September 20, 1999
To:Toronto Community Council
From:Joe Halstead, Commissioner Economic Development, Culture and Tourism
Subject:326 Kennedy Avenue - Removal of Private Tree, Ward 19 - High Park
Purpose:
An application for a permit to remove one tree on private property has been filed by Mr Jody Steiger, Ontario Tree Experts
Inc., agent for the owner Mr. John Pow, 326 Kennedy Avenue, Toronto, M6P 3C3. The owner is concerned that the tree is
causing the garage floor slab to heave and crack.
Financial Implications:
N/A
Recommendations:
Either 1, or 2 below
- refuse to issue a permit for tree removal; or
- issue a permit for tree removal conditional on the planting of a replacement tree to the satisfaction of the Commissioner
of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism.
Comments:
The tree in question is a 41 centimetre diameter white spruce in fair condition. The tree is growing inches from the
northwest corner of the garage and at this time there is no visible evidence of damage to the garage from the exterior of the
structure. Past pruning has elevated the crown of the tree to provide clearance from the walls and roof of the garage. The
arborist report prepared by Ontario Tree Experts Inc., that accompanies the application, states that the tree is in good health
with no insect or disease problems evident. In the report it states that there are some structural concerns because the tree
has been elevated and is presently moderately top heavy. The report concludes that the tree is causing the garage pad to
heave and crack and that the owner is willing to plant a replacement red oak or linden further from the garage. There is a 29
centimetre diameter Norway spruce adjacent to the white spruce that is not protected under the private tree by-law.
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
