Last Updated - December 18, 2007

At long last ...

In early November the unsafe buildings finally started to come down.  ARECA's involvement has played a key role and will continue to do so until the property is developed.

      

Duplex and Orchard View soon to be safer ...

We believe that Duplex and Orchard View will soon be safer.  The six derelict homes at the north-west corner that have been a great concern to people living in the area are soon to be demolished!  Considerable weather damage and neglect have allowed the buildings to become sites for young people, the homeless and others, to use for their own purposes, despite the extremely hazardous and unsafe conditions of the dwellings.

City policy holds that demolition permits are not normally issued unless there is an accompanying application to build something appropriate on the land.  On October 12, 2004, the North York Community Council showed vision and responsibility by voting in favour of the demolition application, despite City Staff's recommendation to refuse demolition.

This happened largely because of the ongoing leadership and efforts of Councillor Stintz and her staff who listened and responded to concerns of area residents and ARECA.  Deputations from ARECA Board Members were heard by the Community Council. Gillian Jagasia spoke on behalf of the ARECA Board and Bob Warren spoke on behalf of thirty-three petitioners who live within a block of the six derelict homes.  The petition of thirty-three signatories was made a part of the official record of the Council proceedings.

The next step is for this to be voted on at City Council where we anticipate it will pass.  The buildings should be down before year's end.

The owner of the land has the obligation to ensure the area is maintained in a safe fashion.

Chalk another one up for ARECA ... we do make a difference!