Toronto Star

Even in a city not known for administrative genius, there are exceptions. One is that perennial paragon of progress and productivity, the Toronto Public Library. Never have so few made so little go so far. The other is Toronto Community Housing Corporation. In its six-year existence, TCHC has done more to change the reality and perception of social housing than we've seen since it appeared half a century ago. This despite the fact the existence of the organization is a testament to "senior" governments' indifference to affordable housing. Though much criticized for the dreadful condition of many of its almost 60,000 units, it's easy to forget that TCHC started life as a dumping ground. Under the leadership of CEO Derek Ballantyne, however, it is a highly successful city agency known for its innovation and efficiency. In his book, Urban Nation, published this year, Toronto financier and philanthropist Alan Broadbent calls Ballantyne "one of the most talented business managers in Canada." It's not hard to understand where his enthusiasm comes from. Ballantyne has organized a series of rebuilding schemes that are already changing the face of the city.