Global's Take on Student Housing in Our Area

Global Toronto chose to come to The Annex to interview people in the wake of the unseemly riots in London, Ontario on St. Patrick's Day.

Why? Because of our area's student population and frat houses. In the end, the Global piece is quite balanced, presenting a lot of different viewpoints.

I don't live near a frat so frat parties don't bother me as much as, say, the neighbour who has drumming circle parties with drumming beginning at midnight. Seriously.

But, even then, I've never called the police about it. I don't think you can expect 24-hour peace and quiet when you live downtown in a large city. One of the downsides, but the upsides are numerous, too.

Cheers,

Vanessa

Frat Houses Update

After a lot of back and forthing, public meetings and media coverage, it looks as though frat houses in our area have reined themselves in and the issue is dying down.
It's nice to see a civilized resolution to a thorny issue.

Cheers,
Vanessa

Attention Frat House Neighours: Your Input Is Needed

Unless you've been out of the country, you probably know that frat houses in our area are under fire for being well, let's say, less than stellar neighbours.
It's time for frat house neighbours to voice their concerns at city hall. Here's the scoop from Councillor Vaughan's office:
"Dear Residents,
I have heard from many of you about issues you've experienced as neighbours of Fraternity and Sorority Houses.
Next week, City staff are conducting consultations intended for neighbours of Fraternity and Sorority houses. These consultations will help inform a licensing proposal for these housing types which City staff are developing as a result of a motion I moved at Licensing and Standards Committee last month.
Some of you may have already received this notice electronically or by mail.
Public Consultation Meeting for neighbours of Fraternity or Sorority Houses
Date: Tuesday, May 3rd
Time: 6pm to 9pm
Location: Metro Hall, 55 John Street
Direction markers will be provided to the meeting room.
Should you be unable to attend, but wish to provide comment, you may email Warwick Perrin, Municipal Licensing and Standards Policy & Research Consultant at wperrin@toronto.ca.
Your personal accounts and suggestions are important and I encourage you to share your comments with City staff either at this meeting or electronically.
Sincerely,
Adam Vaughan
Councillor Adam Vaughan
Ward 20, Trinity-Spadina
416-392-4044"
Cheers,
Vanessa

Time To Regulate Frat Houses?

Here are three media takes on the frat-houses-vs.-the-neighbours "battle" that's going on right now in The Annex.

They are from The Globe, The National Post and Global Toronto.

Interesting dilemma. No matter what your take on the issue, I like that our councillor is willing to put forth possible solutions to some sticky situations, including this one and also the issue of sharing parks in an equitable way.

Happy reading,
Vanessa