When it comes to taking over the land formerly occupied by the Abitibi paper mill, have patience is the message coming from the Town of Grand Falls-Windsor.
The issue was the subject of a short conversation at a council meeting Oct. 21.
It’s been close to four years since the town started the process to take ownership of the land formerly owned by the paper company.
The provincial government expropriated the land around 10 years ago, following the closure of the operation by Abitibi in 2009.
The town started lobbying to take ownership of the property shortly after the expropriation.
It continues to work with the provincial government to finalize an agreement.
“We cannot and will not rush into anything that would put the town in a disadvantaged position in the future,” said Mayor Barry Manuel during the meeting.
When it eventually takes over, Grand Falls-Windsor would own the land and its existing properties.
This includes a training centre, a portion of road known in the community as the 'Mills Stretch', as well as Grand Falls House.
There are a number of directions the town could go in terms of usage. It could be used for walking trails or green space. There could be small business and tourism opportunities tied to it as well.
“We have to ensure that any land transfer protects council, protects the town not only now but into the near and distant future,” said Manuel.
There is no anticipated date when the town could take control of the asset.
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