RTB hearing

The RTB's hearing for Blair House Rehabilitation project took place over a period of three hours.

A reminder, Shindico does not have the right to make us leave prior to our leases being up.
If you or any other tenant feel that Shindico treated you in a way that was unjust, unethical -- or that they misrepresented the truth by sending the letters they did which made it sound like we were obliged to leave -- the RTB wants to know about it.

Contact:

1. Janet Halldorson -- RTB Rehabilitation Officer: 945.1962

2. Darren Cooper -- RTB Manager Client Services -- 945.4435


During the hearing Janet Halldorson did make a point of stating she takes the treatment of tenants during these kinds of projects very seriously, and she wants to hear from tenants regarding their experiences with Shindico on this. Janet said this is relevant even if you have already moved out, or plan to do so.

Another interesting point that came up during the hearing:
The RTB may take as long as two months to reach a decision on this.
In the meantime, it is possible that Shindico may initiate work to the building, but they have absolutely no right (nor did they ever) to force anyone out of their home.
Shindico's proposed *Rehabilitation* of the building is valued at approximately $2.7 million. That's about $67,000 per unit in "upgrades."

Another interesting point came up when one of the tenants attending the hearing revealed she's been in exactly the situation these sorts of *schemes* create. She has had to endure 3 evictions in the past 4 years, because landlords chose to *rehabilitate* her out of her home.

One of the tenants wrote a very strong letter that Janet read during the hearing. The points covered and questions raised were significant, and Janet stated that all these were duly noted and that she will be going over the letter with someone else to make sure the points raised were addressed properly.