The Mission of the 400 Walmer Road Tenants’ Association: “To act in the interest of residents in achieving a healthy and enjoyable living environment.”
Board
This is the Board of Directors for the 2023/2024 term
President: Barbara Back
Vice-President: Joanne Seon
Secretary: Joanne Seon
Interim Treasurer: Helen Morris
Members At Large:
Rachel Gottesman
Chris Harrison
Judith Lewis
Marilyn Newman
Shelley Ortved
Barbara Weisfeld
In pursuit of our Mission, the 400WRTA takes on certain activities.
AGI vigilance
Because of our building’s age, increases in rent are subject to annual provincial guidelines determined largely by the rate of inflation. Other apartment buildings are allowed to charge what the market will bear. At 400 Walmer, aside from provincial guidelines, management is allowed to request an Above Guideline Increase (AGI), subject to approval by the provincial Landlord and Tenant Board. These AGIs should be based on capital expenses to the buildings.
When management submits an AGI, the 400WRTA examines the paperwork and challenges items which do not appear to properly fit the requirements. Our organization has a track record of successfully challenging AGI submissions, though it does take a significant effort to review, support and frame the discussion.
GWLRA meetings
We have a long-standing history of working positively and cooperatively with 400 Walmer Management. As much as possible, we anticipate issues and attempt to resolve them amicably. GWLRA management has also agreed to meet with representatives of the 400WRTA on a regular basis to articulate issues of health, safety, and enjoyment and to discuss solutions. Currently, these meetings are scheduled about every six weeks. Not all of our requests are met but many are.
Communications
We report to our membership through regular issues of our newsletter and “First to Know” messages, both delivered via email. We post in common areas. We hold an Annual General Meeting featuring reports from our President and Treasurer. And we monitor and respond to emails sent to our dedicated Inbox, as well as notes left in mailboxes mounted in the building lobbies.
Programs
From time to time, the 400WRTA mounts presentations and activities of general interest to the membership. These are publicized and open to all members in good standing.
Monitoring of upkeep
The 400WRTA regularly inspects all common areas of the property, then documents and reports those areas that need management attention. While upkeep of the interiors of apartments are considered the responsibility of the tenant and landlord, common areas are of special interest to the 400WRTA. Last year we put in 23 work orders for building improvements: 7 electrical, 7 structural, 4 safety, 3 grounds, 2 plantings, 1 equipment. If you see something that needs attention please let us know.
Social activities
We have a history of hosting social gatherings twice a year – during summer and during the year-end holiday season.
Library
We have assumed responsibility for organizing and administering a well-stocked library on the 2nd Floor of the West Tower adjacent to the Laundry Room. There is no charge for borrowing library books and donations are welcome. Those books not in demand at the library are contributed to charitable book sales.
Newsletter Archive
While this Archive is not a complete storehouse of past issues, it does contain several years’ worth of communications.
Friends of the Tenants’ Association
The 400WRTA is not alone in its efforts to improve life in the buildings.
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Oasis 400
This resident-led program supports tenants over 65 and/or living with a disability to age in place and socialize by offering activities. Membership is free and all other tenants, family members and interested persons are welcome to join as Friends of Oasis 400. Contact oasisnews.400@gmail.com to participate/and/or volunteer.
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Facebook Page
Initiated by a socially minded tenant, the 400 Walmer Road Community group on Facebook is a forum for interaction among tenants. Those wishing to participate must ask the group administrator for inclusion.
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Charitable Drives
There are bins in the ground floor recycling rooms for wine, spirits and beer bottles and cans. These are collected and the proceeds are donated to the local Out of the Cold program. In addition, drives by individual tenants do take place from time to time.
Join the Tenants’ Association
We accept applications from tenants at any time throughout the year. Annual dues are $20 and cover the period from January 1 to December 31. Membership is by apartment, not individuals. Members in good standing receive regular newsletters and emailings, the right to vote at General Meetings, and invitations to participate in programs and social events.
Click the button below to download a Membership Form. Note that on the form, your signature is required if you wish the 400WRTA to speak on your behalf regarding any matters before the Landlord and Tenant Board.
Apply to join the Board
We welcome involvement by our members, whether it be suggestions, serving on a committee or leading either a committee or the organization. Some members may decide to join the Board. Click the button below to let us know of your interest.
The process is:
• Expression of interest through email or contact of a current Board member
• Personal interview with a committee composed of Board members
• If accepted, placement on a slate of Board candidates, some of whom may be current Board members returning for another term.
• Voting at a General Meeting
The Board itself determines which members take on which roles, including officers.