The Ordeal of Martin Ross

In a surprising turn of events that has sparked community discussions, a father from Markham, Ontario, has had to dismantle the beloved hockey rink he constructed for his children after a lengthy legal dispute with neighbors and city officials. Martin Ross, who operates a hockey school in the Greater Toronto Area, shared his frustration with the media, emphasizing the profound impact the rink's removal has had on his family.

Origin of the Dispute

The ordeal began in 2021 when Ross, during the pandemic, built a boards-enclosed ice pad on his property. It quickly became a winter haven for his two children and their friends. However, the joy of the rink turned into a contentious issue when neighbors accused Ross of cutting down aged trees that were part of the designated heritage landscape in the area. This led to a lawsuit, with the opposing parties claiming that the extensive removal of green space transformed the 'oasis' of Ross's yard into an eyesore, robbing the community of its peaceful atmosphere.

Court Ruling and Consequences

In a ruling from a 2022 Superior Court, city officials were authorized to step in and remove the rink under a heritage easement agreement connected to Ross's property. The court ordered him to restore the yard to its state before the rink's construction, a directive that adds a layer of complexity to his family's situation.

Impact on Family

Ross recounted the emotional toll it has taken on his children, particularly as winter sets in and perfect conditions for outdoor ice skating emerge. 'You couldn’t have better weather than this right now for an outdoor rink,' he lamented. 'It’s hard for me, but it’s even harder for my kids who loved having that space to play.'

Uncertainty and Future Plans

The city communicated its intention to inspect the property for compliance with the court order, but Ross revealed that an unexpected cancellation of that visit left him in the dark about the next steps. This uncertainty, combined with the abrupt end to his children's winter fun, has left his family feeling despondent.

Looking Forward

Looking ahead, Ross is contemplating different options for the rink itself, pondering whether to find another location for it, rent it out, or sell it. 'We got to pick up the pieces and, you know, keep moving forward,' he said with a sense of resilience.

Community Discussions

The case has ignited conversations in the community regarding property rights, heritage preservation, and the balance between individual enjoyment and collective neighborhood interests. As the winter chill sets in, Ross's story is a poignant reminder of the complexities of community living and the sometimes painful compromises that come with it.