The City of Toronto Committee of Adjustment is one of those obscure appointed boards that actually has a big impact on the city. It decides whether property owners can make “minor” adjustments to the zoning of their properties, but “minor” can have a fairly significant impact. It might decide if a homeowner can build a deck in their back yard, or it might decide if a condo building can add a couple of stories. It might keep peace between neighbours while allowing sensible intensification; or it might allow developers to circumvent the city’s zoning regulations. It’s all up to the citizens on the committee.
And now, here’s your chance to shape these decisions, and through them shape the city. The City of Toronto is looking for new members for the Toronto and East York panel. The qualifications they are looking for include planning, architecture, community development, and citizen advocacy — I’m sure many of our readers fit one of these categories. Among the people they are “especially encouraging to apply” are young adults aged 18-30. Also, you get paid.
See the City of Toronto website for more information. There’s also a public information meeting Tuesday June 16, 5:30-7:00, at City Hall.
Photo by Sam Javanrouh
