WELCOME TO THE TOWN AND GOWN ASSOCIATION OF ONTARIO
We are dedicated to improving the quality of life in those municipalities that host post-secondary institutions by promoting and supporting activities that ensure cohesive communities that are safe, healthy, and enjoyable. Our members are Universities and Colleges, their host cities and towns, as well as student, neighbourhood, police and business organizations within and beyond Ontario. For more information on becoming a member, please download a membership form here.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
2012 TGAO Symposium
Theme: Cities for People. Creative Town and Gown Communities
May 13 - 15 2012
Kingston, Ontario
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN HOSTING THE 2013 SYMPOSIUM?
Click HERE to download the Bid Guidelines
NOTE: Submissions are due February 15 2012.
Collection of post-conviction fines for Provincial Offences Act
The Board recently approved a policy paper aimed at assisting municipalities to collect unpaid fines, and we hope to make progress on this issue in the coming months. TGAO takes a holistic approach to addressing tenant safety, poor property standards, and nuisance behaviours, and this recommendation is just one piece of the larger puzzle. You can download the paper here.
CMHC offers financing assistance for student homes
January 26, 2010: CMHC recently announced a new financing scheme that will encourage the development of new housing for students. You can read the story here.
Supreme Court dismisses challenge to Oshawa zoning by-law regulating student housing
December 10, 2009: There have been many stories in the media of late, but here are two reports that detail the decision: newsdurhamregion.ca.
London proposes land-use changes as part of their new Near-Campus Neighbourhood Strategy
November 4, 2009: The City of London has begun moving forward with several land use planning strategies, which is part of their broader "Great Near Campus Neighbourhoods Strategy." A report in Western's student newspaper, The Gazette, highlights the issue. This report from city planning staff provides more background.
Economic impact of college and university towns
Summer, 2009: Our good friends at TownGown World have posted some interesting articles regarding the economic impact of universities and colleges, and the great opportunities these institutions present to their host municipalities. Check out the articles here.
*If you've seen an interesting news article that we've missed, please e-mail the TGAO office at info@tgao.ca to make a recommendation.