Statement from Cabbagetown South Resident’s Association: in response to our Neighbourhood hiring private security guards

The Residents Association and the community of Cabbagetown South strongly believe in protecting our most vulnerable populations. We also believe that our children, elderly, and all residents deserve the same protection.

It is easy to paint us as insensitive or NIMBY, but that does not solve or recognize the deep-rooted issues and concerns that continue to grow in this small ward that hosts 40% of the cities under-funded social services.

The Cabbagetown South Resident’s Association has been in conversations with our community and neighbours on Berkeley, Ontario & Seaton between Dundas and Shuter since July regarding the issues and concerns that have escalated on their Streets throughout the summer.

We have helped facilitated several meetings with Councillor Wong Tam, Shelter Support & Housing, By Law Officers, Toronto Community Housing and 51 Division to hear our concerns and to understand what role the City can play to help deal with the escalating crime, drug dealers, overdoses and homelessness within our community.

The level of stress in this neighbourhood is unprecedented and unsustainable, and we support the measures our residents have taken to ensure their families are safe in their own homes. It is also a concept we are considering implementing and supporting on a larger scale if the City cannot get a head of this.

The City has an obligation to act now and recognize the harm being inflicted upon our neighbourhood and others like us.

Sincerely,
Cabbagetown South Board