Post Office Preservation
June 12, 2012
The City of Melfort and Avatex Devcorp Inc. signed an historic agreement to preserve and protect the former Post Office building for possible future rehabilitation. This building is nearly 100 years old and is not only the most recognizable landmark in the community but also has significant historical value. It is one of only three remaining examples of Romanesque Revival Architecture built in the Prairie Provinces by the Federal Government prior to 1914.
Avatex Devcorp. Inc. has taken ownership of this important asset and has agreed to offer it to the City of Melfort for the sum of $1.00. John Burton with Avatex is currently developing the StoneGate Shopping Centre in Melfort. He stated “We believe the Old Post Office presents an opportunity for Avatex to play an active role in strengthening Main Street, and by extension, help in a small way to add to the quality of the community as a whole.”
The City of Melfort will purchase the building within the next three years. In the meanwhile the parties explore possible future usage for the building and will work together to preserve the building to protect it from further deterioration. Mayor Doug Terry stated “The building has sat vacant for nearly a decade since Canada Post relocated to a new facility. Further deterioration of this important community landmark would put the future of this building at risk. To lose this important piece of Canadian History would be a terrible loss to the downtown business district and the entire community. Steps must be taken to take care and control of this building before this opportunity is lost forever.”