The York Mills–Leslie Residents Association (YMLRA) met on Sept. 28 to discuss fundraising options to help oppose the stacked townhouse development proposed on the corner of York Mills Road and Leslie Road at the upcoming Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) hearing on Jan. 10. 

The proposal for 260 townhouses at 740–750 York Mills Rd. was rejected by Toronto City Council in June, and the developer, Minto Group Inc., appealed to the OMB shortly after. Despite being refused by Toronto City Council, the proposal earned a favourable report from city staff. However, local residents have cited concerns pertaining to over-intensification of the site, a loss of green space and mature trees, and an increase of traffic.

The YMLRA has asked its members for contributions of $200 per household to reach the goal of $100,000 in order to hire a planner and legal counsel. Members are also being asked to recruit residents to the group.

According to vice-president of development for Minto Properties Inc., Matthew Kingston, “Minto Properties is continuing to work with the councillor, city staff and local residents to hear their feedback and explore potential options for the vision of this community. As always, our view is to find a mutually acceptable plan for all parties,” he said.

A statement was released by Sherman Brown Barristers & Solicitors, the firm representing Minto, stating the development would reduce the number of units from 260 to only 204 in order to dedicate land for greenery and park space and would also reduce the parking area needed. 

YMLRA president Tom Weinberger said the group remains receptive to revisions but will continue to prepare for the hearing.

“[The association will] continue to negotiate with Minto about the size and scope of their proposed project, with a view to potentially downsize it, but leave the option open for opposition at the OMB level,” he said.