A portion of the old Kent Flour Mill is going to be tendered for demolition and removal following a unanimous decision of Yorkton Council at its regular meeting Monday.The public though will have an opportunity for input on the decision if they wish at the next meeting June 28.City Clerk Bonny Schenher explained Council had considered removal of the Municipal Heritage Status on the property in January, which started a process not yet complete."However, four objections were received from the public regarding the removal of the Municipal Heritage Status. Therefore in accordance with The Heritage Property Act, Council referred this matter to the Provincial Review Board in order for them to conduct a hearing and provide their recommendation regarding the removal of the Municipal Heritage Status. Due to Provincial budget constraints and changes in process this matter has not yet proceeded to a Public Hearing, but would be proceeding shortly," she explained.
Since then Schenher said a visual appraisal of the property took place in May. Following the inspection the facility was discussed.
"It is our opinion that significant deterioration has occurred especially to the elevator. This deterioration presents major safety concerns and serious consideration of the fact that the building is past the point of being economically feasible to repair," she said.
Another development with the property took place in May when the City took title to the property through the Tax Enforcement Process, said Schenher.
"As owners, Council has the full right to decide what we would like to do with any buildings on this property," she said.
As a result Schenher said it was recommended work be undertaken.
"We request that Council consider tendering the demolition of all the buildings except the old mill portion. When the site is cleaned the property will be tendered for sale. The likelihood of someone purchasing the site and retrofitting the mill building would be greater once the rest of the site is cleaned up. The parcel of land is approximately 1.5 acres in size and there is potential to sub-divide the land to provide for a parcel with the Mill on it and a bare land parcel for commercial development," she said.
At the same time a window for public input was left open.
"As part of this process, we would like a Public Hearing held at the next meeting of Council to provide any interested parties with an opportunity to address Council or provide their written comments in this respect. This process would allow for Council to alleviate safety concerns while maintaining the actual Mill site and retaining the Municipal Heritage status on the property. At the same time, the property would become more attractive for resale and development. We will advise the four people that had previously voiced their concerns of this new recommendation and provide them the opportunity to address Council," said Schenher.
Council was unanimous in support of the recommendation.
