After the circulation of a press release announcing the fate of the John Sleeth Community and Cultural Centre some citizens were unsatisfied with the answers.

The first press release indicated 5 businesses, most of which are public services, are basically being evicted come September. This not only affects the businesses but also the citizens that use them. The community centre is home to a library and daycare to name a few.

Following some comments of outrage regarding the first press release “the Town of Sutton Council has reassessed its action plan concerning the future of the John Sleeth Community and Cultural Centre in response to concerns expressed by its resident organisations,” stated Communications Service of the Town of Sutton.

The physical structure has been in Sutton for decades. Some citizens believe it is a crucial part of the towns heritage.

“The council recognizes the importance of the built heritage of Sutton and the attachment of the population to its history. Its preservation has always been one of our values, subject however to the principles of sound management and the financial consequences for the town and its taxpayers,” explained Michel Lafrance, Mayor of Sutton

In response to the concerns the town has hired the company ProspecPlus to re-evaluate the integrity of the structure and estimate the associated costs of renovation. The inspection process should begin mid-march and finish mid-april. All results will be made public following the receival by the town.

In positive news, the resident businesses of the building can stay longer than expected. Previously they need to vacate by September, however, their re-location will be extended until answers are found.

“We intend to hold further meetings with each of the organisations in the John Sleeth Centre to discuss the inevitable relocation. The Town’s intention has always been to support them in this process,” said Pascal Smith, Director General of Sutton.

Here is Mayor Michel Lafrance speaking with CIDI: