SLNA will go to OMB over two tall towers; CPLC investigates daytime shooting, debuts new form

Michael Schwartz –

St Lawrence Neighbourhood Association (SLNA) continues its opposition to two local developments.

At its delegates’ meeting on April 30, the SLNA made it unanimously clear that it will not accept either of the proposed projects at 177 Front St. E. project or 25 Richmond St. E. and will register as a participant when the plans are debated at OMB level.

The planned development at 177 Front St. E. comprises three 34-storey blocks on an 8- to 10- storey base; 1,349 residential units and 708 vehicle parking spaces will occupy the area bordered by Lower Sherbourne St., Princess Ave., The Esplanade and Front St. E. And while the development proposed for 25 Richmond St. envisages preservation of a four-storey heritage building, that preservation will make way for a 50-storey tower hosting 689 residential units, 286 automobile parking spaces and 760 bicycle parking spaces.

Not only did the April 30 meeting see solid opposition to two planning schemes but it also heard presentations from three local police officers, an address by MPP Glen Murray and local updates.

Superintendent Elizabeth Byrnes, Unit Commander of 51 Division, was accompanied by her number two Inspector Robert Johnson and Staff Sergeant Peter Troup, the Community Response Unit Manager.

They reported officers (and the community) had been stunned by a shooting in mid-March during daylight hours when—in addition to adults going about their business—children were walking home from school. The shooting is now under investigation by a major crime unit, although an arrest is unlikely in the short-term as relevant evidence has to be collected.

51 Division has created new Community Policing Complain Forms for non-emergency situations to be sent direct to Staff Sergeant Troup. Alternatively the Division’s cycle cops (whose mandate is to interact with area residents as much as possible) can be approached at all times. Community members can always anonymously report a crime by calling (416) 222-TIPS.

MPP Glen Murray provided an update to SLNA members on provincial matters including the introduction of 103 new doctors and 38 other health professionals into central Toronto, support of the Downtown Relief Line, ensuring wheelchair access at 75% of subway stations and the phasing out of diesel locomotives.

SLNA delegate Don James is planning a seniors’ neighbourhood safety walk aimed at social bonding and identifying environmental areas of concern.

For more information, visit www.slna.ca.