It's supposed to tackle social problems like drugs, violence and prostitution, but a community safety plan for London's Old East Village (OEV) is instead being criticized as a community wish list.
The harsh assessment comes from the city councillor who represents the area, Ward 4's Stephen Orser.
"To deal with the needle issue, to deal with the unwanted behaviour of some people that have health issues there, to deal with the aggression on the street, deal with the panhandling, all these things. That's what the safety Task Force was supposed to deal with. Not community gardens in Queen's Park," says Orser.
Councillors are being asked to endorse a community safety plan for the OEV.
It calls for initiatives like increased lighting and dedicated foot patrols.
It also calls for a bylaw that new housing be at least 15% rent geared-to-income.
" They want community gardens, Lorne Ave School, all these things that are more of a community wishlist than a safety plan in my view," adds Orser.
The report also advises against surveillance cameras.
The plan highlights a lot of really simple steps like keeping needles and garbage off the Dundas Street corridor and taking steps to beautify the neighbourhood.
The plan will be considered by the Community and Protective Services Committee Monday.
