A significant proposed development that threatens the future of Sneaky Dee's, an iconic restaurant and dive bar in downtown Toronto, has been postponed for a decision until later this summer. The venue, which has been a beloved part of the Bathurst and College streets community since 1990, has garnered considerable public support, particularly from music and nacho lovers who gathered at City Hall on Thursday.

During the council meeting, residents passionately voiced their concerns about the proposed 16-storey development. One outspoken supporter, who has frequented Sneaky Dee's for over 15 years and proudly displayed a Sneaky Dee's tattoo, shared, "It means everything to me. I’m a local musician; I love this place with all my heart. To see this proposed development kind of breaks my heart."

Another speaker highlighted the emotional significance of Sneaky Dee's, stating, "I feel that Sneaky Dee’s is more of a home than any apartment you could possibly build. To some people, Sneaky Dee’s may just look like an old graffiti-covered building, but to many of us, it is the most important place on earth."

Councillors, many of whom have their own fond memories of Sneaky Dee's from their youth, expressed a desire to preserve the landmark in all its unique charm. Councillor Josh Matlow emphasized the cultural importance of venues like Sneaky Dee's, asserting, "These are the kind of things that create Toronto’s identity. You wouldn’t want to see the Eiffel Tower redeveloped, and I really refute the idea that you need this debate between building housing and protecting what we value. The best projects can do both."

In contrast, the developer has assured that the venue will remain open until the building is demolished and will return to a new basement space post-construction. Clay Janzen, a senior planner with the Goldberg Group, stated, "This development includes 1,200 square metres of non-residential gross floor area, which has been designed for the future and returning tenants of this building."

However, this promise has not quelled the concerns of the Sneaky Dee's community. Opponents of the development are demanding a legally binding agreement that guarantees the venue can return in its current form. One individual opposing the development expressed skepticism, stating, "There’s nothing on paper, and until there’s an agreement signed, dated, and sealed legally binding? I don’t believe a word they say."

Additionally, Councillor Dianne Saxe voiced her frustration about the situation, acknowledging the challenges communities face in opposing such developments. She remarked, "We have the power to refuse the application, but it doesn’t stop the application, because the [Ontario Land Tribunal] is full of pro-development people and the rules have been stacked against us. Almost all the time, if the city turns something down, the Ontario Land Tribunal approves it anyway, and quite often, they make it worse."

The decision regarding the future of the proposed development, initially submitted in September 2020, has now been deferred until July 8 and 9. As the community rallies to protect their cherished venue, the spotlight remains on the potential implications of development in areas rich with cultural significance.