There’s nothing like holding a ratepayer association’s Annual General Meeting to remind us, once again, how needed such groups are. And how important it is to keep in touch with residents’ concerns.
Leasiders are not shrinking violets when it comes to expressing opinions about what they (you) want protected, improved, and opposed. The Leaside Residents Association (LRA) is fortunate to work for a community which is well defined – and well regarded across the city. Our policies are community-driven.
Having said this, we depend not only on your guidance, we also depend on your becoming members of the LRA. Your donations and memberships renewed annually make our work possible.
What do you get with your membership dues? You get our board, comprising Leasiders who represent your positions on development and traffic issues at the Committee of Adjustment and appeal bodies; at North York Community Council; and at City committees and Council.
You get the LRA meeting with City planners on numerous local and city-wide development applications and policies, and sending out e-blasts to keep residents informed. We have a close working relationship with our Councillor, Jaye Robinson.
We write a lot of letters and reports on a wide range of topics. Among them: Metrolinx Crosstown construction complaints, noise problems, traffic infiltration, heritage issues, faulty house renovation practices and other bylaw infractions. When you contact us with your questions, we try to find answers.
When necessary, the LRA hires planners and/or legal consultants to prepare formal deputations and support the community’s positions. We hold an annual meeting, as well as monthly board meetings on the first Wednesday of each month which are open to the public, whether the meetings are by Zoom or in person.
Who are the LRA board of directors? We include two architects with experience in residential and commercial projects; a former insurance executive; three lawyers with extensive and varied experience; two professional planners with provincial and municipal backgrounds; and I am a former current affairs television producer. None of us has financial or professional interests with any applications we review.
We are all volunteers. We are also your neighbours.
Would you like to join us on the board? You do not need to be an expert, you only need to be interested in what’s going on in the community, and interested in playing a part in keeping Leaside a good place to live.
Your memberships support our work. We urge you to join the LRA with an annual $30 membership, and to renew if you’re already a member, by visiting our website (lpoa.ca).
