September 20, 1999
To:Toronto Community Council
From:Joe Halstead, Commissioner Economic Development, Culture and Tourism
Subject:486-488 Russell Hill Road - Removal of Private Tree - Ward 23 - Midtown
Purpose:
An application for a permit to remove one tree on private property has been filed by Mr. Davide Carnevale, The Tree
Specialists Inc., agent for the owner of 486-488 Russell Hill Road, Mr. David Cynamon, 98 Dunloe Road, Toronto, M5P
2T8. The owner would like to demolish the two existing houses and construct one new home on the properties.
Financial Implications:
N/A
Recommendations:
Either 1, or 2 below
- refuse to issue a permit for tree removal requiring the owner to redesign the proposed new home to incorporate the
private tree; or
- issue a permit for tree removal conditional on: i) the tree in question not being removed until permitted construction
and/or demolition related activities in accordance with plans approved under the building permit application for the
subject project commence which warrant the destruction of the tree. ii) the applicant implementing a landscape plan
acceptable to the Commissioner Economic Development, Culture and Tourism.
Comments:
The tree in question is an 84 centimetre diameter white oak in fair condition. The arborist report prepared by the Tree
Specialists Inc. which accompanies the application states that the white oak previously suffered a large storm break
resulting in the loss of its central leader. The report states that the crown consists mainly of suckergrowth and there is
minor shoot tip dieback throughout the crown. The report concludes that the owner does not wish to maintain this tree and
has committed to planting two 80 millimetre caliper native shade trees if approval is granted to remove the white oak.
The white oak tree is under stress due to its location in the driveway and the drought conditions we have experienced this
summer. The leaves are chlorotic and there is evidence of the leaf fungus anthracnose. Having noted the difficulties the tree
is experiencing, it is a significant native species that is still viable and significant in the community. The proposed
construction will be extensive and without making substantial changes to the proposed new house, the white oak will be
impacted significantly and the likelihood of the tree surviving is minimal.
There is a magnificent 135 centimetre diameter red oak at the rear of 488 Russell Hill Road near the north property line.
This tree will be protected during construction with the installation of plywood hoarding at a radius of 5 metres from the
main stem. The arborist has been contracted to ensure that this tree is protected during all phases of construction.
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. No written objections were received in
response to the application to remove the tree in question.
Contact Name:
Andrew Pickett
392-6644
Joe Halstead
Commissioner Economic Development, Culture and Tourism
