from Councillor Vaughan
Dear friends,
As you know, sustaining the diversity of housing opportunities for all in Ward 20 is an important priority for me in my role as your Councillor. I know that inclusive, affordable housing for a wide range of individuals and families is also important to you and your neighbours. In order to focus my advocacy efforts on this matter, I have once again partnered with a group of 4th Year Urban and Regional Planning students from Ryerson University to identify opportunities to improve the affordability of housing within Ward 20.
The study will include an inventory of the current housing stock in the ward, policy tools and program models to promote affordable housing and to prepare a demographic analysis of each neighbourhood in the ward.
Many of you have participated in our recent discussions on the subject of affordable housing within your community and your input has been extremely valuable to our team.
I hope you will join us for the students final presentation on their findings.
Councillor Adam Vaughan
Ward 20, Trinity-Spadina
416-392-4044
www.adamvaughan.ca
Councillor Adam Vaughan and the 20 Twenty Urban Consulting team cordially invite you to the final presentation of the "Ward 20 Affordable Housing Strategy Report."
Date: Thursday November 27th 2008
Time: 10:15 am*
Location: Ryerson School of Urban and Regional Planning
105 Bond Street,
3rd Floor. Rm. 312
Toronto, ON
*Presentation starts at 10:30 sharp! Please arrive early.
If you have any further questions please e-mail: ward20.studio@gmail.com
Coffee and Tea will be served.
We hope to see you there!
------
BACKGROUND & a note from Councillor Vaughan
Dear friends,
As you know, sustaining the diversity of housing opportunities for all in Ward 20 is an important priority for me in my role as your Councillor. I know that inclusive, affordable housing for a wide range of individuals and families is also important to you and your neighbours. In order to focus my advocacy efforts on this matter, I have once again partnered with a group of 4th Year Urban and Regional Planning students from Ryerson University to identify opportunities to improve the affordability of housing within Ward 20.
The study will include an inventory of the current housing stock in the ward, policy tools and program models to promote affordable housing and to prepare a demographic analysis of each neighbourhood in the ward.
Many of you have participated in our recent discussions on the subject of affordable housing within your community and your input has been extremely valuable to our team.
I hope you will join us for the students final presentation on their findings.
Councillor Adam Vaughan
Ward 20, Trinity-Spadina
416-392-4044
www.adamvaughan.ca
Friday, November 14, 2008
Community Council Meeting on Strachan Grade Separation on November 18th
Toronto and East York Community Council are reviewing the proposal for the Strachan Grade Separation on November 18th. The report can be found here:
http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2008/te/bgrd/backgroundfile-16917.pdf
The full agenda for the meeting and more info can be found here:
http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2008/te/agendas/2008-11-18-te20-ai.htm
http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2008/te/bgrd/backgroundfile-16917.pdf
The full agenda for the meeting and more info can be found here:
http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2008/te/agendas/2008-11-18-te20-ai.htm
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Raising the Bar: Toronto Summit on Nightlife, Drinking and Violence
Adam Vaughan is hosting an event called Raising the Bar: Toronto Summit on Nightlife, Drinking and Violence.
Feel free to circulate this invitation to neighbours, colleagues or other interested parties. More information is below.
The registration deadline for the event is Friday November 14 at 12 noon.
Raising the Bar: Toronto Summit on Nightlife, Drinking and Violence
Date: Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Location: Montana, 145 John Street, Toronto
Time: 9am to 4pm
Admission: Free, registration is required
Refreshments and lunch will be provided
Themes:
Nightlife - What is Toronto's nightlife like? What kinds of violence and other problems are associated with nightlife in Toronto?
Prevention - A discussion of issues, strategies, experiences and approaches
Speakers include representatives of bar and club customers; owners and operators; security staff; AGCO; the City of Toronto; police and researchers
Those invited to attend include:
- owners, staff and customers of Toronto bars and clubs
- Toronto Police Service
- City of Toronto
- elected public officials
- Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO)
- Toronto Entertainment District Business Improvement Area
- researchers
- health and policy experts
- students
- residents associations
- other interested stakeholders
Sponsored by: CAMH, AGCO, City of Toronto, Montana, Toronto Entertainment District BIA, Toronto Police Service
Registration:
Please provide name, organization, mailing address, e-mail address, telephone, fax and dietary needs
E-mail: michelle_tortolo@camh.net
Fax: 416-595-6033 (Attention: Michelle Tortolo)
For more information, phone 416-535-8501 x 6173
Feel free to circulate this invitation to neighbours, colleagues or other interested parties. More information is below.
The registration deadline for the event is Friday November 14 at 12 noon.
Raising the Bar: Toronto Summit on Nightlife, Drinking and Violence
Date: Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Location: Montana, 145 John Street, Toronto
Time: 9am to 4pm
Admission: Free, registration is required
Refreshments and lunch will be provided
Themes:
Nightlife - What is Toronto's nightlife like? What kinds of violence and other problems are associated with nightlife in Toronto?
Prevention - A discussion of issues, strategies, experiences and approaches
Speakers include representatives of bar and club customers; owners and operators; security staff; AGCO; the City of Toronto; police and researchers
Those invited to attend include:
- owners, staff and customers of Toronto bars and clubs
- Toronto Police Service
- City of Toronto
- elected public officials
- Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO)
- Toronto Entertainment District Business Improvement Area
- researchers
- health and policy experts
- students
- residents associations
- other interested stakeholders
Sponsored by: CAMH, AGCO, City of Toronto, Montana, Toronto Entertainment District BIA, Toronto Police Service
Registration:
Please provide name, organization, mailing address, e-mail address, telephone, fax and dietary needs
E-mail: michelle_tortolo@camh.net
Fax: 416-595-6033 (Attention: Michelle Tortolo)
For more information, phone 416-535-8501 x 6173
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Toronto Western Hospital Community Information Open House
Toronto Western Hospital is hosting a Community Information Open House about their proposed new Krembil Discovery Centre project on November 12 from 7 - 8:30 p.m.
This event will take place in the Toronto Western Hospital Atrium.
All are welcome to come - you can find more info in the flyer here [pdf].
This event will take place in the Toronto Western Hospital Atrium.
All are welcome to come - you can find more info in the flyer here [pdf].
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Book Launch and Walking Tour / Discussion at Fort York
You may be interested in this Toronto Public Space Committee event on Sunday at Fort York
Human River partner event: Coach House Books and Fort York National Historic Site Present:
This Is Not A Reading Series:
HTO Book Launch with walking tour and panel discussion
Sunday, November 9
The Blue Barracks, Fort York National Historic Site Toronto, ON
2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
$5 (or free with purchase of book)
refreshments available
Human River partner event: Coach House Books and Fort York National Historic Site Present:
This Is Not A Reading Series:
HTO Book Launch with walking tour and panel discussion
Sunday, November 9
The Blue Barracks, Fort York National Historic Site Toronto, ON
2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
$5 (or free with purchase of book)
refreshments available
Friday, October 31, 2008
Annual seasonal lighting exchange - Wednesday, November 12, 2008
With the festive season upon us, Toronto will be glowing with lights in no time. Join me at our local neighbourhood Festive Light Exchange on Wednesday, November 12 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Johnny Lombardi Parkette (College St and Grace St) in Little Italy. Exchange two of your old incandescent strings of seasonal lights at the Toronto Hydro-Electric System booth, for one new string of LED lights.
Ten strings of energy-efficient seasonal LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights cost less than ten cents per season and use up to 95 per cent less electricity to operate than traditional strings of incandescent lights. Many people still use traditional incandescent lights, which consume more electricity and cost more money; ten strings of incandescent seasonal lights can cost up to $42 per season to operate.
Switching from incandescent to LED seasonal lighting is a great way to cut back on electricity use. Using LED lights will not only help you conserve electricity, save you money, but also contribute to the City's climate change efforts.
LED lights provide an energy-efficient alternative to traditional seasonal lighting. Not only do they use less electricity, they are tiny and unbreakable; produce virtually no heat in comparison to standard incandescent light sources. They also have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years and instead of suddenly burning out, they gradually fade to darkness.
Please note that this is available to the first 500 families, there is one exchange per family, and the offer is extended to City of Toronto residents only. For more information, please visit: www.torontohydro.com/SLED
Friends of Trinity Bellwoods Fall Community Meeting - Tuesday, November 4, 2008
On Tuesday, November 4, 2008 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at the Trinity Recreation Centre (155 Crawford Street), the Friends of Trinity Bellwoods is having a Fall Community Meeting to solicit input from the community for a five-year planting plan.
For more information, contact greenspace@trinitybellwoods.ca.
Ten strings of energy-efficient seasonal LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights cost less than ten cents per season and use up to 95 per cent less electricity to operate than traditional strings of incandescent lights. Many people still use traditional incandescent lights, which consume more electricity and cost more money; ten strings of incandescent seasonal lights can cost up to $42 per season to operate.
Switching from incandescent to LED seasonal lighting is a great way to cut back on electricity use. Using LED lights will not only help you conserve electricity, save you money, but also contribute to the City's climate change efforts.
LED lights provide an energy-efficient alternative to traditional seasonal lighting. Not only do they use less electricity, they are tiny and unbreakable; produce virtually no heat in comparison to standard incandescent light sources. They also have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years and instead of suddenly burning out, they gradually fade to darkness.
Please note that this is available to the first 500 families, there is one exchange per family, and the offer is extended to City of Toronto residents only. For more information, please visit: www.torontohydro.com/SLED
Friends of Trinity Bellwoods Fall Community Meeting - Tuesday, November 4, 2008
On Tuesday, November 4, 2008 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at the Trinity Recreation Centre (155 Crawford Street), the Friends of Trinity Bellwoods is having a Fall Community Meeting to solicit input from the community for a five-year planting plan.
For more information, contact greenspace@trinitybellwoods.ca.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Meeting About 224 King St. W. November 4th
Councillor Adam Vaughan invites you to a community meeting:
Proposed Development at 224 King St W
Date: Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 PM
Location: Metro Hall, 55 John St., Room 308
Councillor Vaughan would like to hear your feedback about the proposed redevelopment of this site with the construction of a residential condominium tower.
This site is currently a parking lot located immediately west of the Royal Alexandra Theatre.
Please let Councillor Vaughan know if you plan to attend, at 416-392-4044 or councillor_vaughan@toronto.ca.
Proposed Development at 224 King St W
Date: Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 PM
Location: Metro Hall, 55 John St., Room 308
Councillor Vaughan would like to hear your feedback about the proposed redevelopment of this site with the construction of a residential condominium tower.
This site is currently a parking lot located immediately west of the Royal Alexandra Theatre.
Please let Councillor Vaughan know if you plan to attend, at 416-392-4044 or councillor_vaughan@toronto.ca.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Future of Strachan Avenue Public Meeting Nov 5
A meeting regarding the future of Strachan Avenue south of Wellington Street West is being held at Trinity Bellwoods Recreation Centre (155 Crawford St) in the main gym on November 5th.
GO Transit has initiated an Environmental Assessment as part of their plans to set up GO service to Pearson Airport from Union Station, and the city has set up this meeting to review their preferred solution to the increased rail traffic across Strachan - to replace the existing at-grade crossing.
This meeting will also review GO Transit's proposals and provide comments.
This is a key meeting for the area, and all are invited to attend.
For more info, please contact Eric Pedersen (Program Manager with City Planning) at 416-392-1130 or epederse@toronto.ca.
GO Transit has initiated an Environmental Assessment as part of their plans to set up GO service to Pearson Airport from Union Station, and the city has set up this meeting to review their preferred solution to the increased rail traffic across Strachan - to replace the existing at-grade crossing.
This meeting will also review GO Transit's proposals and provide comments.
This is a key meeting for the area, and all are invited to attend.
For more info, please contact Eric Pedersen (Program Manager with City Planning) at 416-392-1130 or epederse@toronto.ca.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
YIMBY Festival at the Gladstone Hotel this Saturday
Do you have a vision of how to make Toronto a better city? Would you like to address issues affecting your neighbourhood to local politicians? Be the voice of change in Toronto. Say Yes In My Backyard!
The 3rd annual YIMBY festival will be held at the Gladstone Hotel on Saturday October 25th, 2008 between 11am to 5pm. Admission is free.
YIMBY is a local, non partisan political event that brings together politicians, business associations, neighbourhood groups and citizens to share ideas on how to make Toronto a better city by promoting healthy community development. It is about actively participating in the city building process and celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of citizen groups.
NNN will be attending - hope to see you there!
http://www.gladstonehotel.com/yimby/
The 3rd annual YIMBY festival will be held at the Gladstone Hotel on Saturday October 25th, 2008 between 11am to 5pm. Admission is free.
YIMBY is a local, non partisan political event that brings together politicians, business associations, neighbourhood groups and citizens to share ideas on how to make Toronto a better city by promoting healthy community development. It is about actively participating in the city building process and celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of citizen groups.
NNN will be attending - hope to see you there!
http://www.gladstonehotel.com/yimby/
Evergreen Thanks the Ontario Trillium Foundation
Evergreen is hosting a thank-you event tomorrow night (Thursday) to celebrate the many shared accomplishments they have achieved thanks to the generous support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The event is at Historic Fort York, the site of Evergreen's newest community garden.
For everyone not familiar, Evergreen is a not-for-profit organization that makes cities more livable. By deepening the connection between people and nature, and empowering Canadians to take a hands-on approach to their urban environments, Evergreen is improving the health of our cities — now and for the future.
They and the Trillium Foundation do great work - check out their websites at:
http://www.evergreen.ca/
http://www.trilliumfoundation.org/
For everyone not familiar, Evergreen is a not-for-profit organization that makes cities more livable. By deepening the connection between people and nature, and empowering Canadians to take a hands-on approach to their urban environments, Evergreen is improving the health of our cities — now and for the future.
They and the Trillium Foundation do great work - check out their websites at:
http://www.evergreen.ca/
http://www.trilliumfoundation.org/
Monday, September 22, 2008
Parc Development Meeting - REMINDER TO COMMENT
Thanks to everyone who made it out to the meeting for the Parc development on Wednesday - it was a great turnout from the community.
The most important next step in this process is to send individual written comments to the city planner:
Jamaica Hewston (jhewsto@toronto.ca)
Please also feel free send your comments to us (NiagaraNN@hotmail.com). Remember, these comments are vital, as they go on the record with the city.
They're also vital because if you don't comment, you're not considered an interested party - and only interested parties can attend city or provincial meetings on the development.
Again: no comments on record = no access to make your voice heard in future.
Even if you didn't attend, your comments / thoughts on the process are important - so please take the time to send your comments!
The most important next step in this process is to send individual written comments to the city planner:
Jamaica Hewston (jhewsto@toronto.ca)
Please also feel free send your comments to us (NiagaraNN@hotmail.com). Remember, these comments are vital, as they go on the record with the city.
They're also vital because if you don't comment, you're not considered an interested party - and only interested parties can attend city or provincial meetings on the development.
Again: no comments on record = no access to make your voice heard in future.
Even if you didn't attend, your comments / thoughts on the process are important - so please take the time to send your comments!
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Proposed Developments in the Wellington Place Neighbourhood
Meeting re: Some Proposed Developments in the Wellington Place Neighbourhood - info below:
Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Time: 6:00 – 8:30 PM
Location: Metro Hall, 55 John St., Room 309
Re: 1. Proposal at the north-east corner of Front and Bathurst
2. 456 Wellington St W (between Portland & Spadina)
3. 525 Adelaide St W (Adelaide & Bathurst) (tentative)
Please let Councilor Vaughan know if you plan to attend, by phone at 416-392-4044 or email at councillor_vaughan@toronto.ca.
Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Time: 6:00 – 8:30 PM
Location: Metro Hall, 55 John St., Room 309
Re: 1. Proposal at the north-east corner of Front and Bathurst
2. 456 Wellington St W (between Portland & Spadina)
3. 525 Adelaide St W (Adelaide & Bathurst) (tentative)
Please let Councilor Vaughan know if you plan to attend, by phone at 416-392-4044 or email at councillor_vaughan@toronto.ca.
Monday, September 15, 2008
25 Stafford ("Parc") Development Meeting Reminder
Reminder that the meeting for the proposed 25 Stafford ("Parc") development is this Wednesday night. Full info below.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday September 17, 2008
6:30pm to 8:30pm
Niagara Community Centre
700 Wellington Street West
(entrance off of Walnut Street, in between tennis courts and pool)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday September 17, 2008
6:30pm to 8:30pm
Niagara Community Centre
700 Wellington Street West
(entrance off of Walnut Street, in between tennis courts and pool)
Thursday, September 4, 2008
25 Stafford ("Parc") Development Community Meeting
A community consultation meeting to discuss Brad Lamb's "Parc" development has been scheduled:
Wednesday September 17, 2008
6:30pm to 8:30pm
Niagara Community Centre
700 Wellington Street West
(entrance off of Walnut Street, in between tennis courts and pool)
We're hoping for a strong community turnout to discuss this key project in our neighbourhood. Please note in your calendar, let your neighbours know, and attend if you can.
Full information here [PDF]: http://www.nnnow.ca/Parc_Community_Meeting_Notice.pdf
Wednesday September 17, 2008
6:30pm to 8:30pm
Niagara Community Centre
700 Wellington Street West
(entrance off of Walnut Street, in between tennis courts and pool)
We're hoping for a strong community turnout to discuss this key project in our neighbourhood. Please note in your calendar, let your neighbours know, and attend if you can.
Full information here [PDF]: http://www.nnnow.ca/Parc_Community_Meeting_Notice.pdf
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Stanley Terrace Update
The work on Stanley Terrace is nearly complete: planting has been done and grass sod put down. We're looking forward to the grass growing, the plants growing, and the area finally meshing into South Stanley Park.
Friday, August 22, 2008
YIMBY Festival!
The YIMBY Festival (Yes In My Backyard) is happening again this year at the Gladstone - check it out here:
http://www.gladstonehotel.com/yimby
Niagara Neighbourhood Now will be attending again this year.
http://www.gladstonehotel.com/yimby
Niagara Neighbourhood Now will be attending again this year.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Councillor Pantalone Neighbourhood Visit July 21st
Our area's Councillor, Joe Pantalone, will be hosting a meet-and-greet session next Monday (July 21st) at the Niagara Community Centre. Official invite here:
http://www.nnnow.ca/Joe_Pantalone_Meeting_July_21.pdf
The Community Centre is at 700 Wellington Street West (SW corner of Wellington and Walnut - building entrance between tennis courts and pool). You can find a map here.
If you're attending, or if you have any specific questions you'd like us to ask the Councillor on your behalf, please contact us at NiagaraNN@hotmail.com.
The more people that attend, the stronger our voice is heard at City Hall, so please make the time to come out.
There are many issues and opportunities in our area, and this is a great chance to have your voice heard.
http://www.nnnow.ca/Joe_Pantalone_Meeting_July_21.pdf
The Community Centre is at 700 Wellington Street West (SW corner of Wellington and Walnut - building entrance between tennis courts and pool). You can find a map here.
If you're attending, or if you have any specific questions you'd like us to ask the Councillor on your behalf, please contact us at NiagaraNN@hotmail.com.
The more people that attend, the stronger our voice is heard at City Hall, so please make the time to come out.
There are many issues and opportunities in our area, and this is a great chance to have your voice heard.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Community Garden in the News
Article on our local community garden in the Globe and Mail:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080712.GARDENS12/TPStory/?query=garrison
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080712.GARDENS12/TPStory/?query=garrison
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Friday, June 27, 2008
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Stanley Park Changes
There are several changes happening in Stanley Park south right now: new sidewalks, some new (to us) picnic tables, and a (long overdue) fix and cleanup of the former Stanley Terrace on the south-west corner of the park.
There's also the Sales Centre for the new Brad Lamb "Parc" development:
Interesting times in the area. More on all of the above to come.
There's also the Sales Centre for the new Brad Lamb "Parc" development:
Interesting times in the area. More on all of the above to come.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Globe Article on Niagara Neighbourhood
Yet another article on the area, this time from the Globe:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080621.MICRO21/TPStory/TPEntertainment/Ontario/
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080621.MICRO21/TPStory/TPEntertainment/Ontario/
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Lighting up Niagara Street
Homeowners living opposite the development have found that new landscape lighting is illuminating their properties as well, and have contacted The Sorbara Group in hopes of working out a fair compromise. The developer has been responding, and we’re hoping for a speedy resolution to the issue.
Have you had an issue with the lighting from this or other developments? Post in the comments and let us know.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Friday, June 13, 2008
Community Updates from Deputy Mayor Joe Pantalone
From Deputy Mayor Joe Pantalone's Newsletter:
Friday, June 13 - Sunday, June 15: The Taste of Little Italy is here again! At
Saturday, June 21:
This festival will be the culmination of many community volunteer hours but there's still room for volunteers for all or part of the festival day. For more information about renting a table for dinner or volunteering go to bigonbloor.com/festival, drop by TheStoreFront at 957 Bloor West, or contact Dougal Bichan, Program Coordinator 416.656.4893 dougal@bigonbloor.com or Sid Bruyn, Production Coordinator 416.530.4152, sid@bigonbloor.com.
Also on Saturday, June 21 is the annual Montrose Avenue Street Party. As in previous years, there will be a full and exciting market in the morning and, throughout the day, activities for children and families all along Montrose Avenue, between Bloor Street and Harbord Street. Runs from 9 am - 12 pm.
Sunday, June 22: Please join me and the Liberty Village community as the Liberty Village Market hosts its official opening on June 22 between 9:00 am - 2:00 pm. The ceremony will take place at 11:00 am. I look forward to seeing you there!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Whatever Happened to Stanley Terrace? Update
Update from our friends at City Hall: Plazacorp (the condo owners) have contracted the landscaping and sidewalk work out for Stanley Terrace, and the contractor is scheduled to start on June 23rd.
Fingers crossed...
Fingers crossed...
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Toronto Cycling Map for 2008
Toronto Cycling Map for 2008 is out - we have a couple of copies if you're interested (niagarann@hotmail.com) or contact City Hall.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Strachan Avenue Grade Separation Design Concept Study Open House
An open invite from the city: anyone who is concerned should attend (we'll be there from the association...)
--------------
You are invited to attend an open house on Tuesday June 17, 2008 at 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the Liberty Market Building, 171 East Liberty Street, 2nd floor Tenant Lounge, to review various options to replace the existing at grade crossing of Strachan Avenue and the GO Georgetown/Milton line. The outcome of this exercise will become part of the City of Toronto’s response and input into GO Transit’s Individual Environmental Assessment Study of the “Georgetown South Corridor Service Expansion and Airport Transportation Link between Lester B. Pearson Airport and Union Station”.
The City of Toronto has retained a consultant team led by du Toit Allsopp Hillier-Urban
Design/Architecture/Landscape Architecture with BA Consulting Group-Transportation Planning and Delcan Corp-Structural and Civil Engineering to develop and assess various opportunities and options to replace the existing at-grade crossing of Strachan Avenue and the GO Georgetown/Milton line. Urban Design, “place making” is an integral component to this study. The objective is to enhance the existing built environment and establish a clear identity for the area with Strachan Avenue as a gateway to the waterfront and has a neighbourhood street including a technically feasible alternative to the at grade rail crossing.
Following a brief presentation at 6:30 pm of Tuesday June 17, the consultant team and city staff will be available to discuss the grade separation options that have been developed in an open house format in order to obtain input from invited community representatives, business interests and public agencies.
--------------
You are invited to attend an open house on Tuesday June 17, 2008 at 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the Liberty Market Building, 171 East Liberty Street, 2nd floor Tenant Lounge, to review various options to replace the existing at grade crossing of Strachan Avenue and the GO Georgetown/Milton line. The outcome of this exercise will become part of the City of Toronto’s response and input into GO Transit’s Individual Environmental Assessment Study of the “Georgetown South Corridor Service Expansion and Airport Transportation Link between Lester B. Pearson Airport and Union Station”.
The City of Toronto has retained a consultant team led by du Toit Allsopp Hillier-Urban
Design/Architecture/Landscape Architecture with BA Consulting Group-Transportation Planning and Delcan Corp-Structural and Civil Engineering to develop and assess various opportunities and options to replace the existing at-grade crossing of Strachan Avenue and the GO Georgetown/Milton line. Urban Design, “place making” is an integral component to this study. The objective is to enhance the existing built environment and establish a clear identity for the area with Strachan Avenue as a gateway to the waterfront and has a neighbourhood street including a technically feasible alternative to the at grade rail crossing.
Following a brief presentation at 6:30 pm of Tuesday June 17, the consultant team and city staff will be available to discuss the grade separation options that have been developed in an open house format in order to obtain input from invited community representatives, business interests and public agencies.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Whatever Happened to Stanley Terrace?
Rumour has it there's a dispute between the condo developers and the city regarding what used to be the south end of Stanley Terrace. They started work, but it's been sitting ugly and unfinished for over a year now.
Whether it's developers, the city, or some other red tape, the end result is an eyesore for everyone.
Let's hope they're not waiting until the so-new-no-one-knew "Parc" development from Brad Lamb.
Friday, June 6, 2008
A Letter from Adam Vaughan - OMB REFORM BEGINS NOW!
June 5, 2008
OPEN LETTER TO ALL WARD 20 RESIDENTS:
OMB REFORM BEGINS NOW!
A significant step was taken today, in the fight to reform, and in fact, eliminate part of the Ontario Municipal Board’s (OMB) functions. At the Planning and Growth Management Committee this morning, City Councillors approved the motion attached below.
This decision starts a process that will eliminate the Ontario Municipal Board as an as appeal body for Committee of Adjustment (CoA) decisions. As your Ward Councillor and as member of the City’s Planning and Growth Management Committee, I have been working my colleague Councillor Peter Milczyn on this idea and I was proud to support the motion which passed unanimously this morning.
Currently, significant development applications that fall just short of requiring an Official Plan Amendment, a formal re-zoning or are deemed to involve only minor amounts of additional density and/or changes to an approved or existing property or design are dealt with by the CoA.
In theory, the CoA was set up to deal with only minor variances such as; extensions to buildings (enlarged porches, rear additions, or the construction of new basement apartments, etc.). In practice, this work still forms the bulk of the cases heard by the CoA. In recent years however, this has begun to change, especially in Ward 20.
Residents now see large projects that have gone through an extensive planning process and careful debate (and occasionally, have even been settled by the OMB) resurface at the CoA with months of a settlement.
The project is restructured, the community is often ambushed, the political and planning process are undermined, and less informed, less regulated and less challenged developments are re-configured and approved in lightening speed.
Today at the Planning and Growth Management Committee, we set in motion a process to put an end to this form of backdoor re-zoning by instructing staff to take advantage of the new powers afforded council in the City of Toronto Act, and to begin work in creating a made-in-Toronto appeal process that will eliminate the OMB as an appeal route for applicants unhappy with the CoA decisions.
CoA decisions would still be open to appeal, but the body that would have carriage of the issue would be appointed by City Council and would operate within guidelines and rules set by Council. This could include instructions to adhere to heritage guidelines, render judgments consistent with Avenue studies and Part II plans. The new appeal body could also be required to interpret all non-planning city by-laws much more literally as the impact of a development is considered and approved.
This is a significant initiative. It heralds and hopefully begins the process of making Toronto’s planning process much more accountable, community-based and sensitive to local conditions and more importantly a more neighbourhood-based process.
There is still a lot of work ahead and as a member of the Planning and Growth Management Committee, I will do all I can to make sure that the concerns of resident groups are front and centre in how the proposal evolves. As it stands now, a working group of committee members and staff will jointly develop a proposal to bring to the community in the fall. At that time, public consultations, financial impacts and responses from all stakeholders and City diviisons will kick-off a public process to bring this idea to life and a introduce a new approach to planning approvals to City Hall.
This initiative won’t solve all of the problems we have with the OMB or the CoA, but it is a serious start and may be the first step in Toronto becoming a self governing city when it comes to planning.
Yours truly,
Adam Vaughan
City Councillor
Ward 20, Trinity-Spadina
MOTION PGM 16.11
Background
The new City of Toronto Act ushered in expanded powers and responsibilities for municipal government in Toronto. One of the significant new powers which were given to the City is the ability to establish our own Appeal Panel for Minor Variance and Consent applications heard by the Committee of Adjustment.
Section 115 of the Act gives the City the ability to establish its own Appeal Panel and appoint members of the Panel according to its own criteria. The only restrictions the Act imposes are that members of the Appeal Panel may not be Members of Council, Committee of Adjustment members, or City staff.
Recommendations:
1. A Councillor-Staff Working Group is struck to develop the structure for an Appeal Panel to hear appeals of Committee of Adjustment decisions on Minor Variance and Consent Applications.
2. The Working Group should consider;- the staff and financial resource requirements for the establishment of such an Appeal Panel- the fee structure for Appeals- the structure and size of the Appeal Panel- qualifications and criteria for appointment of members to the new Appeal Panel
3. The Councillor-Staff Working Group should report to the Planning & Growth Committee by October 2008. The Executive Committee and Budget Committee should be kept apprised of the work of the Working Group so as to be able to plan for the new Appeal Panel’s implementation.
The City of Toronto, residents and generations of municipal politicians have lamented the fact that the Ontario Municipal Board has jurisdiction over appeals of local Planning matters. The Government of the Province of Ontario has offered the City the ability to take over responsibility for a fair, rule-of-law based Appeal Panel for hearing appeals of decisions of the Committee of Adjustment.
It is important that the City of Toronto grasp this opportunity to demonstrate its ability to more fully take control of the Planning process at the municipal level. A successful implementation of this measure would strengthen the City’s calls for wresting more control over the Planning process away from the Ontario Municipal Board.
The new City of Toronto Act ushered in expanded powers and responsibilities for municipal government in Toronto. One of the significant new powers which were given to the City is the ability to establish our own Appeal Panel for Minor Variance and Consent applications heard by the Committee of Adjustment.
Section 115 of the Act gives the City the ability to establish its own Appeal Panel and appoint members of the Panel according to its own criteria. The only restrictions the Act imposes are that members of the Appeal Panel may not be Members of Council, Committee of Adjustment members, or City staff.
OPEN LETTER TO ALL WARD 20 RESIDENTS:
OMB REFORM BEGINS NOW!
A significant step was taken today, in the fight to reform, and in fact, eliminate part of the Ontario Municipal Board’s (OMB) functions. At the Planning and Growth Management Committee this morning, City Councillors approved the motion attached below.
This decision starts a process that will eliminate the Ontario Municipal Board as an as appeal body for Committee of Adjustment (CoA) decisions. As your Ward Councillor and as member of the City’s Planning and Growth Management Committee, I have been working my colleague Councillor Peter Milczyn on this idea and I was proud to support the motion which passed unanimously this morning.
Currently, significant development applications that fall just short of requiring an Official Plan Amendment, a formal re-zoning or are deemed to involve only minor amounts of additional density and/or changes to an approved or existing property or design are dealt with by the CoA.
In theory, the CoA was set up to deal with only minor variances such as; extensions to buildings (enlarged porches, rear additions, or the construction of new basement apartments, etc.). In practice, this work still forms the bulk of the cases heard by the CoA. In recent years however, this has begun to change, especially in Ward 20.
Residents now see large projects that have gone through an extensive planning process and careful debate (and occasionally, have even been settled by the OMB) resurface at the CoA with months of a settlement.
The project is restructured, the community is often ambushed, the political and planning process are undermined, and less informed, less regulated and less challenged developments are re-configured and approved in lightening speed.
Today at the Planning and Growth Management Committee, we set in motion a process to put an end to this form of backdoor re-zoning by instructing staff to take advantage of the new powers afforded council in the City of Toronto Act, and to begin work in creating a made-in-Toronto appeal process that will eliminate the OMB as an appeal route for applicants unhappy with the CoA decisions.
CoA decisions would still be open to appeal, but the body that would have carriage of the issue would be appointed by City Council and would operate within guidelines and rules set by Council. This could include instructions to adhere to heritage guidelines, render judgments consistent with Avenue studies and Part II plans. The new appeal body could also be required to interpret all non-planning city by-laws much more literally as the impact of a development is considered and approved.
This is a significant initiative. It heralds and hopefully begins the process of making Toronto’s planning process much more accountable, community-based and sensitive to local conditions and more importantly a more neighbourhood-based process.
There is still a lot of work ahead and as a member of the Planning and Growth Management Committee, I will do all I can to make sure that the concerns of resident groups are front and centre in how the proposal evolves. As it stands now, a working group of committee members and staff will jointly develop a proposal to bring to the community in the fall. At that time, public consultations, financial impacts and responses from all stakeholders and City diviisons will kick-off a public process to bring this idea to life and a introduce a new approach to planning approvals to City Hall.
This initiative won’t solve all of the problems we have with the OMB or the CoA, but it is a serious start and may be the first step in Toronto becoming a self governing city when it comes to planning.
Yours truly,
Adam Vaughan
City Councillor
Ward 20, Trinity-Spadina
MOTION PGM 16.11
Background
The new City of Toronto Act ushered in expanded powers and responsibilities for municipal government in Toronto. One of the significant new powers which were given to the City is the ability to establish our own Appeal Panel for Minor Variance and Consent applications heard by the Committee of Adjustment.
Section 115 of the Act gives the City the ability to establish its own Appeal Panel and appoint members of the Panel according to its own criteria. The only restrictions the Act imposes are that members of the Appeal Panel may not be Members of Council, Committee of Adjustment members, or City staff.
Recommendations:
1. A Councillor-Staff Working Group is struck to develop the structure for an Appeal Panel to hear appeals of Committee of Adjustment decisions on Minor Variance and Consent Applications.
2. The Working Group should consider;- the staff and financial resource requirements for the establishment of such an Appeal Panel- the fee structure for Appeals- the structure and size of the Appeal Panel- qualifications and criteria for appointment of members to the new Appeal Panel
3. The Councillor-Staff Working Group should report to the Planning & Growth Committee by October 2008. The Executive Committee and Budget Committee should be kept apprised of the work of the Working Group so as to be able to plan for the new Appeal Panel’s implementation.
The City of Toronto, residents and generations of municipal politicians have lamented the fact that the Ontario Municipal Board has jurisdiction over appeals of local Planning matters. The Government of the Province of Ontario has offered the City the ability to take over responsibility for a fair, rule-of-law based Appeal Panel for hearing appeals of decisions of the Committee of Adjustment.
It is important that the City of Toronto grasp this opportunity to demonstrate its ability to more fully take control of the Planning process at the municipal level. A successful implementation of this measure would strengthen the City’s calls for wresting more control over the Planning process away from the Ontario Municipal Board.
The new City of Toronto Act ushered in expanded powers and responsibilities for municipal government in Toronto. One of the significant new powers which were given to the City is the ability to establish our own Appeal Panel for Minor Variance and Consent applications heard by the Committee of Adjustment.
Section 115 of the Act gives the City the ability to establish its own Appeal Panel and appoint members of the Panel according to its own criteria. The only restrictions the Act imposes are that members of the Appeal Panel may not be Members of Council, Committee of Adjustment members, or City staff.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Councillor Adam Vaughan's e-newsletter, May 2008
Councillor Adam Vaughan's most recent newsletter can be found here:
http://www.nnnow.ca/2008-05-30_enewsletter.pdf
http://www.nnnow.ca/2008-05-30_enewsletter.pdf
Friday, May 30, 2008
Help for the Toronto Humane Society
The Toronto Humane Society is in danger of losing their name / designation of "Humane Society" in the upcoming Bill 50. Link to help is here:
http://www.torontohumanesociety.com/newsandevents/council.asp
Text from the Humane Society's website explaining the issue below.
http://www.torontohumanesociety.com/newsandevents/council.asp
Text from the Humane Society's website explaining the issue below.
-----------------------
The Premier is to be congratulated for having promised animal welfare reform, and by all rights you and I ought to be able to support all of Bill 50 which was introduced in the Legislature by Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services Rick Bartolucci on April 3, 2008.
But there is a serious flaw in Bill 50. Section 6 requires the Legislature to strip away the name of any humane society that doesn’t want to be a Member of the Ontario SPCA or the name of any humane society that the Ontario SPCA itself doesn’t want or has expelled.
If The Toronto Humane Society has its name taken away, it will lose its identity of 121 years. Animals will suffer because those needing our services won’t know where to turn. Our income will plummet, depending as it does on name recognition. Severe cuts in services to animals and staff lay-offs will be inevitable.
And for our beloved Toronto Humane Society, the sting of section 6 of Bill 50 is not academic, but real.
On May 10, 2008, through an official by-law, the Ontario SPCA told The Toronto Humane Society to stop Agent Tre Smith and our other cruelty police, our veterinarians, our adoption and other staff, our rescue officers and our volunteers from serving 3/4 of the City of Toronto or face expulsion as an Ontario SPCA Member.
Since The Toronto Humane Society is an Ontario-wide institution, statistically 1/3 of all Ontarians and animals we serve come from now prohibited areas both in Toronto and elsewhere in Ontario. We will be forbidden to serve Etobicoke, Scarborough and North York, and the new Victoria Park Avenue Adoption Centre may wind up padlocked.
It is not as if there are other choices for the animals because there is no humane society in the GTA remotely as busy or serving so many as do our hospital and shelter at 11 River Street. Last year, we gave special care to 12,613 pets, wild animals, and wild birds who because of us – and only because of us – are alive and well today.
It will be heartbreaking to see our work decimated, to see our rescue vehicles garaged, or up for sale, and our staff let go. As supporters, you and I erected the sign in our lobby: “We help all animals”. How can we now say “no” to lost and hurt animals arriving at our door day and night seeking safety and veterinary treatment?
WHEN HE INTRODUCED SECTION 6 OF BILL 50 IN THE LEGISLATURE, MINISTER BARTOLUCCI PROVIDED THE CLOUT TO ENFORCE THESE CUTBACKS. WE MUST STOP SECTION 6 OF BILL 50 FROM EVER BECOMING LAW.
The good news is that section 6 is superfluous to animal protection and won’t be missed. In fact, removing section 6 from Bill 50 will strengthen animal protection.
Cutbacks undermine reform. The strength of Ontario’s animal welfare movement is in providing services locally in a way that reflects the many voices of diverse communities across Ontario. Mr. Bartolucci’s support for curtailed services, and for one voice for animal welfare in Ontario as favoured by the Ontario SPCA, will weaken our movement.
Whether you live across the Province or in Toronto, please join with me and email or write your MPP without delay and ask for the removal of section 6 of Bill 50.
Thank you on behalf of the animals.
Yours truly,
Tim Trow
President
Monday, May 26, 2008
New City Green Program
Toronto has launched a new Green Initiative:
http://www.toronto.ca/livegreen/
http://www.toronto.ca/livegreen/
From the site:
Welcome to Toronto’s one-stop resource for living friendly. Here, you’ll discover hundreds of easy ways you can contribute to a healthier planet. Get inspired. Get motivated. Get a rebate!
Today, take one more small step to living green for a living Toronto.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Joe Pantalone Newsletter
Most recent newsletter from Joe Pantalone's office:
-------------------
Dear Neighbours,
As part of our environmental program, the City of
On June 2nd, Solid Waste Management Services will mail a newsletter explaining the new program and a bin order card to single family homes in the Ward. The order deadline for you to choose your new Garbage Bin is June 19th. You will be offered the choice of four sizes of Garbage Bins and there will be a corresponding fee for each size of Garbage Bin. Delivery of the new Garbage Bins will start in late August 2008 in Ward 19.
In order to help you really understand the Garbage Bin program and ask any questions you may have, I encourage you to visit one of the following information opportunities organized in our community:
- On
- On
As for the new blue bins, the new system will work perfectly well for 80% of
If you need support with either or both of these programs, please do not hesitate to contact me.
And finally, good news for those residents in the City of
I strongly believe that by working together we can and will make
Sincerely,
Joe Pantalone
Deputy Mayor
City of
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
FREE COMPOST FOR WARD 20!
(From Councillor Adam Vaughan)
Spring has sprung and we are ready to deliver your annual supply of free compost.
This year compost will be available for pick up at 6 locations on Tuesday May 20th and Wednesday May 21st. You can bring your buckets, barrels and shovels to pick up your compost after 3 pm, at these locations:
TUESDAY MAY 20th
Vermont Square Park
819 Palmerston Ave
(Bathurst and Dupont area)
819 Palmerston Ave
(Bathurst and Dupont area)
Jean Sibelius Square Park
50 Kendal Ave (at Bernard)
(Annex area)
50 Kendal Ave (at Bernard)
(Annex area)
Margaret Fairley Parkette
Brunswick Ave and Ulster St
(Harbord Village area)
Brunswick Ave and Ulster St
(Harbord Village area)
*****
WEDNESDAY MAY 21st
Lillian H. Smith Library Park
239 College Street (at Huron)
(park behind library)
239 College Street (at Huron)
(park behind library)
Bellevue Square Park
Augusta Ave north of Dundas St
(Kensington Market area)
Augusta Ave north of Dundas St
(Kensington Market area)
Little Norway Park
South-west corner of Queens Quay and Bathurst
(Bathurst Quay area)
South-west corner of Queens Quay and Bathurst
(Bathurst Quay area)
*****
Free compost is also being delivered for community gardens at Toronto Community Housing locations at 250 Davenport and Hydro Block.
Each location will receive 13 tonnes of compost.
Happy gardening!
Neighbourhood Architecture Event May 28th
As part of this year's Festival of Architectural and Design (fAd) event in Toronto, HOK, a local planning, architecture and design studio, is hosting and facilitating a community workshop to envision the urban environment of its King and Bathurst neighborhood, bordered by Strachan, Spadina, Queen and Front Streets.
Residents, business owners and others involved in the community are invited to explore the issues impacting the future of their community, and how they relate to specific physical aspects of their neighborhood.
HOK believes that healthy, sustainable communities are created by small incremental change at a grassroots level. Share your thoughts about what issues you see in this neighbourhood. What needs to change and why?
If you are interested in participating in this event, please complete the pre-registration form at www.hokevents.ca/king. Participants must be a resident, a business owner and/or involved in the King and Bathurst community. Spaces are limited. You will be contacted by HOK to confirm attendance.
If you have any questions, please contact Darlyn Dimayuga at 416-342-7053 or via email at darlyn.dimayuga@hok.com .
Check out their blog at:http://hokevents.typepad.com/king_and_bathurst/
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
More Recycling Bin Info from Councillor Adam Vaughan
Our neighbouring Councillor, Adam Vaughan, has sent out the following information to his constituents. Our Councillor for the Niagara Neighbourhood is Joe Pantalone - his office can be reached at 416-392-4009 or via email at councillor_pantalone@toronto.ca.
--------
Residents of single-family homes in Ward 20 are now starting to receive their new recycling bins. Many are also discovering that the bins do not fit well on their property. If your bin is too large for your property, there are a few options that the city can provide to try and fit your property’s physical requirements.
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Residents of single-family homes in Ward 20 are now starting to receive their new recycling bins. Many are also discovering that the bins do not fit well on their property. If your bin is too large for your property, there are a few options that the city can provide to try and fit your property’s physical requirements.
City staff are offering site visits to residents to help identify the approach that will work best for each property. This includes:
- trading your bin for a smaller bin
- dual use (garbage & recycling) bins
- the possibility of using clear plastic bags to put out recycling for pickup
- dual use (garbage & recycling) bins
- the possibility of using clear plastic bags to put out recycling for pickup
To request a site visit to determine alternate options that would work best for you, please contact (Joe Pantalone's office for the Niagara Neighbourhood).
Please provide us your name, address and phone number to request a site visit to determine alternate options that would work best for you. Residents can also call 416-392-BINS (2467) however the line is extremely busy due to the bin roll-out and may have long waiting times. Please be advised that there is currently a three-week wait to receive a site visit.
If your neighbours have received their bins but you have not, this may because of different order sizes, as deliveries are taking place by size. Until you receive your new bin, you can continue to use your old blue and grey bins. You can also contact our office via e-mail or phone to check in on your bin delivery.
Friday, May 2, 2008
New Recycling Bins
Niagara Neighbourhood Now fully supports the City of Toronto’s push to increase recycling. We believe that recycling is not only vital in building a more sustainable and responsible city, but that it’s part of a wider movement to make Toronto a leader in environmental action.
Unfortunately, we do not believe the new larger bins proposed by the city are the best option: they do not take the unique living arrangements of those who live downtown into consideration.
In this “city of neighbourhoods” we live close to our neighbours: we have small spaces and limited storage that can’t always accommodate these new larger bins. They require awkward storage (dragging bins through houses) or unattractive containers littering our property.
Niagara Neighbourhood Now’s position is that these bins should be one of several choices rather than the only choice. We should be able to choose between the new larger bins, the current bins, or clear bags – whichever homeowners feel best suits their situation.
Toronto homeowners and Niagara Neighbourhood Now want to do their part for recycling and the environment, and we believe the City should do their part by giving homeowners the opportunity to participate in as many ways as possible.
Unfortunately, we do not believe the new larger bins proposed by the city are the best option: they do not take the unique living arrangements of those who live downtown into consideration.
In this “city of neighbourhoods” we live close to our neighbours: we have small spaces and limited storage that can’t always accommodate these new larger bins. They require awkward storage (dragging bins through houses) or unattractive containers littering our property.
Niagara Neighbourhood Now’s position is that these bins should be one of several choices rather than the only choice. We should be able to choose between the new larger bins, the current bins, or clear bags – whichever homeowners feel best suits their situation.
Toronto homeowners and Niagara Neighbourhood Now want to do their part for recycling and the environment, and we believe the City should do their part by giving homeowners the opportunity to participate in as many ways as possible.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Queen Street West Fire
Niagara Neighborhood Now would like to extend our deepest sympathies to those who have lost homes, businesses, and memories as a result of the tragic fire on Queen West this week.
The buildings and the history they held were an irreplaceable part of Toronto’s past as well as Queen West’s vibrant culture, and the loss to both the neighbourhood and to the city is immeasurable.
While what has been lost can never be replaced, we’re confident that Queen West will recover from this heartbreak and continue to thrive as a vital part of this great city.
Sincerely,
Niagara Neighbourhood Now
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Media Advisory
February 21, 2008
Queen Street Fire Fund established to assist people affected by fire
In response to the major fire on Queen Street yesterday, a trust fund has been established to collect donations to assist residents who have been affected by the fire. Donations can be made to the Queen Street Fire Fund at all Scotiabank locations across the city effective tomorrow. "There has been an outpouring of support to help people affected by the fire, from people in the neighbourhood and across the city," said Councillor Adam Vaughan (Ward 20, Trinity-Spadina). "I would like to offer my sincere thanks to everyone who has offered assistance to these residents in their time of need."
For further information, please contact:
Councillor Adam Vaughan, 416-392-4044
Ward 20 - Trinity Spadina
The buildings and the history they held were an irreplaceable part of Toronto’s past as well as Queen West’s vibrant culture, and the loss to both the neighbourhood and to the city is immeasurable.
While what has been lost can never be replaced, we’re confident that Queen West will recover from this heartbreak and continue to thrive as a vital part of this great city.
Sincerely,
Niagara Neighbourhood Now
-------------------------
Media Advisory
February 21, 2008
Queen Street Fire Fund established to assist people affected by fire
In response to the major fire on Queen Street yesterday, a trust fund has been established to collect donations to assist residents who have been affected by the fire. Donations can be made to the Queen Street Fire Fund at all Scotiabank locations across the city effective tomorrow. "There has been an outpouring of support to help people affected by the fire, from people in the neighbourhood and across the city," said Councillor Adam Vaughan (Ward 20, Trinity-Spadina). "I would like to offer my sincere thanks to everyone who has offered assistance to these residents in their time of need."
For further information, please contact:
Councillor Adam Vaughan, 416-392-4044
Ward 20 - Trinity Spadina
Toxicity Information for the GTA
The Toronto Environmental Alliance has an information clearing house on environmental concerns in the GTA.
Queen West Safety Issues
A recent article published in The Toronto Star highlighted the concerns of both residents and business owners in the Queen West area about rising crime rates and the related safety issues. The article follows the stabbing death of St. Catherines resident Ross Hammond near Trinity-Bellwoods Park and ensuing media focus on panhandling. To see the original article, letters to the editor, and the response from Deputy Mayor Joe Pantalone, click on the links below:
- The Toronto Star - Queen West an area in decline
- Letter to the Editor - Councillor has been missing in action
- Letter to the Editor - Deputy Mayor 'sets the record straight'
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