January 4, 1998
To:Toronto Community Council
From:Commissioner, Economic Development, Culture & Tourism
Subject:706 1/2 Gerrard Street East, Toronto, Ward 25 (Don River) - Municipal Code,
Chapter 331, Article III, Trees
Purpose:
An application for a permit to remove one tree on private property that has caused concern
due to falling fruit has been filed by Mr. Que Nguyet Chau, 706 1/2 Gerrard Street East,
Toronto, Ontario, M4M 1Y3, owner of 706 1/2 Gerrard Street East.
Financial Implications:
N/A
Recommendations:
Either 1, or 2 below
- refuse to issue a permit for tree removal;
- issue a permit for tree removal.
Comments:
The tree in question is a fifty centimetre diameter horsechestnut in fair condition. The
applicant is concerned with the falling chestnuts and the threat that they pose to his children.
The fruit of the chestnut is approximately six centimetres in diameter and in certain years the
tree will produce an abundant crop that can be a nuisance when the fruit ripens in September.
The tree in question provides an aesthetic screen between the properties located on Gerrard
Street East and those located on Simpson Avenue. The view from both sides would be
significantly changed if the chestnut tree were to be removed. The chestnut tree should be
pruned by a qualified tree expert to repair improper pruning cuts that have occurred in the
past. The pruning will also provide some clearance of branches overhanging the applicant's
rear yard.
A notice of application sign was posted on the property for the required 14 day posting period,
in order to notify the neighbourhood and provide an opportunity for objection to the
application. Two written objections were received in response to the application to remove the
tree in question. Copies of these letters have been forwarded to the Community Council
Secretary for the Community Council to review.
Contact Name:
Andrew Pickett
Telephone:(416) 392-6644
Facsimile:(416) 392-6657
e-mail:apickett@toronto.ca
Joe Halstead
Commissioner, Economic Development, Culture & Tourism
___AEP
bcc:Councillor Jack Layton, Suite 207, Metro Hall
Councillor Pam McConnell, Suite 5, Toronto City Hall
(p:\1998\ug\cms\prk\to980107.prk)
