John Parker
Why Official Plan is a problem
One of the mysteries of municipal government – and one of its most misunderstood functions – is the role of the municipality in land development matters. Let’s see if I can shed some light on …more
Articles by Guest Contributor
Karen Fraser
‘Lettuce heeah the wud of Gud’
In a blur of classes, exams and metal locker doors slamming, certain teacher moments stand out in my mind’s eye. Mr. Patterson was our math teacher. He was the toughest man any of us had …more
John Parker
No transition to PO plan
One major development application currently under consideration in our community is the proposal to redevelop the former post office site at 2 Laird Dr. The new owners have submitted a proposal to demolish the existing …more
Stories
Bennington belongs with Leaside
Once a decade, following the census, electoral districts are adjusted to reflect population shifts and growth. The Electoral Boundaries Commission must try to keep all ridings approximately the same size while attempting to respect municipal …more
John Parker
‘Somehow all my fault? Oh well’
Earlier this month the proposed new SmartCentre on the north side of Wicksteed Ave. was approved by unanimous vote of North York Community Council. After all the controversy, innuendo, name calling, etc. attached to this …more
Stories
Community is more than just a home
In reading about the early days of Leaside, I have been struck by how clearly the original planners understood that a successful, healthy community must be more than just homes where people sleep at night. …more
John Parker
My vote is no casino
Enough letters to my office on this topic have come from Leaside residents to satisfy me that it merits attention in my Leaside Life column. So here goes: I oppose any proposal to invite a …more
John Parker
Give lights a chance
It has been a few months now since the new traffic signal lights went in at the intersection of Laird and McRae/Wicksteed but I continue to receive calls and messages about them. Some people think …more
John Parker
Biggest project in our history
It’s the biggest community project currently under way in the city and – at a contract price in excess of $11 million – the biggest in Leaside’s history. And now that the structural steel is …more
John Parker
Transit changes will help Leaside
Much has happened on my transit file since the showdown that shook up the TTC commission earlier this year. Two developments in this regard should be of particular interest to Leaside residents: 1. Eglinton LRT …more