Just signed up to this forum specifically to add to the discussion in this thread. Others should be aware of 155 Balliol's less than stellar history and even more so Amelin Property Management's noticeably poor track record.
I live at 155 Balliol and can attest to member jTS's comments. It is with great concern looking to the future and the possibility of Amelin building a new high rise when historically they've been far from compliant with bylaws and maintaining properties they already own. Hopefully their poor record will be taken strongly into account.
The following is found online in regard to Amelin.
24-Storey Rental Tower Proposed on Balliol Street
"The existing high-rise and townhouses are run down and have been in dire need of a face-lift for many years"
"Those who have interacted with Amelin when issues arise report less than satisfactory response and results. It is not uncommon to hear stories of dissatisfaction and/or combative & defensive management."
Rent It Or Not
"As mentioned in the 2 other reviews here maintenance in general is poor and work is rarely completed quickly. It can also be hard to get management to act upon problems. The building owner does not interact or treat residents with respect"
"General Management can be difficult to deal with. Issues requiring attention are often an uphill battle. Concerns are not generally addressed in a professional manner. Issues are often not addressed and/or rectified."
"Hence, the maintenance is really poor. Zero marks for it."
Yelp - Balliol Towers Apts
"[...] are poorly managed and it takes forever to get anything done around there. He said if he wasn't under a lease right now, he would move."
"Owners of 155 Balliol St. are a nightmare. Most common 'elevator chats' between tenants consist of displeasure about ongoing problems due to management's disregard for items requiring attention, management decisions, and management's treatment and attitude towards residents."
Governor’s Green apartment complex bans newspaper from its premises
"Chief fire prevention officer Jim Winn said a second inspection of Amelin townhouses at 131 to 181 Governor’s Rd. found deficient fireplaces, chimneys and pipes in all units."
"The Dundas Star News has published two stories about investigations involving Governor’s Green in the past two years, both based on information provided by Hamilton Police and Landlord Tenant Board staff who confirmed ongoing investigations or review of complaints."
"Hamilton police senior support officer Ian Fotheringham began investigating complaints of seniors abuse at Governor’s Green in October. At the time, Fotheringham said the matter would involve a “long term investigation” and required follow-up interviews with several tenants."
Police monitoring Governor’s Green
"Investigators from the province of Ontario are reviewing harassment complaints from tenants of a Dundas apartment building, after Hamilton police responded to a flare-up in the building’s laundry room following several weeks of calm."
"Dave Grech, the ministry’s coordinator of investigations and an acting regional manager at the Landlord and Tenant Board, said Monday he is reviewing a file of complaints received from Governor’s Green tenants."
City of Toronto Investigation Activity
As suggested in one of the online reviews, looking up 155 Balliol results in an endless stream of investigation requests and violations.
City of Toronto Building Permit Status
Ongoing permits incomplete / outstanding.
Having lived at 155 Balliol for quite some time I can attest Amelin have historically been noticeably neglectful about property maintenance, bylaws, cleanliness, safety, and virtually all property management related items. I cringe anytime something comes up that will require their involvement. As opposed to just solving whatever needs fixing it is always a fight and takes them forever. It's almost as if they prefer to argue, blame others, delay, or make excuses as opposed to just satisfying the situation. On countless occasions they have also lied about what they are doing to getting things fixed when asked.
To be honest rent control and the location are the only reasons I put up with the negatives. Unfortunate but true.
I hope they aren't permitted to build another high rise. The street is already over populated, the infrastructure in the area is already maxed out, and there is no way I could fathom Amelin being a responsible and respectful property manager if history is any indication.
And lastly as others have said: the proposed building is ugly and does not compliment the surrounding area at all. Yuck.