Toronto and East York Community Council - February 27, 2026

High-level summary

• The Toronto and East York Community Council, Special Meeting 30 focused on the demolition application for 660 and 664 Dundas Street East, including reopening item T29.67 due to an error and continuing discussion on item T30.1. The meeting emphasized heritage preservation, public input, and procedural integrity, with decisions to reopen the item and proceed with further deliberation.

Five most important topics discussed

1) Acknowledgment of Indigenous lands and Black History Month - The meeting opened with recognition of Indigenous territories and Black History Month, underscoring the city’s commitment to confronting anti-Black racism and honoring African, Caribbean, and Black communities. - Direct quote (Councillor Moyes): "As a Caribbean Canadian, I am committed to continue acting in solidarity with our African Caribbean and Black communities seeking freedom and rep justice."

2) Reopening of Item T29.67 (660 and 664 Dundas Street East, Residential Demolition Application) - The council reopened the item due to an error in the prior meeting, signaling that the demolition discussion would continue under item T30.1. - File Numbers: T29.67 and T30.1. - Direct quote: "I'm going to move that the item T29.67 be reopened. All those in favor? Oppose carried."

3) Concerns over fast-tracking demolition - Nikki Ward raised concerns that fast-tracking could lead to irreversible decisions, emphasizing the cultural significance of the properties, including the Imperial Pub. - Direct quote: "Fast-tracking demolition is something that cannot be undone... One of those buildings is mixed use. One of the mixed uses is the Imperial Pub."

4) Heritage preservation and risk of repeating past losses - Ward urged preservation of heritage buildings and recalled a prior demolition (38-40 Dundas Street) where a historically significant structure was lost, arguing against repeating such mistakes. - Direct quote: "It was a building of heritage importance and it cannot be restored nor can the interior be reconstructed. It's just gone forever."

5) Public consultation and community impact - The discussion highlighted the need for broader community input before demolition, stressing transparency and engagement for culturally and historically significant properties. - Direct quote: "It’s prudent I think to slow down... The Imperial Pub has a significant role to play in the history of LGBTQ2IS history in Toronto Center."

Opportunities for Public Input

• The meeting featured two scheduled speakers on the demolition application, indicating an opportunity for public input. Residents concerned about the demolition may have chances to voice opinions in future consultations or meetings.
• Note: No specific email addresses or public contact details were provided in the notes.

File Numbers Discussed

• T29.67 (reopened item)
• T30.1 (demolition application under review)

Motions and outcomes

1) Motion to Reopen Item T29.67 (660 and 664 Dundas Street East, Residential Demolition Application) - Outcome: Passed. - Next Steps: The council will review the demolition application under item T30.1.

2) Discussion on Item T30.1 (Demolition Application) - Outcome: Ongoing discussion; no final decision noted in this transcript section. - Next Steps: Further deliberation and potential stakeholder/community consultation.

Councillors present

• Councillor Chris Moyes (Chair)
• Councillor Gord Perks
• Deputy Mayor Malik
• Councillor Saxs
• Councillor Matlow