April 22, 1998

To:Toronto Community Council

From:Director of Development & Support - Toronto Parks and Recreation, City Hall Office

Subject:Request for Removal of a City-owned Tree - 1241 St. Clair Avenue West (Ward 21 - Davenport)

Purpose:

An application has been received from Mr. Romano Sironi, The New Toronto Hydro - Electric Commission, 500 Commissioners Street, Toronto, M4M 3N7, for City Council to consider removal of a City owned Honeylocust tree.

Recommendation:

That tree removal be conditional on the applicant paying all costs, a total of $1,553.71, and that such funds be used by Forestry Services for tree maintenance.

Comments:

Mr. Sironi reports that the Honeylocust tree is in direct conflict with a proposed transformer vault to be installed on the southwest corner of Via Italia and St. Clair Avenue West. An alternative site for the transformer at the southeast corner of Via Italia and St. Clair Avenue West was discussed with Toronto Hydro representatives. However, as outlined in appendix A, Hydro reports that this option would cost approximately $61,000.00 extra.

The tree in question is an 18 cm diameter honeylocust which is located on Via Italia. The tree stands in good condition and is valued at $162.78. Due to the size and condition of this tree, it cannot be successfully relocated to another location. The costs to remove the tree is $132.40.

Since installation of a transformer would result in permanent elimination of a planting site, I recommend that if Council approves removal of this tree, such approval be conditional on the applicant paying all costs, a total of $1,553.71, and that such funds be used by Forestry Services for tree maintenance.

(Signed by RU for SR) TF

Susan Richardson

Director, Development & Support

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WQ

Attachment

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Contact Name: Warren Quan

Email: wquan@city.toronto.on.ca

Tel: 416-392-1940

Fax: 416-392-6657