Lawyer and Toronto Star columnist Bob Aaron has been appointed
to the board of Tarion, Ontario's new home warranty program.
"I've personally known Bob for 30 years and he has a long career in real
estate law and will be a great addition to the board because of his openness
and candour," board chair Harry Herskowitz said.
Tarion regulates builders of new houses and condominiums. It has a
mandate to protect homeowners by administering the Ontario new home warranty
program.
A long time and vocal Tarion critic, Aaron was appointed to a three-year
term last week by Small Business and Entrepreneurship Minister Harinder
Takhar.
"Bob is an excellent addition to the Tarion Board as he brings extensive
knowledge of the real estate marketplace and issues that impact Tarion to
the table. His interest in strong consumer protection makes him a great
advocate and strong voice on behalf of Ontario consumers," said Takhar.
"I'm deeply honoured by the appointment and by the confidence shown by
Minister Takhar," said Aaron. "I hope to bring a consumer perspective to
Tarion, as I have to my Star columns."
Aaron, a lawyer since 1972, was founder and former president of the
Ontario Real Estate Lawyers Association and has been a weekly New in Homes
columnist for the Star since 2000. In his columns, Aaron frequently
chided Tarion for its occasional customer service lapses and policy
shortcomings.
"I have not been a Tarion cheerleader, but although I have been a critic
in the past, I have noticed a sea change under new CEO Howard Bogach and
board chair Harry Herskowitz," Aaron said.
Herskowitz said Aaron is a welcome addition to the board.
"He'll bring a critical analysis and will look at our policies and
procedures with a fresh, fair eye."
Aaron is joining the 16-member board that includes former award-winning
Toronto Star reporter Harold Levy.
