Toronto Council Approves Controversial Zoning Reform for Retail

A contentious zoning reform proposal that could reshape Toronto’s neighbourhoods passed with a significant majority on March 7, 2024, despite fierce opposition from several city councillors. The proposal, which enables the establishment of small businesses in residential areas along major streets and near parks and schools, garnered a vote of 23-2. Only Councillors Stephen Holyday and Neethan Shan opposed the measure, while James Pasternak was absent.

The debate highlighted the divide between urban and suburban perspectives within the city. Councillor Parthi Kandavel of Scarborough Southwest criticized his colleagues for what he termed “rage baiting.” He expressed concerns about the potential for retail, including bars and cannabis shops, to infiltrate residential neighbourhoods. “The insinuation that we’re against kids getting ice cream… is troubling,” Kandavel stated during the discussion.

Mayor Olivia Chow and her supporters emphasized the need for revitalizing local commerce. Chow recalled the nostalgic image of corner stores where children could purchase ice cream with loose change. She argued that the city has seen a decline in convenience stores from approximately 2,100 in 1989 to about two-thirds of that today, making it increasingly difficult to establish new local shops. “What we are doing right now is really cutting red tape,” she said.

Kandavel countered by raising concerns about the lack of attention to the downsides of the proposal. He pointed out the risk of “bad faith actors” using the reform as a means to displace residents from their homes. Furthermore, he challenged the notion that a car-centric approach to accessing jobs was a privilege exclusive to urban residents, arguing that many suburban families rely on driving to reach their workplaces.

The debate became heated when Councillor Gord Perks, a staunch supporter of the proposal, made comments that prompted a reaction from Kandavel. The exchange escalated, leading Speaker Frances Nunziata to call for an early break in the session.

Under the approved zoning changes, small businesses will be permitted in residential areas designated as “major streets,” at corner lots on “community streets,” and adjacent to parks or schools. While the proposal passed, concerns lingered among suburban councillors about insufficient community consultation. Councillor Lily Cheng described the changes as “somewhat controversial,” while Michael Thompson suggested that more input from residents was needed before moving forward.

Despite the overall support, challenges remain. The council’s decision does not address issues related to liquor and cannabis licensing, which are managed by the provincial government. Council members expressed the need for ongoing discussions with provincial authorities to align local regulations with the new zoning framework.

A survey conducted by the Coalition of Toronto Residents’ Associations indicated considerable opposition to the proposal among voters. While some councillors criticized the survey for purported misinformation, others defended it as a transparent reflection of community sentiment.

As the city moves forward with these zoning reforms, the implications for local residents and businesses will require vigilant monitoring to ensure that the balance between development and community needs is maintained. The outcome of this vote marks a significant step in Toronto’s ongoing efforts to adapt its urban landscape, but the debate surrounding its implementation is far from over.