Lincoln, ON – (September 9, 2021) – The Town of Lincoln is pleased to announce its intent to purchase the surplus property that currently houses the Beamsville District Secondary School (BDSS) from the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN).
While the DSBN has not yet begun the process for the disposal of the BDSS property, discussions between the DSBN and the Town of Lincoln have been taking place regarding the future potential for the site.
To move forward, the Town of Lincoln will create a letter of intent to purchase the property, marking the first step towards a formal agreement.
The Town of Lincoln and District School Board of Niagara will work cooperatively with the Lincoln community and stakeholders to review potential plans for the BDSS site, underlining the history of collaboration between the two organizations.
Quotes:
Town of Lincoln:
“Once again, the Town of Lincoln is showing leadership by taking initiative on matters that will have a positive impact on Lincoln and all of west Niagara. This site will be a focal point and central hub in Lincoln and contribute to the long-term health and well-being of the community,” said Town of Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton.
“This is a tremendous opportunity to take ownership of a property that is not only centrally located in Beamsville and within walking distance of many amenities and services, but one that is also rich in history. The site has great potential and we’re pleased to be the primary partner at the table on this important land purchase that has many potential community benefits,” said the Town’s CAO Michael Kirkopoulos.
District School Board of Niagara:
“The Town of Lincoln and DSBN have long worked together with the community’s best interests at heart, and ensuring that the beautiful BDSS building stays part of West Niagara is an excellent example of this collaborative partnership,” said Sue Barnett, DSBN Chair of the Board.
“Beamsville District Secondary School was founded in 1888 and has been a valued part of the West Niagara community since that time; for over 130 years. Thousands of students have learned in that building, and countless memories were made at the school and friendships were formed. It’s an important piece of the community, and we are pleased that the BDSS building will continue serving West Niagara in the years to come,” said Warren Hoshizaki, DSBN Director of Education.
Key Facts:
- Site: Beamsville District Secondary School, 4317 Central Avenue, Beamsville, Ontario
- The purchase transaction is conditional on the following:
- Declaration of surplus by the School Board (once vacated);
- Ministry of Education approves the disposition of the School Site (standard process);
- Offers are made to prescribed bodies (including the Province, the separate school boards, French language board, the Town of Lincoln, the Regional Municipality of Niagara and other listed public entities
- Approval by DSBN Trustees
- Further details of the purchase are currently confidential and cannot be shared at this time.
- Next steps and timelines are as follows:
- Legal terms reviewed by both parties.
- Town of Lincoln staff team to be developed that will begin planning work for the site.
- A citizen engagement strategy to be developed to discuss plans for the site.
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For media inquiries, please contact:
Town of Lincoln:
Liliana Busnello
Manager of Corporate Communications
Direct: 905-563-2799 ext. 230
Tel: 905-563-8205
lbusnello@lincoln.ca
District School Board of Niagara:
Kim Sweeney
Chief Communications Officer
Tel: 905-641-1550 ext. 54160
kim.yielding@dsbn.org