A flyer, hand-delivered on November 14, invited residents within 120 metres of the site to an “Open House” at Swansea Public School. Canada Post delivery timelines were described as insufficient, leading to the hand distribution.
Councillor Perks selected the date of November 20 to align with the project’s schedule requirements and mark a procedural milestone.
The location and format proved unsuitable: the City was unable to secure an appropriate venue and instead used the school lunchroom. On the day, this space was unavailable as arranged, so potential attendees were directed to a basement hallway and children’s play area. Accessibility barriers — specifically the absence of wheelchair access via a steep staircase — prevented participation by several members of the public who desired to attend. The elevator was not working.
Inside, the environment was hot, noisy, and crowded, making conversation and engagement difficult if not impossible for most, and particularly for those with hearing and visual impairments.
A spontaneous Q&A followed, led by the Councillor in a narrow corridor, with City, TCHC, Bousfields, and vendor representatives positioned opposite attendees. There was no microphone, exchanges were often inaudible and the physical environment inappropriate.
Attendees described the event as “demeaning”, “cynical” and “disrespectful.” No formal meeting notes were taken and shared. Although staff reaffirmed that questions would be answered through follow-up channels, no subsequent public consultation with thorough documentation has occurred.
