North Battleford approves $1 sale to redevelop vacant Maher building

“$125,000 is going to be less money from the taxpayer to put this building back into production.”

The staff report’s $480,000 demolition estimate includes backfilling and landfill fees.

The city’s contribution of up to $125,000 would cover eligible rehabilitation costs, subject to invoices and satisfactory inspections. The money is already included in the 2026 budget.

The project would also have access to the Downtown Revitalization Program incentive, equivalent to five years without municipal property taxes.

The buyer initially requested an additional property tax exemption of up to two years while renovations were underway.

Administration told council that request was excluded from the recommendation because legislation does not allow the city to grant more than five years. Staff said the buyer accepted proceeding without the additional exemption.

The proposed redevelopment could include retail, office or studio space, with residential units on the second floor. The report anticipates four phases of work over approximately 24 months.

Hawtin did not give a date for the initial phase, saying its timing would be up to the developer.

She said the building has room to accommodate additional services and space downtown.

“It’s nothing but positive when we can get some occupancy downtown. More people downtown supporting the environment and the other businesses downtown.”

The two-storey building and its basement have a total area of approximately 13,836 square feet.

Asbestos has been remediated, but the report says extensive renovations are still needed before the building can be used again. Those include plumbing, electrical, heating and ventilation upgrades, basement concrete and insulation work, roofing, windows and interior finishing.

The purchase and redevelopment agreement must address permitted uses and the redevelopment schedule, along with compliance with building codes, permits and inspections.

Administration told council an earlier tender attracted no offers.

According to the report, staff showed the building to eight interested people before advertising it for $1 with $125,000 in assistance for cleanup and bringing it up to code.

The listing generated more than 41 inquiries, and staff conducted viewings with approximately 15 prospective purchasers and their preferred contractors. Only one formal offer was received.

City staff have been working with the prospective buyer since that conditional offer arrived in March 2026, continuing discussions about the redevelopment and sale terms.

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Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com

by Kenneth Cheung

North Battleford approves $1 sale to redevelop vacant Maher building

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