It’s going to be a green new year in downtown Elora.
On Dec. 18, Centre Wellington renewed its lease arrangement with Suncor for use of the property at the northwest corner of Mill and Metcalfe Streets (officially designated as 25 Mill St. W.).
Chief building official Randy Bossence told councillors he was recently approached by Suncor as it was interested in renewing the lease of the property to the township. The township’s previous five-year agreement with Suncor was set to end on Dec. 31.
The renewal, which continues the existing terms and conditions, extends the lease to Dec. 31, 2022.
Bossence said in terms of cost, it essentially amounted to the township covering the property taxes.
Conditions include:
– six month notice of termination should one party choose to step away from the agreement; and
– the township pays all property taxes of about $6,500 annually.
The agreement allows the township to use the property for the:
– installation of public art;
– installing and maintaining tourist information signage;
– installing and maintaining landscaping improvements such as the planting of trees, shrubs and perennials;
– installing and maintaining a stone dust or paved walkway; and
– installing and maintaining a decorative arbour.
The greenspace is a popular location in downtown Elora and staff supported the renewal of the lease.
For roughly 80 years, a gas station occupied the corner of Metcalfe and Mill Street West.
The hard work and dedication of volunteers and gd donations from within the community changed the site into an urban oasis of greenery in the heart of downtown Elora.
Councillor Fred Morris agreed “it is a beautiful little spot in downtown Elora and certainly sees a lot of use.”
He added “$6,500 per year, is a small price to pay for such a wonderful addition to downtown Elora.”
Morris asked what would happen if the township no longer had an interest in the property and further in what condition would it need to be returned to the owner.
CAO Andy Goldie explained all the improvements made to the site – such as landscaping, signs and artwork would need to be removed.
Essentially, the property would be returned to a gravelled lot covered with topsoil.
Council approved renewal of the lease agreement.
