200 University Avenue - Proposed Designation By-Law under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act - Consideration of Objection

Staff are recommending an amendment in response to this objection in order to clarify the Statement of Significance as adopted by City Council. Located on the southwest corner of Richmond Street West and University Avenue, the property at 200 University Avenue contains the Sun Life Building constructed in 1958-1961 and designed by John C. Parkin of John B. Parkin Associates, Canada's largest architectural firm at the time. The subject property is among the earliest examples of a modernist high rise building in Toronto to be entirely clad in metal and glass, with its glass and metal curtain wall set back from exposed perimeter support columns. As the first tall building to successfully challenge the early 20th century by-laws governing University Avenue from its prominent position at the point at which University Avenue becomes a grand ceremonial boulevard, the property is historically linked to the post-war phase of development along University Avenue. The property was listed on the City of Toronto's Heritage Register in 1991. In June 2019, the More Homes, More Choice Act, 2019 (Bill 108) received Royal Assent. Schedule 11 of this Act included amendments to the Ontario Heritage Act which included amendments to the listing and designation processes. The Bill 108 Amendments to the Act came into force on July 1, 2021. City Council has until August 3, 2023, 90 days from the date of the end of the objection period, to make a decision on this objection as per the timeline under the Act. Staff have reviewed the objections raised on behalf of the property owner and remain of the opinion that this property holds cultural heritage value or interest. The property meets Ontario Regulation 9/06, the criteria prescribed for municipal designation under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act under all three categories of design and physical, historical and associative, and contextual values. Staff have re-examined the Statement of Significance (Reasons for Designation) for the property at 200 University Avenue, however, and recommend revision to provide clarification on the existing door types and use of granite on the east and west sides of the property. As the property has cultural heritage value or interest and meets the prescribed criteria pursuant to Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, staff are of the opinion that this property should be designated. Designation enables City Council to review proposed alterations for the property, enforce heritage property standards and maintenance, and refuse demolition.

2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to introduce the necessary Bills in City Council designating the property at 200 University Avenue under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act.