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.
SARA is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the village of Swansea with new street signs. Thanks to a generous donor SARA was able to purchase approximately 39 street signs. If you would like to ADOPT a street sign on your own or with neighbours for your neighbourhood please CONTACT US using the link below. Street signs are expected to cost $250.00 including administrative costs and taxes. Make your street shine with a NEW Swansea sign!
See list of locations. We have been contacted by the organizers of one street that want to raise funds for their street to have a sign. We hope others will help as well. Street Signs List to ADOPT
CAPS FOR SALE
One of a kind SARA designed Village of Swansea centennial caps for sale. Blue and white caps are $30.00, camouflage caps are $25.00. Please CONTACT US if you are interested. All proceeds go to SARA.
Ward 4 will have a new city Councillor! Municipal elections will be held on October 26, 2026. SARA hopes to host an all candidates debate in September. Here is a link to candidates who are running.
About SARA
The SARA Executive is composed of dedicated volunteers who provide leadership and direction to the Association.
New Building Proposal
2273, 2277, 2279 Bloor Street West- 16 storeys, 60 unit rental building.
The application proposes to amend the Zoning By-law to permit a 16 storey mixed-use building with 60 residential dwelling units, 159 m2 of non-res GFA proposed as retail space on the ground floor and 74 bike parking spaces.
We would like to hear from you if you are concerned about this development, please contact us using the link below:
City Council Motions of Concern for SARA
A number of motions will be made by City Council prior to the October municipal election. A motion concerning SARA is proposed by Ward 24 Scarborough-Guildwood City Councillor and Night Economy Champion/Chair, Paul Ainslie, asks staff to study Montreal’s existing nightlight hub model, in which select venues are allowed to remain open until 6 a.m. during approved events, and determine whether a similar approach could make sense in Toront0.
The placement of OVERSIZED SHIPPING CONTAINERS YEAR ROUND by Parks and Recreation on Sir Gzowski Park Beaches as a result of a motion by Paula Fletcher, for the seasonal use by non motorized boat rental companies has limited community members and visitors access to the beach, water, view of the lake, shade and overall access to a public good. These containers can easily be relocated off the beach. Please contact the following to voice your concerns or contact us about signing a petition.
🏛️ 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 (2026)
City Planning has advanced a multi-tower redevelopment of Swansea Mews without meaningful community consultation.
LEARN MORE
SARA Action: Monitoring the project and advocating for proper consultation and compliance with 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.