Lots happening around the city and in our community. Wanted to provide you with some information and updates. Please see executive summaries below and let me know if you want more information on any of the topics covered here.
Reimagine Yonge Update:
Thanks for all of those that took the time to complete the survey. We had over 85% response rate from the membership, clearly people are interested in this topic.
I've attached the summary report which was provided to John Fillion and John Tory's offices.
I, along with 8 other neighbourhood association representatives had the opportunity to meet with city staff and the mayor's office. I was surprised to see how aligned all the representatives where with respect to their stance on this topic (almost mirrored the results from our survey).
A motion will be put forward in November, if it does not have support from the city councilors we will have further delays for any significant investment on our stretch of Yonge St. I will keep you posted as I get updates from John's office and / or the mayor's office.
Development Appeal - Sheppard Ave West:
In May, the Sheppard Lansing Secondary Plan was appealed by a group of land speculators who where looking to develop the stretch West of Beecroft to Welbeck Rd (near Senlac). This group was looking to develop well beyond the city approved plan. The Local Planning Appeals Tribunal (aka OMB) recently ruled against their appeal.
While this doesn't directly impact our community, it is a good example of how a strong neighbourhood association, working effectively with the city can combat land speculation which often benefits a few at the expense of the community.
Parkview Neighbourhood Garden (PNG):
You may recall that this garden was in a state of disrepair last year. The WCRA, with the help of a few members, engaged with the group this past spring in an effort to help support the small group of volunteers that where overwhelmed with the work managing this parcel of land.
I am happy to report that our efforts have helped. Through the use of social media and personal networking, the PNG were able to recruit many more people this year. In addition, the city provided some additional support after our group engaged with the councilor's office. Thanks to all those who helped with this initative and a special thanks to the core PNG volunteer group for their continued efforts!
City Parks Department:
Councilor Fillion's office, in coordination with the City Parks department will be looking into enhancements at the Mitchell Field, Willowdale Park and Doris-Norton Park locations. The councilor's office has been in contact with me on this matter and will reach out when they are looking for public feedback. If you have any thoughts on this matter, feel free to send me an email.
For those interested in opportunities to play some pick-up hockey this winter, Mitchell Field Area has time slots once a week (see attached link). In addition to supporting local outdoor rinks, I will be looking to get more time slots at Mitchell Field. So please let me know if you have children interested and I will keep you posted. It would be a nice community event if we could coordinate activities like this so please let me know if you have any other thoughts on how we can bring the neighbourhood together.
Finally, the city is seeking input from neighbourhood associations. I've attached the document for your review.
If you have an event coming up or would like to coordinate a social event please let us know.
Wishing you all the best!
Stephen,
on behalf of WCRA