Tree Removal - 2 May Square (Midtown)

The Toronto Community Council recommends that City Council refuse to issue a permit for tree removal at 2 May Square.

The Toronto Community Council submits the following report (August 24, 1999) from the Commissioner Economic Development, Culture and Tourism:

Purpose:

An application for a permit to remove one tree on private property that is growing at the rear of the property has been filed by Al Miley & Associates, 3266 Yonge Street, Suite 1416, Toronto, M4N 3P6, agent for the owner's of 2 May Square, John Cameron Dalsto and David Howard Ballett, 2 May Square, Toronto, M4W 1S8.

Financial Implication:

N/A

Recommendation:

Either 1, or 2 below

(1)refuse to issue a permit for tree removal; or

(2)issue a permit for tree removal conditional on the applicant agreeing to plant a replacement tree to the satisfaction of the Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism.

Comments:

The tree in question is an eighty-eight centimetre diameter red oak in fair condition. The red oak tree is native to Toronto's urban forest and this particular specimen is located adjacent to the designated Park Drive ravine and therefore is an important seed source. The tree is a viable specimen and if monitored regularly by a qualified tree expert it should remain as a significant asset to the community for many years to come. If approval is granted for the removal of the oak tree, it should be conditional on the planting of a large growing native shade tree or trees as replacement.

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. One written objection was received in response to the application to remove the tree in question. A copy of this letter has been forwarded to the Community Council Secretary for the Community Council to review.

Contact Name:

Andrew Pickett, 392-6644

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Mr. Frank J. Sperduti, Borden & Elliott, appeared before the Toronto Community Council in connection with the foregoing matter.

(A copy of the letter referred to in the foregoing report was forwarded to all Members of the Toronto Community Council with the agenda for its meeting on September 14, 1999, and a copy thereof is on file in the office of the City Clerk).