(Click Button below to read the actual report)
June 16, 2025 – Staff Report that recommends the Lease Agreement of the St. Columbo site to ArtsBuild Ontario for up to 3 years
1) In the City Council Meeting June 16, 2025, the Economic Staff recommends the acceptance of the Lease Agreement report as shown below.
2) In February 2025, Council approved via report CAO2025-008 the acquisition of the land and facility at 250 Lincoln Road as part of a broader redevelopment project. Council also authorized the temporary use of the existing facility (St. Columba) as a City programming space, specifically supporting arts organizations for a period of up to three years. Mid to longer term (3+ years) the site is envisioned for redevelopment including affordable housing. The current building is expected to be demolished and replaced with up to 25 stacked townhouse units. As part of future planning, Council may also consider a mixed-use development option that would retain space for public programming on site.
3) In recommending the Lease to ArtsBuild Ontario it was envisioned that the space at the St. Columbo site could be used for:
• Studio and rehearsal space
• Shared amenities for small arts organizations
• Performance, exhibition, or community gathering areas
• Longer-term (up to 3 years) tenancies to address instability for arts groups