The first problem occurred Saturday afternoon, when the work crew at what was 2 Twenty Seventh Street knocked out power to part of our street for hours by hitting power lines with their equipment.

In the past few days they also dug up the roots close to a number of healthy mature trees. I recall discussion at the OMB hearing on the Consent to Sever this property about how trees would be protected by using piers rather than normal foundations in areas near trees. Neighbours in attendance were assured that trees would be protected, and it would be possible to successfully squeeze the proposed two giant homes on the severed properties without damage to them. What happened to this plan? Orange tree protection fencing was only put up around the one large silver maple at the front of the property, and not around any of the spruces on the south side of the property nor around the white ash on the north side. We understand that approval was given early on for removal of a mature apple and a mature gingko on the property, both in fair condition, to make way for this development. I don’t know if any other trees were finally approved for removal by Forestry.

There were City of Toronto vehicles out in front of the property for much of the day yesterday. Neighbours told us work had been stopped at the site, but I have no confirmation from The City as to what that means. I wasn’t able to get out there during the day to find out first hand what was going on, because of my ankle injury. Sheila went out after walking the dogs to take a couple pictures. One of the Forestry people told her that a number of trees have to come down as they now pose a danger to homes and people. They took tops off a number of trees yesterday.

I am aware that Councillor Grimes has spoken to at least one of our neighbours already and has asked that video and photographs taken by neighbours be sent to his office.  I’m encouraged that our Councillor has been quickly responsive. I’m also very pleased to see a number of concerned neighbours have been very active reacting to the tree damage.

I welcome comments to this blog from the owners of this property, from our Councillor and our Mayor, and from neighbours who live near the property.

We’re concerned there is not enough protection for the community when the shovel hits the ground.