Following a tearful delegation from one of his tenants to the Planning and Environment Committee (PEC), as well as questions from concerned Council members, a local developer tells CTV News that he has a plan for residents who would be displaced by the proposed redevelopment of the property. A planning application by York Developments seeks permission to construct a 30-storey residential tower at the northeast corner of Ridout Street and Kent Street. However, construction would require the demolition of the existing apartments on the site including the building at 550 Ridout St. On Wednesday, a woman who lives in the building began to cry after telling the planning committee about her fear, “of having my home ripped out from under me again.” She subsequently told CTV News that the older building provides a stable and safe apartment at a rent she can afford. During the PEC meeting Coun. Sam Trosow referenced her delegation, “One of the things that really strikes me from the public participation meeting, is when we make these planning decisions there are human costs.” Coun. Corrine Rahman wanted an assurance that the current residents would not be displaced, “It would be really helpful if there was more information in the motion, or something subsequent, about how the current residents in those buildings will be compensated or how they will be assisted.” In a statement to CTV News, the president of York Developments made a commitment to the current residents. Ali Soufan stated, “We definitely have a plan for relocation and compensation of tenants in good standing. I’ll provide more information in a news release next week.” The planning committee voted (3 to 1) to recommend approval of the high-rise despite a staff report that recommended refusal because the building would be too tall for the North Talbot neighbourhood. Although not a voting member of PEC, Rahman offered advice to the York Developments ahead of next month’s council meeting, “I would suggest the developer also take some time to communicate with council about how you are going to make this right for those that live in those buildings.” Council will make a final decision on March 3.
