A Big Hole in the Streetscape for Winter Time

This picture speaks for itself! (click image to spread & enlarge it)
Home Smith once famously said "Do we want to be like Birmingham or Pittsburgh or do we want to be like Paris or London?". With neighbourly values like those displayed in the 66 Baby Point matter, and a development policy that aids and abets developers like this, it appears we are on our way to being the former.

Lorne Bozinoff President of Forum Research of Toronto is a specialist in public opinion with corporate and government clientele. Yet, he failed to consider the significant statistic of 150 of his neighbours opposed to his plan to demolish a 1923 Arts & Crafts home, and erect a home that is nearly three times the size of his local neighbours. The beautiful Arts & Crafts home was a striking anchor feature of the Home Smith Baby Point Circle, occupying the key position in the sweeping circle for which Home Smith's design is famous. His new home, a 6800 sq.ft home has been the subject of considerable controversy. Despite repeated attempts by the Baby Point neighbourhood to reach out to Mr. Bozinoff, he has failed on the scorecard of basic neighbourly values and proceeded in a decidedly questionable manner relative to his expertise in analyzing public opinion.

Demolition begins on 66 Baby Point (click title => BPHF Website

• LISA RAINFORD
• Toronto Online & The Villager|
• Nov 30, 2010 - 11:31 AM

Demolition begins on Baby Point cottage

Demolition begins on Baby Point cottage. Despite the protests of the Concerned Residents of Baby Point Circle, the city-approved demolition of a 1920s Arts and Craft Cottage at 66 Baby Point Road began early Tuesday morning, Nov. 30. Courtesy photo

Members of the Concerned Residents of Baby Point Circle are devastated that demolition began early Tuesday morning Nov. 30 on a neighbouring 1920s Arts and Craft cottage.

Seven months ago, Toronto City Council granted its owners, Lorne Bozinoff and his wife, site plan approval making them eligible for a building permit. The couple are demolishing the historic Robert Home Smith-designed one-and-a-half storey house at 66 Baby Point Rd. to make room for a 5,800-square foot, three-storey detached dwelling.

Bozinoff has said it will blend in with the others on the Baby Point Circle.

Unable to connect with the Bozinoffs, neighbours were only able to speculate when exactly the demolition would commence, but signs that it was imminent began popping up last week.

"We can only infer that this is going to happen," said 40-year Baby Point resident Dr. Robert Galway Thursday, Nov. 25, pointing out that a utility company arrived Nov. 24 to cut off electricity to 66 Baby Point Rd.

Galway took photographs depicting spray-painted markings on the lawn outlining the position of water and electricity service locations and trees being cut down.

Calls to Bozinoff and an email to his lawyer requesting comment were not returned by The Villager's deadline.

More than 150 people - 90 per cent of the neighbourhood - have registered their opposition against the project saying its size is more than twice as large as the homes around it. The adjacent homes average 2,700 square feet. The Bozinoffs' house would be two-and-a-half times larger than the average, said Galway.

"Just two weeks ago, I ran into a lady whose grandfather had been one of Home Smith's architects. She said her grandfather would say (Home Smith) was really meticulous in his demands for perfection. The wide spaces in Baby Point are not by accident," said Galway. "Bozinoff has really shown disdain for the heritage of the neighbourhood that goes back 300 years."

Since the Bozinoffs purchased the property two-and-a-half years ago, Galway said he and his neighbours have been waiting in vain for any indication that the couple has any intention of adapting their plans to better integrate the house with the existing heritage of the neighbourhood.

At a public meeting, March 25, Bozinoff said he was attracted to the Baby Point area for its historical character.

"This has me a little bit puzzled," said Kevin O'Doherty, who has lived in Baby Point for eight years. "It's the character of the neighbourhood that's going to be affected by the demolition."

Six-year resident of the neighbourhood Wendy Brown said that even though the Bozinoffs are within their rights, according to the bylaws, "it's a unique house."

"You'd think they'd want to preserve it," she said.

Councillor-elect Sarah Doucette said she has been in contact with city officials via email (she was not permitted to meet with them personally until Dec. 1 when she will be sworn in as councillor).

"I've just been double-checking to see if everything is in order," said Doucette, who has met with Baby Point residents. "I felt approaching the homeowner would be over-stepping my mark as councillor-elect. After Dec. 1, I'm going to ask him if the community can have a look at the plans. The community hasn't seen any plans, I think that's their biggest concern. I'm hoping we can negotiate some changes."

In the meantime, Doucette confirmed that Bozinoff had secured demolition and building permits. And, the trees he had cut down were approved by Toronto's urban forestry department.

The Concerned Residents of Baby Point Circle are in the midst of pursuing the possibility of a heritage conservation district designation to stop any future building projects of this nature. Visit www.babypointheritage.ca for further details.

The Final Step in the Demolition of 66 Baby Point Rd.; Nov 30, 2010

It started on this cold, damp and grey November morning with the sounds of bricks crashing, a chimney falling, glass tinkling as it tumbled to smashed concrete below..... the last of a period house, the centre piece of almost 90 years of residential history in the Baby Point Circle.

Done, demolished and dumped in a dirty truck. A chapter written by Lorne Bozinoff with an unhappy ending for all concerned.

If this were a Thai house, the spirits will be displeased. This is not a blessed "Feng Shui" place.

Home Smith once famously said "Do we want to be like Birmingham or Pittsburgh or do we want to be like Paris or London?". With neighbourly values like those displayed in the 66 Baby Point matter, and a development policy that aids and abets developers like this, it appears we are on our way to being the former.

Lorne Bozinoff President of Forum Research of Toronto is a specialist in public opinion with corporate and government clientele. Yet, he failed to consider the significant statistic of 150 of his neighbours opposed to his plan to demolish a 1923 Arts & Crafts home, and erect a home that is nearly three times the size of his local neighbours. The beautiful Arts & Crafts home was a striking anchor feature of the Home Smith Baby Point Circle, occupying the key position in the sweeping circle for which Home Smith's design is famous. His new home, a 6800 sq.ft home has been the subject of considerable controversy. Despite repeated attempts by the Baby Point neighbourhood to reach out to Mr. Bozinoff, he has failed on the scorecard of basic neighbourly values and proceeded in a decidedly questionable manner relative to his expertise in public opinion.

66 Baby Point Rd.

This wonderful example of an Arts & Craft style house that populates the majority if not all of Home Smith's Humber Valley Survey developments is facing demolition in the very near future.

The trees are cut, the gas is off, the overlooked water service is now secured and the owners finally remembered to come and unlock the door to let Hydro do its thing.

It is now a dead house and no longer a home. The evisceration has started. The antique 19th Century all marble fireplace imported yesteryear from Europe has felt the hammer. The eight inch planked solid oak floors will be the next to go. Then the 4-1/2 ft. walnut/oak wainscotting. The finale will be the dust that settles around the custom crown molded celings when they come crashing down. The chandeliers will never see light in this splendid house that was once a home.

New trees, new lawn, new home, none will replace this one being torn from the ground.

The Demolition of 66 Baby Point Road Continues

Another Utility bites the dust!

Not anymore...They are knocking me down!

November 27th., 2010

The water is off and the trees are gone
The lawn is not cut and the tenant has gone
The hydro is not off but that won't be long
Now only a dead house but once a home...
No music, no laughter, not a hint of a song!

Not anymore, they are knocking me down.

Demolition marches On - November 26, 2010

November 26th., 2010

Utility Crew arrives to shut off water at 66 Baby Point Road

Workman asks "Are these people nuts ?"



Now ain't that the truth... the Emporer's clothes fable in our own front yard.

The common man knows reality when he sees it day in & day out

Update on Impending Demolition of 66 Baby Point Rd

Update:

November 24th saw the utility people arrive to cut of the electricity to 66 Baby Point Road. Demolition Derby is just around the corner even though winter is almost upon us.

If 66 Baby Point Road was like the family homestead above, then demolition would be understandable. However, truth be told, it isn't and in spite of statements by the owners that this Arts & Crafts style home has "bad bones" this claim challenges credulity... a home with wide planked oak floors, wainscoting to covet and so on!

All this and more have waited for a new owner with imagination, sensitivity to local concerns and a commitment to heritage preservation.. It is not to be!

Robert Home Smith, Conn Smythe and the ghosts of Babys' past, among others, are probably rolling over in their graves at this display of architectural sacrilege and hubris.

Demolition of 66 Baby Point Road Underway

November 14, 2010

The final chapter in the desecration of an historic neighbourhood has commenced. Note the markings on the lawn outlining the position of water & electricity service locations!

Seven months has passed since Mr. & Mrs. Lorne Bozinoff were granted site plan approval by City Council to demolish a 90 year old home at 66 Baby Point Road and erect in its place a 7,000 sq ft. three story home.

The majority of the neighbourhood registered their opposition to this project at every level available to them. All to no effect. Over the last 2-1/2 years since the Property was purchased by the Bozinoffs' they have awaited in vain for communication from the principals that they would modify or adapt there plans in order to integrate them with the existing built culture and heritage of this historic neighbourhood.

This neighbourhood was created by the forethought and vision of the late Robert Home Smith, and his design associates in the Toronto Land Corporation and the Humber Valley Estates. A responsible land development company that brought in to existence the Kingsway,the Old Mill, Riverside Drive among others.

The establishment of fully treed and wide street scapes, with judicious placement of the homes and the creation of spacious apertures between individual houses achieved an eye pleasing vista throughout the Baby Point Region. A built culture that rivals any other residential area in the City of Toronto for aesthetics and sensitivity to the geography of the area, that on the north or Baby Point Road side, includes the slope lands of the Humber River ravine.

The Community Council got it wrong, The City Council got it wrong. Councillor Bill Saundercook got it wrong as the recent election demonstrated, and those residents of the area that support this undertaking have also got it wrong.

The present home at 66 Baby Point Road is a central feature of the street scape that limits the Baby Point Circle on the north side of that area. It has what is called by Toronto Preservation Services, "contributory value" to the integrity of the area. It not only has that distinction, but in point of fact, it contributes more to the integrity of the area than any single other home in that group.

Several individuals who support the project, have commented that the available drawings of the new edifice look "nice". Mr. Bozinoff has publicly stated "you will like my new house".

However, they have all missed the point. The oversized new home cannot take on the role of being the "lynch pin" that integrates the architectural diversity of the north side of "Baby Point Circle". In fact, it will destroy it.

The contributory role played by 66 Baby Point Road in forming the aesthetics of the present streetscape did not happen by accident. It is the result of careful architectural design and land use planning. The placement of the present house on the curvature of the street creates a focal point that leads the eye in a gentle sweep around the curve of the north side of Baby Point Rd. It is the centrepiece of the seven homes that form the northern residential boundary of "The "Circle".

The relatively smaller size of this house assures that it does not dominate the streetscape but passively embraces it and melds quietly into it. The wide space between the adjacent homes is the design feature that achieves a sense of spaciousness for the neighbourhood.

Finally, the "Arts and Craft" design is sufficiently varied from the adjacent six homes that it creates a sense of individual identity to each of them while seamlessly integrating all of them into a visual tapestry that embraces the open spaces of "The Circle" to the south.

The demolition of this house cannot be viewed in isolation. The adverse effect on the remaining homes and the Baby Point Circle street scape is incalculable. However, let there be no doubt, the effect will be profoundly negative and irreversible.

The size of the new home, at twice the size on average of the adjacent homes, insures that it will dominate the street. Its placement will not be on the previous footprint, but on a new setback line. As a consequence, this will disrupt the visual rythym of the "en echelon" placement of the remaining houses as designed by Home Smith's architects and land use planners.

In addition, the lot line to lot line occupation of the property will significantly diminish the sense of spaciousness that is the hallmark of the neighbourhood by eliminating the wide visual apertures and associated sightlines to the north.

It has been said that money has no ethics, it also has no sense of aesthetic values. In all cases these attributes derive from the individual in whose pockets the money rests.

Over the century that has passed since Home Smith acquired the Baby Point lands (once the historic home lands of Sir James Baby) it has been the unspoken commitment that those who came to live in this historic neighbourhood, or aspire to live here recognizing the areas unique character and heritage, would respect the original design covenants established by Home Smith.

It is a large responsibility, but one which is easy to transgress if one is not mindful of the above maxim.

It is now universally recognized ,with the benefit of hindsight, that the only protection that historic enclaves such as Baby Point have, in the face of the onslaught of expressions of wealth and personal ambition, is the protection offered by designation as a Heritage Conservation District.

However, the barriers to achieving this distinction are many, including significant financial considerations. Consequently, an HCD may be beyond reach in the immediate future! It will require a major commitment by the community at large and major support at both the governmental level of the city and at the provincial level to achieve this goal.

Destruction of 66 Baby Point Rd. Site starts To-day

November 11, 2010 Tree Cutters Arrive

Baby Point Heritage Foundation

We have completed the incorporation of

The Baby Point Heritage Foundation (BPHF)

August 20,2010 as an incorporated entity under Industry Canada guidelines.

http://www.babypointheritage.ca/indexbph.html

Response to New Bylaw Re:Density Allowance

BY eMAIL

pgmc@toronto.ca

August 19, 2010

City Clerk

Attn: Merle MacDonald

Administrator, Planning and Growth Management Committee

Toronto City Hall

100 Queen Street West

10th Floor, West Tower

Toronto, ON, M5H 2N2

Dear Madam:

RE: Written Submission with respect to the Proposed City Wide Zoning By-law in relation to proposed Zone RD (x1209) and the exceptions on Baby Point Road from the proposed Zoning By-law

I am writing on behalf of the Baby Point Heritage Foundation, which is a corporation, with respect to the above noted matter which I understand is to be considered by City Council at their meeting of August 25/26, 2010.

The Baby Point area is a truly significant community from a cultural heritage perspective. Originally a Seneca village, the lands were then settled in 1816 by James Baby, a member of the Family Compact, before being developed by Home Smith commencing in 1912. The focus of this area is the ‘Point’ which is located on a peninsula of land or ‘point’ overlooking the Humber River, generally in the area west of Humbercrest Blvd.

The Baby Point Heritage Foundation has recently been formed to ensure that the heritage of this remarkable area is protected for future generations through the creation of a Heritage Conservation District. The Board of the Foundation currently consists of four committed individuals from the neighbourhood including the undersigned.

Based on our review of the proposed By-law, the majority of the ‘Point’ is proposed to be zoned “RD(x1209)” with two properties, one of which is 66 Baby Point Road, being exempted from the Zoning By-law apparently because of recent development approvals.

The proposal for 66 Baby Point Road generated considerable concern in the neighbourhood because of the ‘over sized’ building which is proposed. This building, while it conforms with the existing zoning regulations, is completely out of keeping with the heritage character of the area. It is through the review of this application that we, and others in the neighbourhood, became aware of issues with the existing zoning regulations.

In reviewing the most recent version of the proposed City-wide Zoning By-law, we expected that the concerns with the current By-law would be addressed. Unfortunately, based on our review, that does not seem to be the case. In fact, the regulations do not appear to take into account in any material way the unique character of this area. It is our understanding from a review of the various reports that these regulations have not been developed on the basis of any area study. In the absence of any study, we believe this by-law, if passed, should be very conservative in introducing new standards into any part of the City, and most particularly in a heritage area such as Baby Point. However, that does not seem to be the case.

The specific concerns we have identified with the “RD(x1209)” Zone are as follows:

1. Conservation Overlay

The Bylaw includes a Conservation Overlay which applies to the majority of the land in the RD (x1209) Zone. The Conservation Overlay prohibits development below the stable top of bank or shoreline hazard limit. It also contains a provision in Section 600.30 (4) which states:

"If a shoreline hazard or stable top-of-bank crosses a lot, the portion of the lot below the shoreline hazard limit or stable top-of-bank is not included in the calculation of the floor space index for the lot."

This appears to address an issue with the current zoning by-law. However, the section appears to be flawed in that it refers only to floor space index as a measure of permitted density. This is an issue because the proposed new zoning applicable in the RD (x1209) Zone, does not appear to include a floor space index regulation. Instead the RD (x1209) Zone includes only a maximum coverage requirement. As a consequence of this difference in wording it is questionable whether subsection (4) would apply in the RD (x1209) Zone . This is a concern because if it does not apply, then density from the portion of a lot below the top of bank can be used as part of the calculation of the coverage for any house along the ravine, which includes a significant number of homes on the ‘Point’. This would contribute significantly to the potential for new development which is out of keeping with the heritage character of the area.

2. Coverage/Setbacks

The proposed Bylaw as currently drafted would allow a maximum coverage of 50% of the lot area. Previously the maximum floor space index was 0.4 and there does not seem to be any coverage requirement. The change from the floor space index approach (which relates to the total gross floor area of the building as a percentage of the lot area) to a coverage figure which looks at only the percentage of the lot occupied by a building and with the coverage being a maximum of 50% would appear to allow a significantly larger building foot print then currently permitted.



Further, there does not appear to be any front yard or rear yard setback requirements and the side yard requirement is very minimal at 0.45 for lots under 12m frontage and 0.75 m for lots over 12 m frontage.

The combination of the effect of these new regulations would again appear to contribute significantly to the potential for new development which is out of keeping with the heritage character of the area.

3. Exemptions from the By-law

As noted, two properties are excluded from the proposed new zoning by-law. This area was originally planned in a comprehensive manner. That is a key part of the cultural heritage value of the neighbourhood. It is important that all properties be subject to the same rules with respect to future development.

Based on these concerns, we are requesting that Council defer consideration of this By-law, or at least the RD (x1209) regulations, until appropriate changes can be made to develop regulations for the Baby Point area which will assist in preserving the unique character of the community, rather than allowing for the potential of development which is out of keeping with its unique heritage character. These changes should reflect a more detailed examination of the area and input from the affected community.

Thank you for your consideration of this request, and should you have any questions please contact the undersigned.

Please also accept this letter as written confirmation of our request to be notified in writing of any and all further meetings and notices (including the Notice of Decision for the Zoning By-law).



Your truly,

Dr. Robert Galway

Chairman Baby Point Heritage Foundation

62 Baby Point Road, Toronto M6S 2G3

c.c. Councilor Wm. Saundercook

© 2010 Microsoft Terms Privacy

New Letter to the Villager - May 27, 2010

LETTERS

Preserve heritage, character of Baby Point

Re: Homeowner allowed to demolish Baby Point home, news April 29, 2010

Regrettably, this situation is another example of how modern planning fails to take into consideration the character of an existing neighbourhood. Instead, it permits property re-developers to build out to the limits of the zoning regulations, using their as-of-right to construct modern super-sized buildings that do not fit In with the built heritage fabric of the surrounding neighbourhood.

This is a particular shame when it occurs within an enclave like Baby Point, so closely resembling the original Robert Home Smith tract of architecturally coherent residences, interspersed with later infill development that has for the most part been sensitively designed.

An appeal to the Ontario Municipal Board would achieve little more than a delay for the Project, at monetary expense to the plaintiffs. The proposed building conforms to the existing City of Toronto Official Plan, zoning and site plan regulations, leaving little to no legal grounds upon which to overturn the council decision.

In addition, Ontario's recent Places to Grow-legislation makes the intensification of development in existing neighbourhoods more likely.

Since the current planning framework for they city is unlikely to substantially change any time soon, other approaches may be examined.

Given the distinctive nature of Baby Point ans strong community interest in preserving the distinctive built heritage and cultural heritage landscape, designation as a heritage conservation District under Part V of the Ontario Heritage Act would be an effective mechanism.

This would permit the identification and definition of specific heritage features that make Baby Point what it is, and in doing so, guide future alterations, demolitions and new construction to conform more closely with the existing built form, architectural styles, and materials.

Heritage Conservation Districts are in use across Ontario to successfully maintain the character of distinctive neighbourhoods like Baby Point, while permitting alterations and development that are sympathetic to the original built heritage.

Given the inevitable development pressures within the city, it may be prudent for this community's members to consider this alternative while there is still a neighbourhood to protect.

Signed:
Joseph Muller

Letter to The Villager - May 14, 2010

LETTERS - THE VILLAGER, MAY 14, 2010

Good neighbours are good stewards

To the editor:

Unfortunately, it seems that the butchery of an historically interesting cottage at 66 Baby Point Road is a done deal, along with the degradation of the streetscape that will entail.

As Councillor Bill Saundercook is quoted as saying, the owners are very likely well within their rights." This, of course, is where the problem lies. Owners of such structures need to be made to understand before they buy that, as well as some rights of owner-ship, they are assuming responsibilities of stewardship.

People usually understand this with relation to other types of heritage: would anyone be stupid enough to hand a newly-acquired Rembrandt to another painter (even if the second painter was Monet or Picasso) to paint over it? Would the owner of a Frank Lloyd Wright house ignorantly demolish it to build a modern house, even by the best modern architect?

Robert Home Smith's architectural and streetscaping work in this city, although not world-famous, is remarkable in its style, sense of flow, creation of interlocking vistas, and, apparently, domestic comfort. It is one of the pieces of our urban fabric, which contributes to Toronto's character, in the same manner as the humble bungalow districts in Illinois and California, cottages and townhouses in Britain, and streetscapes or heritage districts in many other parts of the world.

Apparently Toronto doesn't have effective bylaws to protect its buildings from the "rights" of those who don't care about their neighbours, or the character and history of the city as a whole, and who are too self-centered to accept the obligations of steward-ship. We need to start building a framework of more effective by-laws now so that those who come after us don't wonder why they are living in such a boring city.

Megan E. Finlayson

Proposed Footprint of 66 Baby Point Road

Judge for yourself what a 6500 sq ft House will be like related to the two neighbouring houses and a 1.20 metre set in at the sides.

Hi, I'd like to share a Google Maps link with you. 

 Link:

 http://maps.google.com/maps?t=h&hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=43.657365,-79.49376&spn=0,359.998069&z=20&layer=c&cbll=43.657365,-79.494015&panoid=sBZKn5xPKPkXafb_zw4_rQ&cbp=12,266.89,,0,-2.21

Forum Research & Lorne Bozinoff Connection to TTC Revealed

Excerpt from "The Villager April 29, 2009
by Lisa Rainford

After a professional connection came to light between Bozinoff's market research business, Forum Research, and the TTC of which Saundercook is commissioner, the councillor sought advice from the integrity commissioner, who said the information only became known after the entire process had been approved.

Baby Point residents wondered if Saundercook's decision to support the project had anything to do with Forum Research's work for the TTC.

However, Saundercook said he hadn't heard of the connection until April 23. "Had I been aware prior to the application, I would have had to explain, but this was clearly not the case," said Saundercook.

For the complete article in MS Word "click" the Title or
see first letter page above right.

April 23, 2010; Inside Toronto Article - OK to Demolish 66 Baby Point Road

LISA RAINFORD
• Apr 23, 2010 - 4:48 PM
• Inside Toronto article

For complete article go to the first "Page" posted opposite or to this link:

http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/local/article/805069--homeowner-allowed-to-demolish-baby-point-home

Homeowner allowed to demolish Baby Point home.

More than 150 people - 90 per cent of the neighbourhood - have registered their opposition against the project, saying its mass and density is greater than twice as large as the homes around it. The adjacent homes average 2,700 square feet. The Bozinoffs house would be two and a half times larger than the average, said neighbour Robert Galway, who has lived in the area for 40 years.

"I don't understand council's decision when you have a fact like that staring you in the face," he said.

Mary Anne De Monte-Whelan, a Baby Point resident for the past two decades, said most homes in the area have been restored to some extent or another.

"Are we against improving homes? No, lots of us have done it, but there is a certain way of respecting the neighbourhood when you do it," she said. "I've lived in two Robert Home Smith homes and they were extremely architecturally strong homes. It can be done if there's a desire. There are many, many places you can go if you want a monstrous home. This isn't one of those places, they're not in Baby Point."

The optimal approach to this project would be to restore the present property to its former glory, said Galway, while retaining its architectural authenticity and the integrity of the streetscape.

"The architectural foresight of Robert Home Smith, the developer of the Baby Point area, was ahead of his time

His principles of property layout are deserving of respect and should not give way to architectural largesse as is the case associated with this application.

Even though the majority of the neighbourhood opposes the project, dubbed a "McMansion," Saundercook said the "chances at the Ontario Municipal Board were not very favourable to the opposition."

Saundercook said he wanted to work with the owner/applicant and not against him.

Asked how he is dealing with his neighbour's disapproval of his proposed new home, Bozinoff said, "We're mulling over the comments."

TTC and Forum Research

To view the Word Document with active links click on the above Title
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Certain public facts related to the 66 Baby Point Road story have come to the attention of the Concerned Baby Point Residents group. We would appreciate the thoughts of the community on these facts."

Specifically, the owner of 66 Baby Point Rd (Lorne Bozinoff) is owner of Forum Research, a Toronto market research Company with a long-standing relationship with the TTC, for which Bill Saundercook serves as Commissioner. Some residents are concerned that this relationship was not declared.

The facts:

1. Forum Research has a long standing commercial relationship of at least ten years with the TTC. They conducted targeted research projects in 2001 and 2002. Item: TTC Budget $198,320
www3.ttc.ca/search/results.jsp
Enter "Forum Research" in the search box!

2. Described in 2005 as the Commission’s Marketing and Public Affairs Department’s contractor for Targeted Research Studies.
http://www.ttc.ca/postings/gso-comrpt/documents/report/f2418/_conv.htm
Scroll down to the Market Research Report Section

3. Forum Research continued in 2008 to be associated with the TTC as the Commission’s Marketing and Public Affairs Department’s contractor.
This is confirmed by this blog account posted February 10th, 2008.
http://www.nakedknitgirl.ca/

4. Forum Research continues to be associated with the TTC as indicated in the Forum Research Web site posting April 19, 2010. (Under Public Sector)
http//www.forumresearch.com/experienc.asp
Look under Kudos: "Experience" & scroll down to Public Sector.

5. Councillor William Saundercook has been a TTC Commissioner since 2005, and presently is in the running to be the next Chairman.
http://http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/ttc/article/764353---the-ttc-is-a-real-mess

Summary:

It is a matter of public record that the market research firm "Forum Research" has a decade long relationship with the Toronto Transit Commission acting in their words; "as the Commission’s Marketing and Public Affairs Department’s contractor for Targeted Research Studies.

TTC and Forum Research

Certain public facts related to the 66 Baby Point Road story have come to the attention of the Concerned Baby Point Residents group. We would appreciate the thoughts of the community on these facts.

Specifically, the owner of 66 Baby Point Rd (Lorne Bozinoff) is owner of Forum Research, a Toronto market research Company with a long-standing relationship with the TTC, for which Bill Saundercook serves as Commissioner.

Some residents are concerned that this relationship was not declared.

The facts:

1. Forum Research has a long standing commercial relationship of at least ten years with the TTC. They conducted targeted research projects in 2001 and 2002. Item: TTC Budget - $198,320 (http://www3.ttc.ca/Search/results.jsp

2. Described in 2005 as the Commission’s Marketing and Public Affairs Department’s contractor for Targeted Research Studies.http://www.ttc.ca/postings/gso-comrpt/documents/report/f2418/_conv.htm

3. Forum Research continued in 2008 to be associated with the TTC as the Commission’s Marketing and Public Affairs Department’s contractor. This is confirmed by this blog account posted February 10th, 2008.http://www.nakedknitgirl.ca/?p=3677#comment

4. Forum Research continues to be associated with the TTC as indicated in the Forum Research Web site posting April 19, 2010. (Under Public Sector)

">htpp://www.forumresearch.com

">http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5297362/Baby%20Point%20Mtg.exe

5. Councillor William Saundercook has been a TTC Commissioner since 2005, and presently is in the running to be the next Chairman.
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/ttc/article/764353---the-ttc-is-a-real-mess

Summary:

It is a matter of public record that the market research firm "Forum Research" has a decade long relationship with the Toronto Transit Commission acting in their words; "as the Commission’s Marketing and Public Affairs Department’s contractor for Targeted Research Studies."

>http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5297362/Baby%20Point%20Mtg.exe

Panorama View of Baby Point Rd #70 to #60

click to enlarge image

This is a panoramic view of 60 Baby Point Rd through 70 Baby Point Road taken as a consecutive sequence of 15 pictures which have been converted into one panoramic image using proprietary software from UBC - "Autostitch"

The Architectural sketch of the planned 66 baby Point Road was inserted using the actual frontal dimensions of 64 Baby Pt and 68 Baby Point (53.25 ft and 53.5 ft respectively)as control dimensions. The planned frontal dimesion of 66 Baby Point Rd. is 60 ft.

Another MegaMansion in Ward 13 High Park-Parkdale

click to enlarge - Photo Panorama by Autostitch

This is another new non conforming "Megahome" being parachuted into a Ward 13 Community in the vicinity of Grenadier Pond on Dacre Crescent. Lotline to Lotline again !

Can this happen again in Baby Point ?.... I would not bet against it !

Letter to Councillor Saundercook & L. Bozinoff - 15/4/2010

For before and after composite Montage see previous blog

April 15, 2010

Circulation: To the Residents of the Greater Baby Point Circle Area

Dear Councillor Saundercook and Mr. Lorne Bozinoff;

In reference to : EY35.4 Site Plan Application – Final Report and Site Plan Approval
(to permit the construction of a new detached dwelling for the lands at 66 Baby Point Road)

I have received the letter of April 7, 2010 from the City of Toronto in reference to 66 Baby Point Road

Let me say at the outset that more than 100 residents of the greater Baby Point Circle community, many who met with you and your client Mr. Bozinoff on the evening of March 25th, 2010 at the Baby Point Club, remain seriously distressed by the sequence of events that led to final approval of this project. This culminated in the defeat of the motion to defer this matter at City of Toronto Council on March 31st.

None of the concerns brought to your desk, or to the attention of Mr. Lorne Bozinoff, have been addressed in a significant or constructive manner. In fact, stated bluntly, the legitimate concerns of a majority of this established and historic residential community have been trivialized and marginalized.

That being said, I wish to recapitulate the three undertakings made by yourself at that meeting.

 To provide an overview of the Property Tax implications of this development

 To move for deferral of the upcoming motion to approve EY35.4 Site Plan Application.

 To provide the community at the earliest opportunity with an accurately scaled sketch of the frontal and east elevations of the proposed property.

The first item regarding Property Taxes has been addressed as previously confirmed.1

The inexplicable defeat of the motion in item #2 is a barrier to closure of this matter.

The final undertaking remains outstanding, although note has been taken of your remarks made to City Council March 31, 2010.

To quote; “’m convinced it is a true rendering of what the applicant intends to do”

As a consequence, a further analysis of the rendering of the impact on the streetscape of the frontal elevation of the proposed home for 66 Baby Point Road was undertaken.

Observations:
The sketch presented by Mr. Lorne Bozinoff to the community, and presented by yourself to Council,2 is not associated with any published metrics or any declaration that it is to scale.

When recompiled using the metrics of the adjacent homes including the horizontal dimensions of the buildings a more accurate estimation of the scale of the architectural drawing of the proposed home in proportion to the existing properties can be made. (eg #64 Baby Pt frontage 54 ft 3 in.)

 The horizontal dimension of the proposed home at 66 Baby Point Road is significantly under represented.
 The vertical dimension of the proposed home at 66 Baby Point Road is also significantly under represented.
 The magnitude of this under representation is in the range of 10-13 percent.

The effect of this misrepresentation is substantial as is illustrated below:

The east aperture between #64 Baby Point and #66 Baby Point is represented as being over eight feet (8 ft.) than will be the case when the property is built to the side set back parameters of 1.5 m on the west and 1.2 m on the east.

The roof height will be 4-1/2 feet higher than represented in the ”Bozinoff” sketch.

Recall that this proposed development is between 5,900 sq ft to 6,500 sq ft ., dependent on whether the attached garage is included. Suffice it to say that in either case the proposed home is more than twice (2x) the size of the average of the next ten adjacent homes in that immediate area. (2,724 sq. ft) (MPAC)

Regardless of whether or not these incorrect representations were deliberate or presented by mischance, the fact remains that this was a serious misrepresentation of the situation at hand.

Moreover, it is my considered opinion that there was no justification for any party presenting this material as an accurate representation of the visual impact that this mega home will have on the street scape of Baby Point Road in the vicinity of “The Circle”

To do so strains credulity.

In closing, Mr. Bozinoff and Mr. Saundercook , as per your committed action step to the Baby Point residents three weeks ago on March 25, the community asks once more to be provided on an expedited basis, accurate drawings and all relevant measurements of the 66 Baby Point Road plans.

Sincerely,
Dr. Robert Galway
66 Baby Point Road
On behalf of Concerned Baby Point Residents

Bozinoff Sketches in Error ?

By now most residents are aware that the City of Toronto has forwarded to EYC the enabling certification permitting the Chief Planner to issue a building permit to the Bozinoff's for the construction of their planned property on the lot at 66 Baby Point Road.

At the same time, I am aware from feedback in the Baby Point Community at large that many of us are concerned about several aspects of this application that remain an open issue. These concerns include process and the less than transparent reasons that the motion to defer this matter was defeated at City of Toronto Council meeting on March 31, 2010.

In addition, the material presented by both the Applicant and the Councillor to the community and to Council does not withstand close scrutiny. In this instance, I am referring to the sketch or rendering presented by Mr. Bozinoff apparently demonstrating minimal visual impact on the streetscape in the vicinity of 66 Baby Point Road.

This sketch was also displayed to both councils by Mr. Saundercook during his presentations to his fellow councillors. In fact, he opined that this was an accurate reflection of the impact of this home on the streetscape.

The two photographs demonstrate otherwise, The first is the original sketch which has no scale associated with it. The second is scaled to the actual dimensions of the adjacent properties. (#64 is 53 ft 4 in. wide) You can note the change in distance between that home and the target property on the two sketches. (viz annotated photo montage)

The above letter to the Councillor and the Applicant addresses these continuing concerns.

www.babypointatrisk.blogspot.com

Final Approval for 66 Baby Point Road McMansion Site Plan

Click image  to enlarge

http://realestate.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=13107733

http://www.newsweek.com/id/61935

http://www.forumresearch.com/experience.asp

http://www.nakedknitgirl.ca/ scroll up to top

http://www.ttc.ca/postings/gso-comrpt/documents/report/f2418/_conv.htm

http://http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/ttc/article/764353---the-ttc-is-a-real-mess

www3.ttc.ca/search/results.jsp
Enter "Forum Research" in the search box!

Motion for Deferral was defeated last night March 31, 2010

The Motion for a Deferral on this matter was defeated Wednesday evening March 31, 2010

when presented by Ward 13 Councillor.

The EYC "Put it in his Pocket" Motion of March 9th, 2010

now enables Mr. Lorne Bozinoff to proceed

to Demolish 66 Baby Point Road

and proceed with the construction of a 6,500 sq, foot home on the site.

when the average area of adjacent homes is 2724 Sq. feet

This is a rendering of what the streetscape view to the west may well look like.

Councillor Bill Saundercook's eMail March 30,2010 Re: 66 Baby Point Rd - Deferral

66 Baby Point Road Update - March 31, 2010 at 14:30 Hr.

Good afternoon:
         Many of you remain concerned about the large size, mass and density of the proposed house to be built on this site.


         Councillor Saundercook affirmed his intent to move for a deferral of this matter during the present meeting of Toronto City Council taking place to-day and to-morrow. The Councillor's letter is published below.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Baby Point Resident,

I am writing you due to your interest in the above noted property. Last Thursday March 25th, many of you attended a meeting at the Babypoint club. The goal of the meeting was to allow the surrounding community to outline some of their concerns with the proposed plans for the property. The tone of the meeting did not play out as I had hoped.

Many of you voiced your concerns about the possibility of increased property taxes, if the new home is built as planned. After meeting with a staff member from the finance department the next morning, I am able to confirm that this one individual house will not raise assessments across the board. Tax assessments are adjusted based on comparable homes in the area. According to City Finance staff "Residential property values are based on sales of comparable properties in similar neighborhoods. Your property value as ascribed by MPAC should reflect what a property comparable to yours would sell for, in an arm's length unencumbered sale."

The issue is before us at Council this week and will likely be dealt with on Thursday, at which time I will be moving deferral, subject to the applicant going back to the Committee of Adjustments. If the applicant is unsuccessful at the Committee of Adjustments, then I will be supporting the site plan.

Please do not hesitate to contact my office with any further concerns.
regards,
Councillor Bill Saundercook

Front & East Side Elevation of 66 Baby Point Rd. "McMansion"

Over 80 households on "The Circle" are opposed to the Plans for a 6,500 sq. ft home at 66 Baby Point Road as of March 28, 2010.

Click on Images to enlarge

To Read the latest Inside Toronto Article by Lisa Rainford click Link:

http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/local/article/656912--residents-continue-to-oppose-demolition-of-home

Or this article in the Globe & Mail on the weekend: "Beauty in the Beaches? Not always" at www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/toronto/beauty-in-the-beaches-not-always/article1513581/?service=email.

66 Baby Point Road to be Demolished Soon! - Toronto Council Mtg March 31st.

Councilor Bill Saundercook

Will he Defer

or

Won't He

? ? ?

To View latest Inside Toronto Article by Lisa Rainford click below:

Link:

http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/local/article/656912--residents-continue-to-oppose-demolition-of-home

66 Baby Point Road to be Demolished Soon! Toronto City Council Meets March 31st.

80 Households Vote No!
Councilor Saundercook - Will He Defer  or Not ? ?

at March 31, 2010 TCC Mtg.

To Read the latest Inside Toronto Article by Lisa Rainford click Link:

http://www.insidetoronto.com/news/local/article/656912--residents-continue-to-oppose-demolition-of-home

Community Meeting Re: 66 Baby Point Road Proposal - March 25, 2009

Baby Point Circle Residents Continue to Voice Concerns

This map illustrates the Baby Point Circle residents' opposition to the 66 Baby Point development. Over 70 homes in total in the entire Baby Point neighbourhood have expressed concern over the plan.

To Review Goodman LLP Opinion Re: Policy 3.4.8 -  Click Link Below:

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5297362/GOODMANS%20Letter%20to%20Saundercook.doc

This is a Word Document - click to Download & Open
Topic: Section 41(7)(a) of the Planning Act

Streetscape Elevation of Proposed 66 Baby Point Rd Development

This is the 6500 sq.ft. house that is replacing the old Arts & Crafts Cottage at 66 Baby Point Rd. west of my neighbour at 64 Baby Point Rd.

A real McMansion - driveway to driveway with double-door car garage with only a 1.2 metre setback from the adjacent property!  This is a development you might see in Mississauga or North York and not consistent with the density, mass and streetscape of Baby Point.

http://realestate.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=13107733

http://www.newsweek.com/id/61935

The Villager March 10th article - Demolition of 66 Baby Point Rd Approved by Etobicoke City Council

Lisa Rainford of The Villager wrote an article on March 10 reporting on the actions of City Council (including Bill Saundercook) approving the site plan submission for the demolition of 66 Baby Point Rd and erection of a 6500 sq.ft.  development on the site. 

To read the full article, go to the page entitled "The Villager March 10th article - Demolition of 66 Baby Point Rd Approved by Etobicoke City Council" 

in the Page section.

Petition to Bill Saundercook raising issues of concern re: 66 Baby Point site plan

In early March a petition was forwarded to Councillor Saundercook (Ward 13) and Etobicoke City Council outlining concerns of area residents re: Site Plan Approval - 66 Baby Point Rd.

In summary the major issues of concern are:

 Incongruence with Streetscape: We are concerned that the proposed building is not consistent with the existing streetscape and characteristics of the area that we all value. The 7000 sq. foot house is 3 times the average of the houses near it. It overwhelms other the adjacent more modest homes which comprise the prevailing building type in our neighbourhood.

 Ravine Violation: Further, the site is constrained by the ravine to the rear and a number of prominent and significant trees. Due to its overwhelming size, the rear yard landscaping of Spa, Pool, Cabana and extensive cement work contravenes the 10 meter City of Toronto ravine by-law. The rear yard could be landscaped without the contravening the by law if the applicant chose to build a more modest house, in keeping with the other homes in the neighbourhood.

 Lack of Consultation: Moreover, we believe the applicant (who does not live in this Ward and is presently renting the property) has done a poor job of consulting with area residents. For over a year, he has resubmitted the same 6500 sq ft plan with no alterations nor any community input.

 Need for Action by Bill Saundercook: Councillor Bill Saundercook needs to vote against this proposal on March 9, 2010 as the applicant was asked by Bill to engage the community, and has not done so for over a year.

In summary, that there is no effort to design a house that fits with the neighbourhood history, character and streetscape. The demolition and erection of an overly large structure will change the character of the historic circle. We strongly oppose the proposed development and ask that the Committee refuse the application.

Name:

Address: Signature_______________________

SEND TO

Councillor Bill Saundercook Phone 416 392–4072, Fax 416 696-3677, email:

councillor_saundercook@toronto.ca

Notice of meeting Re: 66 Baby Point Rd.

Notice to Residents of Baby Point Area

March 17, 2010

Councillor Bill Saundercook has announced a special community meeting in respect to the recently approved application for

Site Plan Approval - 66 Baby Point Road

for the Demolition & Building of a new home of approximately 6500 sq. ft. on the present lot.

This will be held at the Baby Point Club

March 25, 2010 at 6:00 pm  (this Thursday)

The Eastern Elevations of the two houses

The above is the eastern elevation of McMansion

This is the eastern elevation of the present house

The disparity in size is obvious! ...... 2x

For an Overview in slideshow format of the present situation
go to the following link:

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5297362/Baby%20Point%20Mtg.exe

click the centre picture to start the show when it has downloaded and posted the opening Title slide

Baby Point Meeting - Posted March 22, 2010

Notice to Residents of Baby Point Area

Councillor Bill Saundercook has announced
a special community meeting

in respect to the recently approved Site Plan for
the Demolition & Building of a new home

at 66 Baby Point Road

This will be held at the Baby Point Club
March 25, 2010 at 6:00 pm

(This Thursday)

** (The Club only holds 62 People – so come early) **

*****************************************************

For Further Information on the proposed Site Plan

For 66 Baby Point Road

http://www.rdgalway.blogspot.com//

Tree Cutting & Ravine Erosion

66 Baby Point Road - Demolition

In spite of the Applicant's statement to Council that the only trees to be cut on his property are two overgrown ornamental cedars at the front and a large poplar on the edge of the driveway.....
Several trees on the north ravine slope are clearly marked for removal. (these are only a small sample)
March 17, 2010