Petition sponsor: The Richmond Hill Naturalists
Despite this petition and others, along with protests and a letter-writing campaign, the University of Toronto was permitted to complete the sale of the historic Dunlap Observatory and Park to Metrus Developments for $70 million. Thanks to everyone who took the time to sign this petition and for leaving some 200 pages worth of comments! The Richmond Hill Naturalists are committed to protect as much of the property as possible by arguing for a comprehensive heritage designation at an upcoming Ontario Conservation Board hearing.
Although the sale has occurred, if you support the preservation of public green space and the scientific and cultural heritage of the David Dunlap Observatory and Park, please support the Richmond Hill Naturalists efforts to preserve the DDO and leave your comments (including memories of the DDO).
The petition
Please sign this petition today and support the continued operation of the Observatory and the preservation of this 190-acre green space.
TO The President and Governing Council of the University of Toronto:
WHEREAS the University of Toronto is selling the David Dunlap Observatory, located in Richmond Hill, Ontario. The Observatory has deep historical, cultural and environmental significance to the residents of Richmond Hill, DDO astronomers, the Royal Astronomical Society and tens of thousands of visitors.
WHEREAS the Observatory land has been regenerating for over 70 years and its forests and meadows are now home to deer, fox, coyote and dozens of bird species.
WHEREAS the first Black Hole was discovered by Professor Tom Bolton using the 74-inch telescope. The facility is still in demand by numerous astronomers from Canada and Europe. In 2006, DDO astronomers contributed 19 peer-reviewed articles.
WHEREAS the DDO land is the largest remaining green space in the Town of Richmond Hill, a community which has grown from 90,000 to 163,000 people in just 10 years. We need this Park!
WHEREAS the University of Toronto did not consult with area residents before putting the land up for sale. In January 2007, DDO Director, Peter Martin told the Toronto Star "There have been no official talks about selling." A mere 9 months later, the DDO is on the auction block -- UofT will accept bids from developers until February 15, 2008.
WE THE UNDERSIGNED petition the University of Toronto to CANCEL THE SALE of the DDO; OR, for the Town of Richmond Hill to protect the entire property through a Heritage Landscape Designation; OR, for the lands to be purchased and protected by a public partnership using local, Provincial and Federal money.
Sign the petition
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