Birch Cliff Co-op
Thirty-three years ago today the official opening was held for the Birch Cliff Co-op, an affordable alternative to home ownership that provides residents with a strong sense of community and control over their living environment.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 11, 1983 was attended by some well-known Scarborough politicians from years gone by, including former Scarborough Mayor Gus Harris and former MPP Richard Johnston.
The co-op was built on the site of a well-known Scarborough landmark, Collectors’ Corners, an antique store owned by Harcourt Syms, which burned down in the 1970s.
Prior to that the property was the location of Scarborough’s first Canadian Tire store.
Photo courtesy of the Bluffs Monitor.
Democracy in action
Located at 1691 Kingston Rd., west of Birchcliff Ave., the Birch Cliff Co-op consists of 24 townhouse and apartment units ranging from four bedrooms to one bedroom.
A four-bedroom townhouse currently rents for $1,312 and the rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $898.
Needless to say, there’s a waiting list.
The Co-op is a non-profit organization that is democratically run, with each member having one vote.
The co-op members set their own by-laws and policies and elect leaders who report to the membership.
The members collectively own and operate the buildings and then lease back the units to themselves at an affordable price.
Birch Cliff Co-op
“Home sweet home”
Heather Edwards, who has lived in the co-op for nine years and is on the Board of Directors, describes it as “home sweet home”.
“It’s a safe, affordable, quiet place to live,” Edwards says. “We all watch out for each other. If someone goes away, if they are sick, need help, we are there.”
During the 2013 ice storm Edwards says members of the co-op banded together to make sure everyone was OK.
The residents share a community garden and also have “clean-up days” that end with a pizza party and drinks.
“We all work together to create a beautiful area where we call home,” Edwards said.
To get a sense of the community spirit at Birch Cliff C0-op, check out this video of their 2015 Canada Day party. They are not only celebrating Canada’s birthday but also planting trees in honour of co-op members who have passed away.
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This is article is part of a community “Today in History” series commemorating the upcoming 100th anniversary celebration of Birch Cliff Public School, which is taking place on Sept. 23/24, 2016. To see other articles click here: 1927, 1929, 1935, 1935, 1951, 1993, 1796, 1991.