Public Input Sought on Potential Sale of Township-Owned Land in Elmira’s Core

At its meeting on July 22, 2025, Woolwich Township Council held a public meeting to gather community input on the proposed sale of two Township-owned properties located at 22 Church Street West and 3 Maple Street in Elmira.

These two adjacent properties, totaling approximately 6,446 square metres, are located in the heart of Elmira’s Core Area, with significant street frontage along both Church Street West and Maple Street.

While the Township has owned 3 Maple Street for several years, it recently acquired 22 Church Street West (previously owned by Home Hardware) with support from the Housing Accelerator Fund. By consolidating these properties, the Township sees a unique opportunity to support downtown revitalization, housing development, and urban intensification.

Community Feedback and Parking Concerns

Back in 2019, Council initiated a similar process involving a portion of 3 Maple Street. While residents and business owners were generally supportive of redevelopment, concerns were raised about the potential loss of public parking. In response, the Township purchased 6 Maple Street to help address those concerns.

Now, the Township is restarting the surplus land declaration process, this time combining both 3 Maple Street and 22 Church Street West into a single proposal. Notices have been sent to nearby residents and tenants, and published in local media, in accordance with the Township’s Sale and Disposition of Land By-law.

What Happens Next?

The public meeting on July 22 was an opportunity for residents to share feedback before a final decision is made. If Council decides to move forward and declare the properties surplus, they could be sold through a public tender, direct sale, or real estate listing. Sale prices would be based on appraisals and aligned with the Township’s development goals.

A final report and recommendation will be presented to Council on August 12, 2025.

Have Your Say

Residents who wish to provide additional comments or ask questions are encouraged to contact Township staff by August 6, 2025, so that their feedback can be included in the final report.

For more information, please visit Engage Woolwich.