Welcome to the latest chapter of the Auchmar saga. The details are different than in previous chapters, but the storyline is the same.
In 1999, the City of Hamilton acquired the historic home of Isaac Buchanan, built between 1852 and 1854. The estate has huge historical and heritage merit, but its value has been overshadowed by the challenges it poses. It was crumbling when the city acquired it from a developer who wanted to turn it into a subdivision at the corner of Fennell and West 5th.
Since then, taxpayers have pumped millions into Auchmar, just to keep it stable and safe. The status quo is not sustainable. A solution must be found that balances heritage value with today’s economic reality.
Read more here: http://www.thespec.com/opinion-story/4596643-the-spectator-s-view-auchmar-saga-needs-to-take-a-dramatic-turn/