Modcity, a developer in the Toronto area specializing in multiplexes, is under its tenth municipal investigation for allegedly cutting down trees illegally, according to a city councillor. Residents in the vicinity of 48 Ennerdale Road, near Dufferin Street and Rogers Road, expressed distress after witnessing the removal of trees on August 22.
Courtney Milner, a neighbor residing five houses away, described the situation as suspicious, noting the sudden appearance of tall blackout fencing the night before the tree removal. Milner observed various mature trees, including maples, cedars, pear trees, and hibiscus, being taken down with multiple dumpsters utilized for the process.
In response to the allegations, Markham-based Modcity’s principal involved in planning and acquisitions denied any connection to the Ennerdale property. The property, which was sold for $730,000 in July with a closing date scheduled for October, had Ron Sheinin, a Modcity principal, representing the buyer based on property records reviewed by CBC News.
Despite facing multiple investigations for similar tree-cutting allegations in various neighborhoods, including Leaside, Rosedale-Moore Park, and Dufferin-Eglinton, no charges or fines have been imposed on Modcity. This has led to residents questioning the accountability of developers and the enforcement of existing laws.
Milner and other neighbors raised concerns based on a previous incident at 46 Ennerdale Road involving a Modcity multiplex construction project. Modcity, in its statement, clarified its real estate involvement in the Ennerdale property but distanced itself from any direct association beyond brokerage services.
During the tree removal at 48 Ennerdale, confrontations ensued between residents and workers, with reports of workers throwing pears at the residents. Videos provided to CBC Toronto captured the tree-cutting activity and the lack of engagement with residents.
Residents, like Matt James, voiced disappointment over the loss of trees and perceived lack of regard for potential fines by the responsible company. City officials, including Coun. Alejandra Bravo, emphasized their efforts in investigating Modcity’s actions and highlighted the limitations in denying building permits to developers over tree bylaw violations under the Ontario Building Code Act.
Bravo called for regulatory changes to address loopholes allowing developers to operate unchecked and urged the Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement to intervene. The community and officials are seeking accountability and stricter enforcement measures to prevent further unauthorized tree removal incidents.