Addressing Vacant Storefronts - by Councillor Josh Matlow, seconded by Councillor Paula Fletcher

These vacant storefronts create several issues - an uglier, less vibrant streetscape, more crime and public safety issues, and reduced economic activity in our city. Staff have previously been directed through 2020.MM16.9 to explore the feasibility of implementing a vacant storefront tax. Building on this previous direction, this motion includes a wider request for staff to explore policy levers to address vacant commercial spaces in Toronto, and to beautify and improving existing vacant main street storefronts.

2. City Council request the Chief Building Official and Executive Director, Toronto Building and the Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards to report on existing property standards applicable to vacant properties, and steps taken by staff to enforce them, and the efficacy of implementing tougher standards. 3. City Council request the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture and the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning, to review opportunities to animate and beautify vacant storefronts in collaboration with local Business Improvement Areas and Resident Associations, and to report on the feasibility of a tax reduction program for property owners that host pop-ups and art installations.