RHRA Executive members meet condo developer

Some members of the Regal Heights Residents’ Association executive met with the developer behind one of the area’s newest proposed condo developments.

The meeting on Monday, March 11 was a chance to learn more about the development at 861 St. Clair Ave. W., the site of the former muffler shop and plaza on the corner of Winona Drive.

Mitch Abrahams is the President of The Benvenuto Group/ Malen Capital Corp., the companies behind the project. Mr. Abrahams took the group through an outline of the project and discussed the planning issues involved.

The City of Toronto found 19 ways in which the proposed condo did not adhere to the zoning bylaw — an unusually large number. Mr. Abrahams says many of those variances involved the City’s interpretation of the setback at the rear of the building. A laneway which can never be developed runs between the rear of the site and the closest house on Winona. The developer is counting that laneway as part of the setback of the building. Mr. Abrahams says his company will make that case when it responds to the City’s findings. Several other variances have to do with a proposed amenities room that would cover part of the roof.

The RHRA generally does not take an official position on proposed developments in the neighbourhood. However, we do monitor proposed developments and act as an information conduit so that residents can stay informed.