Tree Removal -

179 Teddington Park Avenue (North Toronto)

The Toronto Community Council recommends that City Council issue a permit for tree removal at 179 Teddington Park Avenue conditional on the applicant agreeing to plant a replacement tree to the satisfaction of the Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture & Tourism.

The Toronto Community Council submits the following report (November 25, 1998) from the Commissioner, Economic Development, Culture & Tourism:

Purpose:

An application for a permit to remove one tree on private property that causes concern due to I) the proximity of the tree to the house, ii) cracking of the driveway and iii) necessary drain repairs has been filed by Mr. David Hart Etlin, 179 Teddington Park Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4N 2C7, owner of 179 Teddington Park Avenue.

Financial Implications:

N/A

Recommendations:

Either 1, or 2 below

(1)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 & Tourism;

(2)refuse to issue a permit for tree removal.

Comments:

The tree in question is a ninety-seven centimetre diameter silver maple in fair condition. The report prepared by Bostock Tree Service that accompanies this application states that the tree is viable and healthy and can be made safe by replacing all the existing cables and by selective pruning. The report also states that there have been problems with the drains in the past and recommends replacing the pipes to prevent further problems. The report also indicates the presence of a pruning wound on the main stem that could jeopardize the structural stability of the tree. The pruning wound would have to be examined in greater detail to determine the extent of decay that may be present. The silver maple is a common tree in Toronto's urban forest and if a permit for removal is issued there is sufficient space on the property for the planting of a large growing replacement tree.

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

Telephone:(416) 392-6644

Facsimile:(416) 392-6657,

e-mail:apickett@city.toronto.on.ca

The Toronto Community Council also submits the communication (December 1, 1998) from Councillor Walker, addressed to the Commissioner of Ecomonic Development, Culture and Tourism:

Enclosed is a copy of a letter I received from constituents I represent, Mr. and Mrs. Etlin of 179 Teddington Park Avenue, requesting my support for the removal of a silver leaf maple tree in their front yard on private property. The item is going to Toronto Community Council on December 9, 1998 and is before the full Council on December 16, 1998.

According to the residents, the mature tree has been a source of many problems and has forced them to incur several thousand dollars in expenses over the past eight years. Problems have included: cracking and uprooting of their driveway; drain blockages; the need for ongoing trimming/cabling of tree limbs and damage to their roof. The residents have offered to replace the silver leaf maple with another tree.

For these reasons, I support the residents request and ask that you report directly to Toronto Community Council on the issue. I appreciate your assistance in this matter.

(A copy of the letter referred to in the foregoing communication is on file in the office of the City Clerk).