For a decade, the garden Brian Gorrell created in front of his home at 133 Broadway Avenue was an oasis for his neighbours and all Midtown residents. The 2,400 square foot garden had flowers, hedges, a koi pond, and Gorrell’s unique tchotchkes. The space has played host to Brian’s wedding, barbeques, birthday parties, and served as a community focal point for the Toronto Community Housing residents of the Broadway building and the wider neighbourhood. After Gorrell put in countless hours and $20,000 of his own money, Toronto Community Housing officials decided to destroy the garden. They went beyond removing several items that were cited as a fire hazard, threw out every personal item and ripped up every tree and flower bed. This action was cruel and unnecessary treatment of a resident and amenity that brought so much joy to the neighbourhood. This Motion directs funding in the amount of $50,000 to the Toronto Community Housing Corporation to rebuild the community garden, in consultation with Mr. Gorrell and the residents of 133 Broadway Avenue. Urgent consideration of this Motion is being requested to ensure that Mr. Gorrell, Toronto Community Housing, and the community can begin the reconstruction of the garden.
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