Natural Garden Exemption -

56 Gilmour Avenue (High Park)

The Toronto Community Council recommends that:

(1)City Council grant an exemption under Municipal Code, Chapter 202, Section 202-2D to cancel the served notice and to allow a natural garden to remain at 56 Gilmour Avenue; and

(2)the Commissioner of Works and Emergency Services ensure that the ragweed is removed, as the growth of ragweed is contrary to the Noxious Weeds Act.

The Toronto Community Council submits the following report (October 5, 1998) from the Commissioner, Urban Planning and Development Services:

Purpose:

To provide information to Toronto Community Council regarding a request from the owner for a natural garden exemption for 56 Gilmour Avenue in Ward 19, submitted in response to a notice served requiring that long grass and weeds be cut.

Source of Funds:

Not applicable.

Recommendations:

(1)That City Council grant an exemption under Municipal Code, Chapter 202, Section 202-2D to cancel the served notice and to allow a natural garden to remain at 56 Gilmour Avenue;

OR

(2)That City Council confirm the served notice and direct that a second notice be given under Municipal Code, Chapter 202, Section 202-2D requiring the cutting of grass and weeds, as prescribed in the regulations.

Council Reference/Background/History:

Toronto Municipal Code, Chapter 202 regulates Atall grass and weeds@, requiring same to be cut upon receipt of a served notice. This regulation also provides for an exemption which may be requested on receipt of such a notice, on the basis that the lands form a natural garden. This exemption is required under the regulation to be reported on for decision by City Council. Background information is set out in this report to assist Council.

Comments and/or Discussion and/or Justification:

A notice was served to the owner of the property known as 56 Gilmour Avenue in Ward 19 to require that grass and weeds be cut, in accordance with Toronto Municipal Code, Chapter 202. A letter was received, dated September 23rd, 1998, from the owner requesting exemption from grass and weed cutting requirements on the basis that the property contains a natural garden.

On September 29th, 1998, Parks staff reported that this garden included native perennials which had been planted and were observed as being well taken care of, with the exception of the presence of some ragweed. The growth of ragweed is contrary to the Noxious Weeds Act. Parks staff advise that they will follow up to ensure the removal of the ragweed. This information is included to assist Council in rendering their decision.

Conclusions:

This report is submitted for information to Council in deciding whether or not to exempt the subject lands as a natural garden.

Contact Name:

Judi McBurney

Technical Advisor, Urban Planning and Development

392-7963

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The Toronto Community Council reports for the information of Council, also having had before it the following communication (November 9, 1998) from Ms. Susan Meurer, and a copy thereof is on file in the office of the City Clerk.