The International Group, Inc…

The International Group, Inc. (IGI) is an employer in Scarborough and we are submitting this note to raise our concerns around Bill 23 as it is currently tabled. At our site at Midland & Sheppard Avenues, we have proudly operated a manufacturing facility and our global head office since 1945. Our Company is integrated into the community through jobs, investment and programs. Every year we make sizeable contributions through donations to local organizations including the Scarborough Health Network, Daily Bread Food Bank and Agincourt Community Services (to name a few).
Bill 23, as it is currently presented removes third party appeal rights for industrial operators. In the past, we have used this process to work with developers to mitigate adverse impacts on our manufacturing operations. While we remain supportive of the construction of new homes in the City of Toronto, our ability as an industrial operator, to participate in the appeal of land use within our geographic influence area is key to our ongoing viability in Scarborough. The current process, including the ability to appeal sensitive land use within the 300m influence area protects industry and jobs. Removal of this appeal process would be a grave concern.