Second Story Women's Centre in Lunenburg.
Lunenburg Council has taken the next step toward selling the town-owned former train station at 18 Dufferin Street to the Second Story Women’s Centre.
The non-profit has leased the building for years, but now plans to purchase it outright for $383,403. That figure is below the appraised market value of $464,500, but council says the reduced price reflects the social value the Centre provides to the community. Under the Municipal Government Act, a public hearing was required before the deal could move ahead.
Several residents spoke during the hearing, with many expressing strong support for the Centre’s work. Some also raised questions about the building’s heritage features, though it is not designated a registered heritage property.
The sale would include the station building and nearby parking lots, but the adjacent trail corridor will remain public. The Town is also keeping a right-of-way easement to ensure public access.
Following the hearing, council voted to authorize the CAO to work with the Centre to finalize a purchase and sale agreement, incorporating feedback from the public hearing. That final agreement will return to council for approval.
Stephanie Balcome, Executive Director of the Second Story Women’s Centre, says they’re pleased with the outcome and excited to move forward.
“We’re looking forward to continuing to explore this possibility and thrilled that we are doing so with generous donor support,” she said in an email. “It will not detract from any of our programs and services.”
The Centre serves women, girls and gender-diverse individuals in Lunenburg County, offering counselling, advocacy, wellness programs and youth supports. Its work is guided by a vision of gender equity and safe, healthy relationships on the South Shore.
