We, the undersigned residents and supporters of the Cabbagetown community, are submitting this petition out of genuine concern for the safety, well-being, and quality of life of those who live in and around the area.

Recently, a public bench was installed at the corner of Parliament Street and Aberdeen Street, directly beside the entrance of a residential building and within the heart of a family-oriented neighbourhood.

While public seating can be a valuable community amenity, the placement of this bench has resulted in significant and ongoing challenges for nearby residents. 

Since its installation, residents have witnessed a substantial increase in disruptive activity at this location, including public drug use, alcohol consumption, verbal altercations, sexual activity, public defecation, and loitering. These incidents occur on a daily basis during both daytime and nighttime hours, and drug Paraphernalia is often left on and around the bench. This is particularly concerning given the number of young children living on Aberdeen Street and the presence of a daycare centre directly across the street.

Aberdeen Street also serves as a corridor between the downtown core and the LCBO on Parliament Street, and the bench has become a frequent gathering point for individuals passing to and from that area.

A primary justification for the installation of this bench was to provide seating for elderly residents in the community. However, it has instead left many seniors and other residents feeling uncomfortable and unsafe.

There is also an open commercial space directly beside the bench, and the current conditions are a deterrent to potential businesses considering opening in the area, negatively affecting the vitality of the neighbourhood.

This petition is not intended to oppose public seating or public space initiatives. Rather, it seeks to address the persistent and well-documented issues occurring at this specific location and the impact they are having on the surrounding community.

We respectfully request that the City remove or relocate the bench to a more suitable location where it can continue to serve its intended purpose without compromising the safety, comfort, and quality of life of nearby residents.

By signing this petition, you are supporting a safer and more thoughtfully planned neighbourhood for residents, families, seniors, and children. 

Thank you for your support and for helping restore the sense of safety, peace, and community that Cabbagetown residents deserve.