Tree Removal - 326 Kennedy Avenue (High Park)

The Toronto Community Council recommends that City Council issue a permit for tree removal at 326 Kennedy Avenue, conditional on the planting of a replacement tree to the satisfaction of the Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism.

The Toronto Community Council submits the following report (September 20, 1999) from the Commissioner Economic Development, Culture and Tourism:

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

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

(2)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

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The Toronto Community Council reports, for the information of Council, having also had before it during consideration of the foregoing matter, a communication (October 9, 1999) from Mr. George B. Kolos, and a copy thereof is on file in the office of the City Clerk.