On June 24, the Town of Lunenburg’s Council held a public hearing to discuss the proposed the sale of 18 Dufferin Street (commonly referred to as the Old Train Station) to the Second Storey Women’s Centre, a nonprofit that has long leased the Town-owned building.
The proposed sale would see the property sold to the Second Story Women’s Centre at a price below market value - as allowed by the Municipal Government Act - in recognition of the community benefit provided by the Centre.
The proposal stems from a request from Second Story Women’s Centre, as they look to long-term stability by securing a permanent location with no fear of being displaced. The sale would ensure that these vital services remain in Lunenburg and this location provides a unique opportunity for discreet access for clients.
The situation and opportunity are the impetus for this proposed sale. Second Story Women’s Centre, being a non-profit, means that this sale would not require the process of putting out a RFP, as the Town has no interest in selling 18 Dufferin Street to a private developer.