Toronto City Council
The full agenda, as filed
All 67 items in the clerk’s order. Each carries the city’s own words: the staff recommendation, what the body decided, and its status. Nothing below is written by us.
Items 51 to 67 of 67Show 2550100all
MM18.21adopted
This motion requests that City staff engage directly with Tennis Canada regarding the feasibility of developing a year-round tennis facility. Tennis Canada is seeking to donate up to $2 million towards community tennis bubbles and are seeking to partner with the City of Toronto through Parks, Forestry and Recreation. Demand for tennis has been high in recent years. The Parks and Recreation Facilities Master Plan identifies the need for up to 20 new courts over the next 20 years. There are over 600 outdoor tennis courts within 185 Toronto parks. The City operates 339 public courts that are free and available on a first come, first served basis. In addition, the City has 263 club courts that are currently permitted by 61 not-for-profit community tennis clubs, which offer a range of affordable opportunities for members. The management of club courts is guided by the City's Policy for Outdoor Community Tennis Club Operations. There are also dozens of private tennis clubs within Toronto. Many of the City's Community Tennis Clubs are currently managing large waitlists and multiple third-party operators have identified the need for year-round facilities. Community Tennis Clubs are the primary delivery mechanism for organized tennis on City courts. They do not operate in the winter and do not have bubbles. Sports bubbles are becoming more common in Toronto as demand rises for year-round tennis facilities; currently, the City has agreements with operators of six tennis bubbles. Installation of bubbles allows the City's assets to be maximized, increasing access to residents. Existing tennis and sports field bubbles are well used, and considerable interest has been expressed for additional year-round sport opportunities. The opportunity to work directly with Tennis Canada presents a chance to consider expanding the number of sport bubbles available to residents and user groups by maximizing City resources and accommodating additional year-round tennis facilities. Any partnerships considered for the operation of new year-round tennis bubbles would emphasize affordable community access. Staff should engage directly with Tennis Canada in detailed conversations to determine if a potential partnership is viable. Any partnership must deliver high-quality and affordable recreational tennis opportunities for the community and look to promote equity in access to sport.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council request the General Manager, Parks, Forestry, and Recreation, in consultation with the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management, to explore the feasibility of developing an accessible and affordable year-round tennis facility with Tennis Canada, and to identify appropriate sites and locations to advance delivery of such a facility, to capitalize on opportunities to collaborate with Tennis Canada's private donor capital towards the court in the sum of $2 million. 2. City Council request the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, in consultation with the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management, and in consultation with the Ward Councillor(s), to report back by the fourth quarter of 2024 on viable sites along with an implementation strategy, to City Council through the Infrastructure and Environment Committee. 3. City Council request that General Manager, Parks, Forestry, and Recreation, in consultation with the Executive Director Corporate Real Estate Management, negotiate appropriate community access as part of any terms of any arrangement with Tennis Canada resulting from Part 1 or 2 above, in close collaboration with the appropriate Ward Councillor(s) and after adequate community consultation processes have been undertaken.
Staff recommendation as filed
1. City Council request the General Manager, Parks, Forestry, and Recreation, in consultation with the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management, to explore the feasibility of developing an accessible and affordable year-round tennis facility with Tennis Canada, and to identify appropriate sites and locations to advance delivery of such a facility, to capitalize on opportunities to collaborate with Tennis Canada's private donor capital towards the court in the sum of $2 million. 2. City Council request the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, in consultation with the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management, and in consultation with the Ward Councillor(s), to report back by the fourth quarter of 2024 on viable sites along with an implementation strategy, to City Council through the Infrastructure and Environment Committee. 3. City Council request that General Manager, Parks, Forestry, and Recreation, in consultation with the Executive Director Corporate Real Estate Management, negotiate appropriate community access as part of any terms of any arrangement with Tennis Canada resulting from Recommendation 1 or 2, in close collaboration with the appropriate Ward Councillor(s) and after adequate community consultation processes have been undertaken.
MM18.22amended
At its December 13, 14, and 15, 2023 meeting, City Council, through item 2023.MM13.21 Supporting Women's Professional Soccer in Toronto, expressed its support for the establishment of a professional women's sports league in Toronto and its commitment to championing gender equity in sport. City Council further directed staff in Parks, Forestry and Recreation, and the FIFA World Cup 2026 Toronto Secretariat, to explore opportunities to support the establishment of a professional women's soccer team in Toronto, including helping identify potential sites, and to advance growing the participation of women in sport as a key legacy opportunity of hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2026 in Toronto. Two sites are most suitable based on preliminary staff review - the future artificial turf field and clubhouse at Centennial Park, and Lamport Stadium. The City should advance work on both these sites to ensure the City is maximizing the potential of our facilities and supporting opportunities for women in sport. Centennial Park provides an excellent opportunity for a legacy partnership and could serve as a practice centre for Association Football Club Toronto. Direct exploration and negotiations with the group should be undertaken to determine the feasibility of a partnership, reporting back to City Council on the terms of any potential agreement for the long-term programming of the space. Continued community use of the facilities must be embedded as a requirement, along with appropriate cost sharing. An important recreational amenity in Liberty Village, Lamport Stadium serves a high-growth urban neighbourhood. As one of few premier class, all-season multipurpose fields in the Downtown that is accessible by transit, the stadium and surrounding greenspace currently serve community users and a variety of sports teams. A seasonal winter bubble is also operated under third party agreement, providing additional community recreation in the winter months. The site provides important community access to recreation opportunities and must continue to do so in the future. Unfortunately, these recreational opportunities are at risk, as the building continues to age and fall into disrepair. Lamport Stadium would provide an excellent and exciting venue for Toronto Association Football Club, while delivering opportunities for animation and continued community use, but requires significant capital investment and is not fully usable in its current state. The City should seek proposals for an anchor tenant for Lamport Stadium, requiring the third party to bring the stadium to modern standards, protecting community access to recreational opportunities, and dedicating sufficient access to women's professional sport to use as a game day facility. Any proposal process for Lamport Stadium should embed and reflect the objectives and goals of the Liberty Village Public Realm Study and look to improve both stadium and surrounding parkland areas. Staff should report back on the results to City Council.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council direct the General Manager, Parks, Forestry, and Recreation, in consultation with the Executive Director, FIFA World Cup 2026 Toronto Secretariat and the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management, to negotiate agreement terms with Association Football Club Toronto, for the use of the future Centennial Park soccer field and adjacent fieldhouse following FIFA 2026, seeking input from relevant stakeholders on impacts of potential Association Football Club Toronto use of the site, ensuring future community access to the recreational amenities, and report back to City Council on recommended terms for an agreement. 2. City Council request the General Manager, Parks, Forestry, and Recreation, and the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management, in consultation with the Chief Executive Officer, CreateTO, to seek proposals to select and enter negotiations for a strategic operating tenant for Lamport Stadium, seeking capital investment necessary to improve the stadium, field conditions, to bring the facility into a state of good repair, while ensuring community access to recreation opportunities is maintained, embedding protections for professional women's sports teams, including soccer, to use the site as a game-day location, and respecting the existing agreement between the City and Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment for the operation of a seasonal winter sports bubble, and to report back to City Council on the results; such report should also: a. examine how community benefits can be pursued at Lamport Stadium as a part of any redevelopment, in consultation with the Executive Director, Social Development, Finance and Administration; and b. detail alignment of any potential investment and leasing with the Liberty Village Public Realm Strategy, and upcoming regeneration study, in consultation with the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning. 3. City Council request the General Manager, Parks, Forestry, and Recreation, to negotiate equitable public and community access as part of any terms for third-party use at Centennial Park and/or Lamport Stadium resulting from Part 1 or 2 above, in close collaboration with the Ward Councillor.
Staff recommendation as filed
Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik, seconded by Councillor Jaye Robinson, recommends that: 1. City Council direct the General Manager, Parks, Forestry, and Recreation, in consultation with the Executive Director, FIFA World Cup 2026 Toronto Secretariat and the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management, to negotiate agreement terms with Association Football Club Toronto, in a form satisfactory to the City Solicitor, for the use of the future Centennial Park soccer field and adjacent fieldhouse following FIFA 2026, ensuring future community access to the recreational amenities, and report back to City Council on recommended terms for an agreement. 2. City Council request the General Manager, Parks, Forestry, and Recreation and the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management, in consultation with the Chief Executive Officer, CreateTO, to seek proposals to select and enter negotiations for a strategic operating tenant for Lamport Stadium, seeking capital investment necessary to improve the stadium, field conditions, to bring the facility into a state of good repair, while ensuring community access to recreation opportunities is maintained, embedding protections for professional women's sports teams, including soccer, to use the site as a game-day location, and respecting the existing agreement between the City and Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment for the operation of a seasonal winter sports bubble, and to report back to City Council on the results; such report should also: a. examine how community benefits can be pursued at Lamport Stadium as a part of any redevelopment, in consultation with the Executive Director, Social Development, Finance, and Administration; and b. detail alignment of any potential investment and leasing with the Liberty Village Public Realm Strategy, and upcoming regeneration study, in consultation with the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning. 3. City Council request the General Manager, Parks, Forestry, and Recreation to negotiate equitable public and community access as part of any terms for third-party use at Centennial Park and/or Lamport Stadium resulting from recommendation 1 or 2, in close collaboration with the Ward Councillor.
MM18.23adopted
The lands at 57-77 Wade are being re-developed for the purpose of constructing a 7-storey commercial office building. The project is well underway having been re-zoned and having received initial Notice of Approval Conditions for Site Plan Control on June 18, 2020, with an amendment on September 23, 2021. One of the conditions related to the Notice of Approval Conditions was the conveyance of a 3-metre sub-strata piece of land surrounding the Toronto Transit Commission tunnel which is approximately 9 metres below grade. The Developer has agreed to provide the lands as per the Notice of Approval Conditions. However, City policy is that it cannot accept land that has not been tested and shown to be free of environmental contaminants. Unfortunately, the sub-strata land cannot safely be tested as it is within the buffer zone of the Toronto Transit Commission tunnel, and as such the Toronto Transit Commission does not permit any digging even for testing purposes deeper than 6 metres, which is 4-5 meters shy from the top of the Toronto Transit Commission tunnel. To protect the tunnel structure and safety of the Toronto Transit Commission patrons, Toronto Transit Commission will not permit testing in the substrata fee simple area and therefore was not subject to physical sampling in the usual manner. Therefore, relief from the City's Conveyance Policy is being sought.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council exempt the stratified parcel of fee simple land at 55-77 Wade Avenue, Toronto, designated as Parts 14, 15, 16 and 17 and a negative support easement through Parts 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 on Plan 66R-31574 (the "Conveyance Lands"), required to be conveyed to the City as a condition of development approval pursuant to the City of Toronto Act, 2006, by 77 WADE LP, by its general partner, 77 WADE GP INC., (the "Developer") from the application of the Policy for Accepting Potentially Contaminated Lands (the "Policy"), subject to the recommendations provided by the City's Peer Reviewer, PGL Environmental Consultants and including such other terms and conditions as deemed appropriate by the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management (the "Executive Director"), and in a form satisfactory to the City Solicitor. 2. City Council authorize the conveyance of the Conveyance Lands defined in Part 1 above, even though the Phase Two Environmental Site Assessment was limited based on the presence of the underlying Toronto Transit Commission infrastructure which restricted the investigation and the ability to meet the City's Conveyance Policy. 3. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management, or their designate, to enter into an indemnity agreement whereby the Developer assumes all responsibility and indemnifies the City from any and all liability associated with the acceptance of the Conveyance Lands defined in Part 1 above.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Alejandra Bravo, seconded by Councillor Paula Fletcher, recommends that: 1. City Council exempt the stratified parcel of fee simple land at 55-77 Wade Avenue, Toronto, designated as Parts 14, 15, 16 and 17 and a negative support easement through Parts 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 on Plan 66R-31574 (the "Conveyance Lands"), required to be conveyed to the City as a condition of development approval pursuant to the City of Toronto Act , 2006, by 77 WADE LP, by its general partner, 77 WADE GP INC. (the "Developer") from the application of the Policy for Accepting Potentially Contaminated Lands (the "Policy"), subject to the recommendations provided by the City's Peer Reviewer, PGL Environmental Consultants and including such other terms and conditions as deemed appropriate by the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management (the "Executive Director"), and in a form satisfactory to the City Solicitor. 2. City Council authorize the conveyance of the Conveyance Lands defined in Recommendation 1 above, even though the Phase Two Environmental Site Assessment was limited based on the presence of the underlying Toronto Transit Commission infrastructure which restricted the investigation and the ability to meet the City's Conveyance Policy. 3. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management, or their designate, to enter into an indemnity agreement whereby the Developer assumes all responsibility and indemnifies the City from any and all liability associated with the acceptance of the Conveyance Lands defined in Recommendation 1.
MM18.24adopted
The vibrancy of Toronto's main streets are dependent upon successful local businesses. Small restaurant, bookstore, clothing shop, and cafe owners give our neighbourhoods their unique character. Unfortunately, too many local businesses are under threat from unfair commercial rent hikes. Unlike residential rentals built before 2018, there is no rent control for small business owners. This lack of protection has resulted in neighbourhoods losing far too many of their favourite stores and restaurants in favour of chains that can afford higher rent. According to data from the Better Way Alliance, an Ontario-based network of employers, in Toronto, commercial retail rent increased by 20 percent between 2021-2023. This places significant pressure on many businesses, forcing many to shut down due to unsustainable increases as high as 20-100 percent. Based on a survey conducted by the Better Way Alliance, over half respondents indicated that rent represented more than 60 percent of their overall expenses. Beyond inflation commercial rent hikes not only affect current business owners but discourage new entrepreneurs from starting a business in the first place. Bar and restaurant owners, in particular, routinely invest hundreds of thousands of dollars in commercial kitchens, exhausts, fridges, and furnishings before they even open. Upon closure, they are able to recoup only a fraction of that initial cost. The prospect of severe rent hikes after the initial lease term threatens to put a chill on new businesses that contribute to our economy and quality of life. Out of control rent hikes can also lead to vacant store fronts. These dead spots in our communities are a blight and can drag down entire sections of local mainstreets. New York State is currently considering comprehensive commercial rent control legislation, and countries such as France operate already provide far greater power and protections to commercial tenants, including rent control tied to the consumer price index. This motion requests the government of Ontario to protect and encourage small, locally-owned businesses by implementing rent control and providing further surety through a dispute resolution tribunal and standardized leases.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council request the Government of Ontario to: a. implement commercial rent control for small, locally-owned businesses; b. establish a dispute resolution tribunal for commercial tenants and landlords; and c. develop and require standardized leases for commercial tenants and landlords.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Josh Matlow, seconded by Councillor Mike Colle recommends that: 1. City Council request the Government of Ontario to: a. implement commercial rent control for small, locally-owned businesses; b. establish a dispute resolution tribunal for commercial tenants and landlords; and c. develop and require standardized leases for commercial tenants and landlords.
MM18.25adopted
The City launched the Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition program in November 2021 to enable the non-profit community housing sector to acquire and protect at-risk market rental housing. Under Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition, one of the eligibility requirements is that the building to be purchased contain between six to sixty units as privately-owned residential or mixed used properties with a focus on multi-tenant homes or low-rise apartment buildings. In April 2022, City Council approved funding in the amount of up to $500,000.00 from the Capital Revolving Reserve Fund for Affordable Housing to the Kensington Market Community Land Trust to acquire, renovate and operate for a minimum of 99 years an additional affordable rental housing property in Ward 11, University-Rosedale under the terms of the Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition program and subject to a number of conditions. Kensington Market Community Land Trust approached City staff with a proposal to acquire a smaller property to operate as affordable rental housing and retail with less than the Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition program program's minimum unit requirement (6 units). The funding approved for Kensington Market Community Land Trust to purchase a property with a minimum 6 units requirement only results in approximately $80,000 per unit which is far below the existing Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition program rate of $200,000 per unit. City staff require City Council to amend 2022 MM45.51 to include approval for a one-time exemption to Kensington Market Community Land Trust from the Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition Program's minimum building unit requirement and to delegate authority to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat that was not captured in the previous City Council decision, including among other recommendations, to execute on behalf of the City a municipal capital facility agreement for housing purposes ("Contribution Agreement") with Kensington Market Community Land Trust and any security or financing documents or any other documents required to facilitate the funding process. This matter is urgent because the current funding approval expires in June 2024. Background/Decision History: City Council adopted PH28.3 - New Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition (MURA) Program to Protect Existing Affordable Rental Homes on November 9, 10 and 12, 2021: https://secure.toronto.ca/council/agenda-item.do?item=2021.PH28.3 City Council adopted MM42.39 - Protecting Existing Housing and Creating Permanently Affordable Homes with Supports for Youth at 556 Bathurst Street on April 6 and 7, 2022: https://secure.toronto.ca/council/agenda-item.do?item=2022.MM42.39 City Council adopted MM45.51 - Necessary Amendments to MM 42.39 regarding 556 Bathurst Street due to updated business arrangements on June 15 and 16, 2022: https://secure.toronto.ca/council/agenda-item.do?item=2022.MM45.51
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council amend its previous decision on Item 2022.MM45.51, by deleting Part 4: Part to be deleted: 4. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat to provide up to $450,000.00 inclusive of Harmonized Sales Tax and disbursements together with any remainder from Part 3 above, from the Capital Revolving Reserve Fund for Affordable Housing (XR1058) to the Kensington Market Community Land Trust, and/or a related corporation to acquire, renovate and operate for a minimum of 99 years an additional affordable rental housing property in Ward 11, University-Rosedale (the "Additional Ward 11 Property"), under the Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition Program, subject to: a. the successful acquisition of the property by Kensington Market Community Land Trust and/or a related corporation by no later than August 31, 2022 or such other date as is acceptable to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat; b. approval of a business case for the property outlining the management plan, management qualifications and financial viability of the project, satisfactory to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat; and c. Kensington Market Community Land Trust, and/or a related corporation entering into a municipal housing facility agreement (the "Contribution Agreement") with the City, on terms and conditions satisfactory to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat. and replacing it with the following new Part: 4. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat to provide up to $450,000.00 inclusive of Harmonized Sales Tax and disbursements together with any remainder from Part 3 above, from the Capital Revolving Reserve Fund for Affordable Housing (XR1058) to the Kensington Market Community Land Trust, and/or a related non-profit corporation to acquire, renovate and operate for a minimum of 99 years an affordable rental housing property in Ward 11, University-Rosedale, under the Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition Program, subject to: a. the successful acquisition of the property by Kensington Market Community Land Trust and/or a related non-profit corporation by no later than June 1, 2025, or such other date as is acceptable to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat; b. approval of a business case in respect of the property to be purchased that outlines a management plan, management qualifications and financial viability of the affordable housing project, property acquisition plan, satisfactory to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat; c. Kensington Market Community Land Trust and/or a related non-profit corporation entering into a municipal housing facility agreement for housing purposes (the "Contribution Agreement") with the City, on terms and conditions satisfactory to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat, and in a form acceptable to the City Solicitor. 2. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat to negotiate and execute on behalf of the City, a Contribution Agreement for 99 years with Kensington Market Community Land Trust and/or a related non-profit corporation to secure the financial assistance being provided and to set out the terms of the operation of the affordable rental housing, on terms and conditions satisfactory to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat and in a form approved by the City Solicitor. 3. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat to advance a portion of the City funding to Kensington Market Community Land Trust and/or a related non-profit corporation, for the purposes of providing funds for deposits and other pre-purchase expenses, prior to the proponent entering into a Contribution Agreement. 4. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat to execute, on behalf of the City, any security or financing documents or any other documents required to facilitate the funding process, including any documents required by a selected not for profit, or its related corporation to complete third party financing and refinancing, when required during the term of the City's agreement with Kensington Market Community Land Trust. 5. City Council authorize an exemption from taxation for municipal and school purposes for the affordable rental housing property referred to in Part 1 above for the 99-year term of the Contribution Agreement. 6. City Council authorize the Controller to cancel or refund any taxes paid after the effective date of a Contribution Agreement. 7. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to introduce the necessary bills to give effect to City Council's decision. 8. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat, to provide a one-time exemption to Kensington Market Community Land Trust from the Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition Program requirement to acquire a building containing a minimum of six units.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Dianne Saxe, seconded by Councillor Josh Matlow, recommends that: 1. City Council amend previous decision on Item 2022 MM45.51, by deleting Part 4: Part to be deleted: 4. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat to provide up to $450,000.00 inclusive of Harmonized Sales Tax and disbursements together with any remainder from Part 3 above, from the Capital Revolving Reserve Fund for Affordable Housing (XR1058) to the Kensington Market Community Land Trust, and/or a related corporation to acquire, renovate and operate for a minimum of 99 years an additional affordable rental housing property in Ward 11, University-Rosedale (the "Additional Ward 11 Property"), under the Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition Program, subject to: a. the successful acquisition of the property by Kensington Market Community Land Trust and/or a related corporation by no later than August 31, 2022 or such other date as is acceptable to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat; b. approval of a business case for the property outlining the management plan, management qualifications and financial viability of the project, satisfactory to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat; and c. Kensington Market Community Land Trust, and/or a related corporation entering into a municipal housing facility agreement (the "Contribution Agreement") with the City, on terms and conditions satisfactory to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat. and replacing it with the following new Part: 4. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat to provide up to $450,000.00 inclusive of Harmonized Sales Tax and disbursements together with any remainder from Part 3 above, from the Capital Revolving Reserve Fund for Affordable Housing (XR1058) to the Kensington Market Community Land Trust, and/or a related non-profit corporation to acquire, renovate and operate for a minimum of 99 years an affordable rental housing property in Ward 11, University-Rosedale under the Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition Program, subject to: a. the successful acquisition of the property by Kensington Market Community Land Trust and/or a related non-profit corporation by no later than June 1, 2025, or such other date as is acceptable to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat; b. approval of a business case in respect of the property to be purchased that outlines a management plan, management qualifications and financial viability of the affordable housing project, property acquisition plan, satisfactory to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat; c. Kensington Market Community Land Trust and/or a related non-profit corporation entering into a municipal housing facility agreement for housing purposes (the "Contribution Agreement") with the City, on terms and conditions satisfactory to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat, and in a form acceptable to the City Solicitor. 2. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat to negotiate and execute on behalf of the City, a Contribution Agreement for 99 years with Kensington Market Community Land Trust and/or a related non-profit corporation to secure the financial assistance being provided and to set out the terms of the operation of the affordable rental housing, on terms and conditions satisfactory to the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat and in a form approved by the City Solicitor. 3. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat to advance a portion of the City funding to Kensington Market Community Land Trust and/or a related non-profit corporation, for the purposes of providing funds for deposits and other pre-purchase expenses, prior to the proponent entering into a Contribution Agreement. 4. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat to execute, on behalf of the City, any security or financing documents or any other documents required to facilitate the funding process, including any documents required by a selected not for profit, or its related corporation to complete third party financing and refinancing, when required during the term of the City's agreement with Kensington Market Community Land Trust. 5. City Council authorize an exemption from taxation for municipal and school purposes for the affordable rental housing property referred to in Recommendation 1 above for the 99-year term of the Contribution Agreement. 6. City Council authorize the Controller to cancel or refund any taxes paid after the effective date of a Contribution Agreement. 7. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to introduce the necessary bills to give effect to City Council's decision. 8. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Housing Secretariat to provide a one-time exemption to Kensington Market Community Land Trust from the Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition Program requirement to acquire a building containing a minimum of six units.
MM18.26adopted
2024 will be a crucial year in the redevelopment of the Port Lands. The new island will be finally open in the fall with a new name that recognizes the long historic presence of Indigenous peoples on the waterfront and the Don River. In June proposed updated zoning to increase affordable housing from 20 to 30 percent will be tabled at Planning and Housing Committee. The 2017 precinct plan will be updated to reflect this. There is excitement and renewed interest in the new Island and questions about proposed land use, heights and densities, development blocks, public realm and affordable housing. Before the plan is approved it is helpful to review the new numbers to ensure that every possible effort has been made to maximize affordable housing on the waterfront. Everyone has to have hope they will be able to live in this beautiful newly planned waterfront community. The June 13th report should include precise information to help the public address any concerns and provide a framework for discussion. Reason for urgency: The updates to the 2017 Port Lands Precinct Plans are being reported to June 13th Planning and Housing Committee.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council request the Deputy City Manager, Development and Growth Services, to report to the June 13, 2024 Planning and Housing Committee meeting on: a. difficulties, if any, in achieving 30 percent affordable housing on non-City owned lands and how this might affect the overall number of target units; b. any height restrictions due to Federal Aviation regulations for the Island Airport; c. right-of-way width required for transit and cycling infrastructure; d. right-of-way width required for automobile use; e. right-of-way width currently allocated to public realm and planting areas, including any requirements for environmental and stormwater management; f. any options to expand the development blocks area by reallocating space from the proposed right-of-way; and g. feasibility of including additional housing anywhere on the Essroc site.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Paula Fletcher, seconded by Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik, recommends that: 1. City Council request the Deputy City Manager, Development and Growth Services, to report to the June 13, 2024 Planning and Housing Committee meeting: a. difficulties, if any, in achieving 30 percent affordable housing on non-City owned lands and how this might affect the overall number of target units; b. any height restrictions due to Federal Aviation regulations for the Island Airport; c. right-of-way width required for transit and cycling infrastructure; d. right-of-way width required for automobile use; e. right-of-way width currently allocated to public realm and planting areas, including any requirements for environmental and stormwater management; f. any options to expand the development blocks area by reallocating space from the proposed right-of-way; and g. feasibility of including additional housing anywhere on the Essroc site.
MM18.27adopted
On December 13, 2023, the City of Toronto adopted Municipal Code Chapter 367, Building Emissions Performance ("the By-law"), which requires property owners of buildings in Toronto that are 929 square metres (10,000 square feet) and larger to report their energy and water use, amongst other building information, to the City annually. The By-law's reporting requirement is being phased in over a number of years, with property owners of buildings 4,645 square meters (50,000 square feet) and larger being required to report their previous year's report information annually starting in 2024 and property owners of buildings 929 square metres (10,000 square feet) and larger being required to report their previous year's report information annually starting in 2025. Under the By-law, the deadline for property owners to submit 2023 report information to the City is July 2, 2024. However, to date, only approximately 1 percent of the properties that are required to report to the City have submitted their report information. Furthermore, City staff have heard from some property owners that they are experiencing delays in receiving aggregated whole-building consumption data and may not be able to report their energy and water use information by the report deadline or may need a reporting exemption or extension this year from the City. The deadline stated in the By-law for a property owner to apply for an extension or exemption from reporting is 60 calendar days prior to the report deadline and has passed for this calendar year. Given that 2024 is the first year that property owners are required to report their buildings' energy and water use to the City of Toronto, and the July 2, 2024 report deadline is fast approaching, City staff would like to extend the 2024 deadline to submit their report information or request a reporting extension or exemption to October 31, 2024 in order to provide property owners with additional time. REQUIRES RE-OPENING Item 2023.IE9.5 (December 13, 14, and 15, 2023, City Council meeting) only as it pertains to Part 1 of City Council's decision, with respect to the reporting deadline.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council amend its previous decision on Item 2023.IE9.5, headed "Proposed Building Emissions Performance Reporting By-Law" by amending Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 367, Building Emissions Performance, as follows: a. by extending the report deadline in 2024 for the report information to October 31, 2024; and b. by extending the reporting extension and exemption deadline in 2024 to October 31, 2024. 2. City Council authorize the introduction of the necessary Bills in Council to give effect to City Council's decision.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Jennifer McKelvie, seconded by Councillor Dianne Saxe, recommends that: 1. City Council amend its previous decision on Item 2023.IE9.5, headed "Proposed Building Emissions Performance Reporting By-Law" by amending Chapter 367, Building Emissions Performance, as follows: a. by extending the report deadline in 2024 for the report information to October 31, 2024; and b. by extending the reporting extension and exemption deadline in 2024 to October 31, 2024. 2. City Council authorize the introduction of the necessary Bills in Council to give effect to City Council's decision.
MM18.28adopted
At its meeting on July 16, 2019, City Council approved Item 2019.TE7.13 to amend the Official Plan and Zoning By-law for the lands at 11-25 Yorkville Avenue and 16-18 Cumberland Street (the "Lands"). The application proposed a mixed-use development on the Lands, including: 62-storey tower on Yorkville Avenue; a 3-strorey commercial building on Cumberland Street; 674 dwelling units, including 81 rental replacement units; a 248 square metre Privately Owned Publicly-Accessible Space (POPS); and a 455 square metre parkland dedication. The City Council approval did not include authority to allow tie-back encumbrances within the park. It has come to the attention of staff that tie-backs were installed within the lands to be conveyed as parkland. The existing tie-back encumbrances within the park are acceptable to staff, provided the owner fulfills the City's standard tie-back conditions including but not limited to, destressing the tie-backs prior to parkland conveyance and providing a payment of compensation to the City, in an amount as determined by the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation and the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management. This motion is urgent because the developer the parkland dedication is ready to be conveyed to the City. Council authority for the encumbrance is required prior to the parkland being conveyed.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council approve the acceptance of on-site parkland dedication, as previously authorized in City Council decision on Item 2019.TE7.13 adopted on June 25, 2019, for the lands municipally known as 11-25 Yorkville Avenue and 16-18 Cumberland Street, subject to the owner transferring the parkland to the City free and clear, above and below grade, of all easements, encumbrances, and encroachments, in an acceptable environmental condition; the owner may propose the exception of encumbrances of tiebacks, where such an encumbrance is deemed acceptable by the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, in consultation with the City Solicitor; and such an encumbrance will be subject to proper destressing of the tiebacks, provision of a plan that illustrates the location of the tiebacks, and the payment of compensation to the City, in an amount as determined by the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, and the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Dianne Saxe, seconded by Councillor Jennifer McKelvie, recommends that: 1. City Council approve the acceptance of on-site parkland dedication, as previously authorized in City Council Decision Item 2019.TE7.13 adopted on June 25, 2019 for the lands municipally known as 11-25 Yorkville Avenue and 16-18 Cumberland Street, subject to the owner transferring the parkland to the City free and clear, above and below grade, of all easements, encumbrances, and encroachments, in an acceptable environmental condition; the owner may propose the exception of encumbrances of tiebacks, where such an encumbrance is deemed acceptable by the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, in consultation with the City Solicitor; and such an encumbrance will be subject to proper destressing of the tiebacks, provision of a plan that illustrates the location of the tiebacks, and the payment of compensation to the City, in an amount as determined by the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation and the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management.
MM18.29adopted
First approved by City Council in 2004, the Policy for Community Tennis Club Operations establishes Community Tennis Clubs as partners in the delivery of tennis programming across the City. The policy guides the operation of Community Tennis Clubs and includes specific requirements for permits, public hours, and the mutual responsibilities of the Community Tennis Clubs and Parks, Forestry and Recreation in maintaining the courts at Community Tennis Club locations. Under the policy, Community Tennis Clubs establish and maintain capital reserve funds to make capital repairs and improvements to the Community Tennis Club assets. Kew Gardens Tennis Club is a Community Tennis Club operating at 2075 Queen St E within Beaches Park in Ward 19, Beaches-East York consisting of five hard courts and five clay courts. Kew is proposing to resurface the five hard courts to repair damage and to develop two mini hard courts for programming in a back area of the Club's permitted space. The Club will use its capital reserve fund to cover the costs of the projects. These projects would be delivered through a construction and donation agreement with Parks, Forestry and Recreation. The total in-kind donation amount for both projects is valued up to $0.200 million. Under City Council's Donations to the City of Toronto for Community Benefits Policy, Council authority is required to accept donations over $0.050 million. The proposed scopes of work for Kew Gardens Tennis Club have been reviewed and approved by staff. No costs will be incurred by Parks, Forestry and Recreation for the court refurbishment, and ongoing maintenance will be covered as per the Policy for Outdoor Community Tennis Club Operations. This motion is considered urgent in order for capital projects to commence as early as Spring 2024.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council authorize the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, to accept the in-kind donation of up to $0.200 million from Kew Gardens Tennis Club for the purposes of refurbishing five tennis courts at Beaches Park in 2024, in compliance with the Policy for Outdoor Community Tennis Club Operations and the Donations to the City of Toronto for Community Benefits Policy. 2. City Council authorize the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, to execute an agreement with Kew Gardens Tennis Club to facilitate the capital repairs and improvements at Beaches Park in 2024, including renovations to the back area to build mini courts that could facilitate red ball and pickleball play, on terms and conditions satisfactory to the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, in a form and content satisfactory to the City Solicitor, and in accordance with City policies applicable to capital projects, including compliance with the City's fair wage policy and other procurement policies, as well as the City's Labour Trades Contractual Obligations in the Construction Industry, if applicable.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Brad Bradford, seconded by Councillor Parthi Kandavel, recommends that: 1. City Council authorize the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation to accept the in-kind donation of up to $0.200 million from Kew Gardens Tennis Club for the purposes of refurbishing five tennis courts at Beaches Park in 2024, in compliance with the Policy for Outdoor Community Tennis Club Operations and the Donations to the City of Toronto for Community Benefits Policy. 2. City Council authorize the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation to execute an agreement with Kew Gardens Tennis Club to facilitate the capital repairs and improvements at Beaches Park in 2024, including renovations to the back area to build mini courts that could facilitate red ball and pickleball play, on terms and conditions satisfactory to the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, in a form and content satisfactory to the City Solicitor, and in accordance with City policies applicable to capital projects, including compliance with the City's fair wage policy and other procurement policies, as well as the City's Labour Trades Contractual Obligations in the Construction Industry, if applicable.
MM18.30adopted
Desotos Eatery/Atomic 10 (1807297 Ontario Inc.) is a treasured local restaurant in the Regal Heights neighbourhood of Davenport. Since 2016, Desotos Eatery has operated a sidewalk café (flankage) patio which has been well attended by local residents. Since 2022, Desotos Eatery (1807297 Ontario Inc.) has been actively working with Transportation Services, Municipal Licensing and Standards, Toronto Building, and Toronto Fire Services to ensure that their patio is compliant with all applicable by-laws and regulations. As part of this process, an application for a Sidewalk Café Permit must be submitted. Given these circumstances, where the patio has been operating for many years already and was previously permitted, it is recommended that the requirement for notice under Chapter 742 of the Toronto Municipal Code is waived. This will allow for Desotos Eatery to begin permitted operations as quickly as possible in anticipation of the busy summer patio season. It is also recommended that the business be exempted from the requirement for a visual screen as the patio was previously permitted to operate without a visual screen and has been doing so for many years without complaint from the local area. This exemption will regularize the existing built condition. Reason for Urgency: Providing clarity on these requirements are required for the business to ensure compliance before the 2024 patio season which has already begun.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. When 1807297 Ontario Inc., operating as Desotos Eatery/Atomic 10, applies for a sidewalk café permit for the 2024 summer café season in relation to the establishment at 1079 St. Clair Avenue West, City Council exempt that application from the notice requirements in section 742-2.3 and the objection provisions in sections 742-3.2A(2) and 742-4.3B(2) in City of Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 742, Sidewalk Cafes, Parklets and Marketing Displays. 2. City Council exempt 1807297 Ontario Inc operating as Desotos Eatery/Atomic 10 from the visual screen requirements in section 742-10.6 in City of Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 742, Sidewalk Cafes, Parklets and Marketing Displays.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Alejandra Bravo, seconded by Councillor Paula Fletcher, recommends that: 1. When 1807297 Ontario Inc., operating as Desotos Eatery/Atomic 10, applies for a sidewalk café permit for the 2024 summer café season in relation to the establishment at 1079 St. Clair Avenue West, City Council exempt that application from the notice requirements in section 742-2.3 and the objection provisions in sections 742-3.2A(2) and 742-4.3B(2) in City of Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 742, Sidewalk Cafes, Parklets and Marketing Displays. 2. City Council exempt 1807297 Ontario Inc operating as Desotos Eatery/Atomic 10 from the visual screen requirements in section 742-10.6 in City of Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 742, Sidewalk Cafes, Parklets and Marketing Displays.
MM18.31adopted
On December 7, 2023, the Committee of Adjustment (the "Committee") refused an application brought by the owner of 29 Lake Promenade for variances to City of Toronto Zoning By-law 569-2013 to legalize and to maintain a new detached dwelling with an attached garage (the "Application"). A copy of the Committee's decision is attached as Attachment 1. On December 21, 2023, the owner appealed the Committee's Application refusal to the Toronto Local Appeal Body. The Application presents outstanding concerns including, but not limited to, excessive massing and height, and insufficient landscaping. The Toronto Local Appeal Body hearing was scheduled to commence on April 22, 2024. This hearing has been adjourned and a new hearing date is expected to be scheduled imminently - as such this motion is urgent. The original Notice of Hearing is attached as Attachment 2 and the Interim Decision adjourning the original hearing date is attached as Attachment 3. This motion will authorize the City Solicitor to seek party status and if successful to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body hearing along with appropriate City staff to oppose the appeal. This motion also authorizes the City Solicitor to negotiate a settlement of the appeal and retain outside consultants as necessary. Background Information Attachment 1: Notice of Decision of the Committee of Adjustment regarding Application A0347/23EYK dated December 7, 2023 Attachment 2: Notice of Hearing Attachment 3: Interim Decision dated April 3, 2024
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body to uphold the Committee of Adjustment's refusal of Application A0347/23EYK respecting 29 Lake Promenade. 2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to retain outside consultants as necessary. 3. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attempt negotiating a resolution regarding Application A0347/23EYK respecting 29 Lake Promenade, and that the City Solicitor be authorized to resolve the matter on behalf of the City, in the City Solicitor's discretion, after consulting with the Ward Councillor and the Director, Community Planning, Etobicoke York District.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Amber Morley, seconded by Councillor Chris Moise, recommends that: 1. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body to uphold the Committee of Adjustment's refusal of Application A0347/23EYK respecting 29 Lake Promenade. 2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to retain outside consultants as necessary. 3. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attempt negotiating a resolution regarding Application A0347/23EYK respecting 29 Lake Promenade, and that the City Solicitor be authorized to resolve the matter on behalf of the City, in the City Solicitor's discretion, after consulting with the Ward Councillor and the Director, Etobicoke York District Community Planning.
MM18.32adopted
The applicant applied to the Committee of Adjustment (Application A0024/24TEY) requesting variances from City-wide Zoning By-law 569-2013 related to a set back from the lot line of the lot abutting the lane, a set back of the main wall from the side (east) lot line, and the required minimum number of parking spaces (the "Application"). The Application seeks to alter the existing two-storey mixed-use building at 1438-1440 Queen Street West (the "Property"), containing retail space on the ground floor and four residential dwelling units on the second storey, by constructing a rear second-storey addition and a complete third-storey addition. The existing retail space will be maintained and unaltered. There will be a total of 16 residential dwelling units on the second and third storeys of this altered building. The Application includes a Rental Housing Declaration of Use and Screening Form outlining four existing dwelling units on the Property. On April 30, 2024, the Toronto and East York District Panel of the Committee of Adjustment approved the Application, subject to three conditions (the "Decision"), including the requirement for the owner to provide an acceptable tenant relocation and assistance plan for tenants of the existing rental dwelling units proposed to be demolished. A copy of the Notice of Decision of the Committee of Adjustment is attached. The applicant has appealed the approval on conditions to the Toronto Local Appeal Body (the "Appeal"). In a report from the Director of Community Planning, Toronto and East York District dated April 17, 2024, Planning Staff recommended that should the Committee of Adjustment approve the Application, certain conditions related to the provision of a tenant relocation and assistance plan be imposed, pursuant to Policy 3.2.1.12 of the Official Plan. A copy of the Planning Report is attached. In a report from the Acting Senior Manager, Heritage Planning, Urban Design, City Planning dated April 17, 2024, Heritage Planning Staff noted that the Property is included on the City's Heritage register. Heritage Planning Staff recommended that should the Committee of Adjustment approve the Application, a condition be imposed for Heritage Planning to review the proposed plans prior to work commencing at the property. A copy of the Heritage Planning Report is attached. This Motion will authorize the City Solicitor to attend the appeal of the Committee of Adjustment's decision at the Toronto Local Appeal Body and to request the imposition of the conditions set out in the Planning Staff Report and the Heritage Planning Staff Report should the appeal be allowed. This motion will also authorize the City Solicitor to resolve the matter on behalf of the City in her discretion. This Motion is urgent as the City Solicitor needs instructions for a Toronto Local Appeal Body appearance which can be scheduled at any time. Attachment 1: Notice of Decision of the Committee of Adjustment (Application A0024/24TEY) Attachment 2: Planning Staff Report dated April 17, 2024 Attachment 3: Heritage Planning Staff Report dated April 17, 2024
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body as a party, with appropriate City staff, regarding the proposed development at 1438-1440 Queen Street West (Application A0024/24TEY) and direct the City Solicitor to request that should the appeal of the Committee of Adjustment's decision be allowed, that it be subject to the following conditions: a. the owner shall provide an acceptable tenant relocation and assistance plan to lessen hardship for tenants of the existing rental dwelling units proposed to be demolished at 1438-1440 Queen St. W, in conformity with Policy 3.2.1.12 of the Official Plan. The tenant relocation and assistance plan shall be consistent with the City's standard practices and developed in consultation with, and to the satisfaction of, the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning, addressing the following: 1. minimum financial compensation and notice as required under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, when a tenant receives a notice of termination for the purposes of demolition; 2. additional compensation above and beyond the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, in the form of a rent gap payment; 3. additional notice of the date of termination of each existing tenant's tenancy, above and beyond the minimum notice required under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006; 4. a moving allowance for each existing tenant and consistent with the City's current practices; 5. special needs compensation for any existing tenant who suffers from a physical and/or mental health challenge, and/or is sixty-five (65) years of age or older; and 6. upon the request of a tenant, making a rental leasing agent available to assist the tenant in identifying and securing alternative rental accommodation. b. the owner shall enter into and register on title to the lands at 1438-1440 Queen Street West, an agreement pursuant to Section 45(9) of the Planning Act to secure the tenant relocation and assistance plan required above to the satisfaction of the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning and the City Solicitor. c. the owner must submit building permit drawings, including plans, elevations and details to the satisfaction of the Senior Manager, Heritage Planning, Urban Design, City Planning. 2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attempt to negotiate a resolution of the Appeal for 1438 - 1440 Queen Street West (Application A0024/24TEY) and City Council authorize the City Solicitor to resolve the matter on behalf of the City at the City Solicitor's discretion after consultation with the Ward Councillor, the Director, Community Planning, Toronto and East York District, and the Senior Manager of Heritage Planning, Urban Design, City Planning.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Gord Perks, seconded by Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik, recommends that: 1. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body as a party, with appropriate City staff, regarding the proposed development at 1438 - 1440 Queen Street West (Application A0024/24TEY) and direct the City Solicitor to request that should the appeal of the Committee of Adjustment's decision be allowed, that it be subject to the following conditions: a. the owner shall provide an acceptable tenant relocation and assistance plan to lessen hardship for tenants of the existing rental dwelling units proposed to be demolished at 1438 - 1440 Queen St. W, in conformity with Policy 3.2.1.12 of the Official Plan. The tenant relocation and assistance plan shall be consistent with the City's standard practices and developed in consultation with, and to the satisfaction of, the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning, addressing the following: 1. minimum financial compensation and notice as required under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 when a tenant receives a notice of termination for the purposes of demolition; 2. additional compensation above and beyond the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 in the form of a rent gap payment; 3. additional notice of the date of termination of each existing tenant's tenancy, above and beyond the minimum notice required under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006; 4. a moving allowance for each existing tenant and consistent with the City's current practices; 5. special needs compensation for any existing tenant who suffers from a physical and/or mental health challenge, and/or is sixty-five (65) years of age or older; and 6. upon the request of a tenant, making a rental leasing agent available to assist the tenant in identifying and securing alternative rental accommodation. b. the owner shall enter into and register on title to the lands at 1438 -1440 Queen Street West, an agreement pursuant to Section 45(9) of the Planning Act to secure the tenant relocation and assistance plan required above to the satisfaction of the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning and the City Solicitor. c. the owner must submit building permit drawings, including plans, elevations and details to the satisfaction of the Senior Manager, Heritage Planning, Urban Design, City Planning Division. 2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attempt to negotiate a resolution of the Appeal for 1438 - 1440 Queen Street West (Application A0024/24TEY) and City Council authorize the City Solicitor to resolve the matter on behalf of the City at the City Solicitor's discretion after consultation with the Ward Councillor, the Director of Community Planning, Toronto and East York District, and the Senior Manager of Heritage Planning, Urban Design, City Planning.
MM18.33adopted
Contract 2 of the F. G. Gardiner Rehabilitation, to rehabilitate the elevated section between Dufferin Street and Strachan Avenue, is underway and expected to be completed in mid-2027. Over the past several weeks, staff have been working to develop a comprehensive plan to accelerate construction and reduce traffic impacts. The ongoing construction works has created additional congestion on the Gardiner along with increased congestion on Lake Shore Boulevard West as drivers divert to Lake Shore Boulevard West to avoid the construction zone. Staff have identified that opening the Jameson Gate (westbound Gardiner on-ramp), which is located west of the Gardiner worksite, would help to relieve the traffic on Lake Shore Boulevard West by providing a route back on to the Gardiner expressway. Currently, the Jameson Gate is closed between 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (p.m. peak period), Monday to Friday. This p.m. peak period closure has been in place since 2017 to manage the movement of traffic onto the Gardiner. With the Contract 2 Gardiner Rehabilitation works there is a need to enable diverted traffic to leave Lake Shore Boulevard West and rejoin the Gardiner. The motion gives the General Manager, Transportation Services the ability to open the gate during the p.m. peak as required to better manage traffic movements on Lake Shore Boulevard West and control the flow of traffic onto the Gardiner. Reason for Urgency: Changes to the Jameson gate are needed to address the increased traffic congestion on Lake Shore Boulevard West.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. Despite any other by-law, City Council authorize the General Manager, Transportation Services, to open the Westbound on-ramp to the Frederick G Gardiner Expressway from westbound Lake Shore Boulevard West at Jameson Avenue at any time between 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Monday to Friday until October 31, 2027, inclusive, when, in the General Manager, Transportation Services' opinion, opening is warranted to assist traffic flow in the area, such authority to extend for the duration of the Frederick. G. Gardiner Contract 2 works, Contract Number 22ECS-BE-01GE, which works are expected to be complete by October 31, 2027.
Staff recommendation as filed
Mayor Olivia Chow, seconded by Councillor Jennifer McKelvie, recommends that: 1. Despite any other by-law, City Council authorize the General Manager, Transportation Services, to open the Westbound on-ramp to the Frederick G Gardiner Expressway from westbound Lake Shore Boulevard West at Jameson Avenue at any time between 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Monday to Friday until October 31, 2027, inclusive, when, in the General Manager of Transportation Services' opinion, opening is warranted to assist traffic flow in the area, such authority to extend for the duration of the Frederick. G. Gardiner Contract 2 works, Contract Number 22ECS-BE-01GE, which works are expected to be complete by October 31, 2027.
MM18.34adopted
It's Ok* Community Arts in Toronto is a Black-led, not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting Black artists, primarily from the Black Canadian diaspora. For the past two years, their work has been centered at the It's Ok* Studios, an interdisciplinary arts space in the Queen West neighborhood. This current facility at 468 Queen St W is City owned, and will be transferred to Parks, Forestry, and Recreation in April 2025. As work on the future on-site park is expected to begin next summer, a lease extension is not possible at this time. The It's Ok* Studios is a beacon of opportunity and empowerment for Toronto's Black artistic community and welcomes community locally and from across the City. It provides a space for artistic expression, fosters collaboration, and equips artists with the tools they need to thrive. It is important for the City to continue this relationship, as the search for a new location is set to begin. This motion is urgent as a new location is needed to be found immediately for It's Ok* Community Arts Studio as their current lease is expiring April 2025 and cannot be renewed.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council request the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture, in consultation with the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management, CreateTO, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, and other City divisions as appropriate, to continue to prioritize work, in coordination with It's OK Community Arts, to identify suitable City-owned space as future leased premises for It's OK* Community Arts on completion of the Term at 468 Queen Street West, and report back to the Toronto Music Advisory Committee in November 2024.
Staff recommendation as filed
Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik, seconded by Councillor Brad Bradford, recommends that: 1. City Council request the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture, in consultation with the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management, CreateTO, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, and other City divisions as appropriate, continue to prioritize work, in coordination with It's OK Community Arts, to identify suitable City-owned space as future leased premises for It's OK* Community Arts on completion of the Term at 468 Queen St West, and report back to the Toronto Music Advisory Committee in November 2024.
MM18.35adopted
This weekend there was armed invasion at 48 Saulter Street and this is evidential of the ongoing issues that have been occurring here. Many neighbours of 48 Saulter St. have contacted my office regarding the issues with the Short-Term Rental operating at this address including noise, building code violation, and STR bylaw violations over the last two years. Since 2022, the amplified noise from 48 Saulter has been extremely disruptive. The resident's have presented a petition to close the Short-Term Rental given that the operators have not been compliant with the bylaw and have continued to negatively affect the community. There is also a currently an order issued from Toronto Buildings issued for work being completed without a permit. Reason for urgency: A recent armed home invasion at 48 Saulter St has led to serious community concern. The issue needs to be addressed quickly before more incidents occur.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. With respect to a registration issued to a short-term rental operator at 48 Saulter Street, City Council request the Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards, to consider information that may be available from the Toronto Police Service regarding a recent incident at that address, and to follow-up with AirBnB and any other licensed Short Term Rental company that advertises this property, as appropriate.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Paula Fletcher, seconded by Councillor Frances Nunziata, recommends that: 1. With respect to a registration issued to a short-term rental operator at 48 Saulter Street, City Council request the Executive Director of Municipal Licensing and Standards to consider information that may be available from the Toronto Police Service regarding a recent incident at that address, and to follow-up with AirBnB and any other licensed Short Term Rental company that advertises this property, as appropriate.
MM18.36adopted
Leslie Lookout Park is about to be opened to the public and will be a signature part of the revitalized Port Lands. Ensuring that people can access it safely is a key consideration. With the multi-use trail on the opposite side of the street from the new park, a safe crossing across Leslie will allow for pedestrians and cyclists to safely access the park. Leslie Street has regular heavy truck traffic due to ongoing construction at the Ashbridges Water Treatment Plant and existing industrial uses in the area. Having a high level of pedestrian protection is important to making this park successful. Reason for urgency: The park is scheduled to open in early summer 2024 and safe access needs to be completed as quickly as possible.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council request the General Manager, Transportation Services, to report back to the July 10, 2024, meeting of the Toronto and East York Community Council on the appropriate type of pedestrian crossing, including a pedestrian signal across Leslie Street at the Leslie Lookout Park.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Paula Fletcher, seconded by Councillor Jennifer McKelvie, recommends that: 1. City Council request the General Manager Transportation Services to report back to the July 10, 2024 meeting of the Toronto and East York Community Council on the appropriate type of pedestrian crossing including a pedestrian signal across Leslie Street at the Leslie Lookout Park.
MM18.37adopted
Artscape Receivership - by Councillor Alejandra Bravo, seconded by Mayor Olivia Chow
On October 11, 2023, Toronto City Council adopted Item 2023.MM11.32, Responding to Toronto Artscape Inc. Receivership Proceedings, which provided information and sought direction regarding a pending receivership proceeding that was anticipated at that time to be commenced against Toronto Artscape Inc. Throughout the fall, City staff worked with Artscape to develop comprehensive transition plans for Artscape's 14 properties ahead of the receivership, with the objective of ensuring continuity for Artscape's 390 residential and commercial tenants. A Receiver was appointed over Artscape's operations by a decision of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice on January 11, 2024. Of Artscape's 390 residential and commercial tenants at its various properties, the vast majority were excluded from the scope of the Receivership. Most below-market commercial tenancies for artists and arts organizations will be managed by ArtHubs Toronto Inc., a newly established non-profit successor organization to Artscape, while the operation of most affordable housing units has been transitioned to Artscape Non-Profit Homes Inc., which has engaged WoodGreen Community Services to provide property management services to tenants. Just 38 tenants, or 9 percent of Artscape's former tenants, are located at properties subject to the Receivership. Among other things, Item 2023.MM11.32 directed the City Solicitor to participate in the receivership proceeding against Artscape with a view to protecting City's property and interests in affordable housing, and affordable not for profit community arts and culture space. This motion requests further direction from Council with respect to the receivership proceedings against Artscape. This motion relates to ongoing litigation for which action is required before the next meeting of City Council. Therefore, this matter is urgent. This motion also relates to or contains information regarding litigation or potential litigation.
City Council on May 22 and 23, 2024, adopted the following: 1. City Council adopt the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to Member Motion MM18.37. 2. City Council authorize the public release of the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to Member Motion MM18.37, at the discretion of the City Solicitor.   3. City Council direct that the balance of Confidential Attachment 1 to Member Motion MM18.37 is to remain confidential at the discretion of the City Solicitor, as it is about litigation and contains advice or communications that are subject to solicitor-client privilege. Confidential Attachment 1 to Member Motion MM18.37 remains confidential at this time in accordance with the provisions of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, as it pertains to litigation and contains advice or communications that are subject to solicitor-client privilege. Confidential Attachment 1 to Member Motion MM18.37 will be made public at the discretion of the City Solicitor.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Alejandra Bravo, seconded by Mayor Olivia Chow, recommends that: 1. City Council adopt the confidential instructions to staff contained in the Confidential Attachment 1 to this motion. 2. City Council authorize the public release of the confidential instructions to staff contained in Confidential Attachment 1 to this motion, if adopted by City Council, at the discretion of the City Solicitor.   3. City Council direct that all other information contained in Confidential Attachment 1 to this motion is to remain confidential at the discretion of the City Solicitor, as it is about litigation and contains advice or communications that are subject to solicitor-client privilege.