Dear Resident,
I want to extend my thanks to everyone who joined us on Thursday, April 9th for the latest community meeting on the proposed development at 3100 Weston Road. This marked our second opportunity to come together on this application, and it was meaningful to see so many residents engaged in the discussion.
The site in question is home to several valued spaces, including and the former St. Basil-the-Great College School, now the Carmine Stefano Community Centre, the Marian Shrine of Gratitude and the Rivermede House. These places hold deep significance for many in the community, and it was important to hear directly from those who have used and cherish them.
Several key concerns were raised at the meeting. The local road network is at or near capacity. Opening more driveways on Weston Road will further exacerbate traffic problems. The surrounding area already lacks the amenities to support its current population. With several approved developments along Weston Road set to bring thousands of new residents, this gap will only grow. Current provincial planning rules have made it easier for developers to bypass municipal processes, and the result has been increased pressure on communities that are already underserved.
I will be voting against this development.
The lack of amenities in the area is especially evident when it comes to access to food. The area is effectively a food desert, with the nearest grocery stores located far outside the community. Addressing this issue is one of the reasons I recently introduced a motion at City Council to launch a pilot project for City-operated non-profit grocery stores across Toronto.
The proposal would establish four grocery stores, prioritized in neighbourhoods with limited access to affordable food and lower household incomes. To keep prices as low as possible, the model would include City supports such as waiving property taxes and development charges. It would also leverage the City’s purchasing power by coordinating food procurement across programs like school food initiatives, seniors’ residences, and other municipal services. This approach would help reduce costs while supporting local and regional food producers. City staff will study the idea and chart out a path for us to open the stores. This report is expected in next year.
Toronto has always been a city that rises to meet its challenges. If we are serious about addressing food deserts in our communities and making life more affordable, we need to take bold steps and this is one of them.
Yours truly,
City Councillor
Anthony Perruzza
Ward 7, Humber River-Black Creek