Neighbourhood retail on Toronto side streets has emerged as a hot-button issue putting locals at odds, and controversy surrounding one community organization's AI-generated fear campaign is just the latest flare-up in this heated debate. However, the group's methods have landed them in the crosshairs of online commenters, and the backlash was swift and immediate. Tate explains that "While the [City] proposal aims to foster opportunities for local neighbourhood retail, it is important to exercise caution. Seljak speaks of businesses run by real people being reworked into AI content, saying, "I'm offended on their behalf." City Council will vote on the Neighbourhood Retail plan during its session on Nov. 14, 2025.