The Swansea Area Ratepayers Association (SARA) relies on the generosity of its members through donations, supporting memberships, and an annual fundraiser, with no other source of funding.
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SARA
About SARA
The SARA Executive is composed of dedicated volunteers who provide leadership and direction to the Association.
Development Appeal Fund 2461 Bloor St W
Hey there! We’re rallying together to save Bloor West Village from a major development at 2461 Bloor (east of the ESSO station) that could drastically change our beloved neighborhood and threaten local jobs. Every donation, no matter how small, will help us secure professional representation at the Ontario Land Tribunal and keep our village vibrant and friendly—please consider clicking the link below to contribute or share it with others who care. Thank you for your support!
🏛️ Committee of Adjustments
Swansea is a highly desirable neighbourhood, attracting developers eager to maximize profits. Many development applications presented to the Committee of Adjustments (COA) seek to push zoning bylaws beyond reasonable limits—often aiming for oversized homes or dense apartments on small lots.
This puts constant pressure on our community’s character and livability due to increased building heights and floor space.
🌿 SARA Commitment: SARA is deeply committed to protecting Swansea’s unique identity and quality of life. We actively monitor every minor variance application that comes before the COA. When appeals take place, we also advocate at the Toronto Local Appeal Body (TLAB) and the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (LPAT).
💡 Our Role: We advocate strongly and responsibly on behalf of Swansea residents, ensuring development is appropriate, respectful of community values, and enhances—rather than undermines—our neighbourhood.
🏘️ Community Projects
🏠 Housing and Development
Expanding Housing Options in Neighbourhoods (EHON)
Monitoring provincial proposals for laneway houses, garden suites, and multiplexes.
SARA Action: We monitor developments, engage with policymakers, and advocate for community interests to ensure responsible and balanced growth.
🏢 Major Streets Intensification
Townhouses and small apartments along major streets can create more housing and foster walkable communities.
SARA Action: We analyze policy impacts, inform neighbours, and advocate for sustainable, community-focused intensification.
📑 Site Plan Approval Speed-up
Streamlining development approvals to reduce delays and costs.
SARA Action: We track approvals, support transparency, and ensure developments meet community standards.
📝 Pre-Application Consultations (PAC)
Developers meet with City staff before formal submission.
SARA Action: We participate in or review PAC processes, provide input on behalf of neighbours, and raise community concerns early.
🏗️ Swansea Mews Update (September 2025)
The planning department approved three towers with mixed-income rents without community consultation.
SARA Action: We monitor city approvals, inform residents of impacts, and advocate for proper consultation and adherence to the Swansea Secondary Plan.
🏙️ City Planning and Policy
📘 Official Plan for Toronto (Our Plan Toronto)
Guides city growth for the next 30 years, covering land use, housing, employment, parks, and services.
SARA Action: We review and provide feedback on planning initiatives, educate neighbours, and ensure policies consider local community interests.
⚖️ Zoning By-law Simplification & Modernization
Updates to reduce confusion, align regulations, and modernize land-use rules.
SARA Action: We monitor zoning changes, engage with city staff, and advocate for clarity and fairness in local regulations.
🌳 Official Plan Amendment 528 (OPA 528)
Allows limited exceptions to selling or repurposing City-owned parks and green spaces.
SARA Action: We track proposed amendments, inform neighbours of potential impacts, and advocate to protect public green spaces.
🪧 Swansea Heritage Signs
🪧 Swansea Heritage Signs
Plaques highlighting the historical and cultural significance of Swansea locations.
SARA Action: We promote heritage awareness, support preservation initiatives, and engage the community in celebrating local history.
🎉 Swansea Town Hall Centennial
Celebrating 100 years with community partnerships and fundraising.
SARA Action: We coordinate community events, support fundraising, and encourage neighbour participation to celebrate local heritage.
🚦 Streets and Public Consultations
🚸 Avenue Study City Consultation
Focus on safety, mobility, and streetscape improvements along Avenue Road.
SARA Action: We attend consultations, collect community feedback, and advocate for safe, accessible, and neighbour-friendly street improvements.
🛍️ Bloor Street West Avenue Study
Guides development while maintaining the Bloor West Village character.
SARA Action: We monitor study progress, represent local interests, and advocate for balanced growth while preserving community character.