A resident of Kensington Market expressed frustration over the persistent rat infestation on Ellen Avenue behind her property and called for the city to address the issue. However, the city stated it does not own the street, and its ownership remains unknown.
Cristina Enrietti, the homeowner of three adjacent houses, described the area as filthy, with needles, garbage, and rats, especially active at night. Ellen Avenue is categorized as an orphan property, neglected due to the absence of a known owner for over a century.
CBC Toronto investigation revealed that Ellen Avenue changed hands last in 1898, with the last known owner passing away in 1922. City Councillor Dianne Saxe acknowledged the problem and sympathized with the homeowners but cited limited city authority over private properties.
Local historian Adam Wynne highlighted the prevalence of orphaned properties in Kensington and estimated potentially thousands citywide. He proposed a city-wide survey to identify and potentially acquire these properties for proper maintenance and development.
Real estate lawyer Bob Aaron attributed the issue to historical land development practices, resulting in neglected properties that serve as essential access routes for surrounding homes. He emphasized the challenges of maintaining these properties and the lack of incentive for the city to assume responsibility.
Enrietti, acknowledging the city’s non-ownership of Ellen Avenue, called for action as a taxpayer to ensure neighborhood cleanliness. City officials, including Saxe, are exploring solutions for Ellen Avenue and orphaned laneways, considering the possibility of future property owners voluntarily adopting and maintaining these neglected areas.
Aaron expressed skepticism about the feasibility of creating a registry for orphaned properties, citing their minimal value and potential financial burden. Despite hopes for voluntary adoption by new property owners, he highlighted the challenges and negative value associated with orphaned laneways.