114 and 114R Baldwin Street and 75 Cecil Street - Request for City Solicitor to Attend at the Toronto Local Appeal Body - by Councillor Dianne Saxe, seconded by Councillor Paula Fletcher

The applicant seeks to construct a four-storey townhouse complex containing three buildings, for a total of 10 residential dwelling units. On February 4, 2025, the Toronto and East York District Panel of the Committee of Adjustment refused to grant the requested minor variances (Decision in Attachment 1). The applicant has appealed the refusal to the Toronto Local Appeal Body. In its report dated January 17, 2025, City Planning Staff opined that the number of residential buildings and proposed massing is not acceptable. The report states further concerns regarding infrastructure servicing, garbage pick-up, pedestrian safety and accessibility for emergency services. As a result, City Planning Staff recommended that the minor variance application be refused (Staff Report in Attachment 2). This motion will authorize and direct the City Solicitor to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body, along with appropriate City staff, in order to oppose the Appeal. This Motion will also authorize the City Solicitor to resolve the matter on behalf of the City in her discretion. This motion is time sensitive and urgent as the City Solicitor requires instructions to obtain party status in the Appeal and subsequently attend the hearing in opposition to the Appeal.

2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attempt to negotiate a resolution of the Appeal of the decision in Application A0948/24TEY, respecting 114 and 114R Baldwin Street and 75 Cecil Street and to resolve the matter on behalf of the City at the City Solicitor's discretion in consultation with the Ward Councillor and the Director of Community Planning, Toronto East York District.