A councillor from the Halifax Regional Municipality is urging the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to provide an update concerning the municipality's buyback rights for the site where the former Bloomfield School stands. This request comes in light of a recent fire that damaged the property significantly.
On February 18, around 1:35 a.m., firefighters responded to a three-alarm fire at the former school located on Agricola Street in Halifax's north end. Upon arrival, they found the blaze affecting both the first floor and the basement of the structure. A total of 49 firefighters were deployed to combat the situation effectively, overcoming challenges posed by barricaded windows and doors.
The fire was officially declared under control at 5:45 a.m.; however, it resulted in the complete destruction of one building on the site. Fortunately, the response efforts succeeded in preventing the flames from spreading to other sections of the former school, which is important given the historical significance of the property. As of now, the cause of the fire remains undetermined, prompting concerns from local officials regarding the municipality's role in the site's preservation and future use.
The former Bloomfield School has been unoccupied since its closure in 2014. After being purchased in 2021, the site has continued to remain vacant, leading to questions about its future. District 8 Councillor Virginia Hinch has expressed the need for transparency and information to be provided to the council, so they can explore possible solutions regarding the “unsatisfactory situation” currently plaguing the property.
Councilor Hinch is advocating for a motion that, if passed, would request the CAO to compile a staff report detailing available options for addressing the ongoing issues at the school site. This report would also include strategies for potential cost recovery related to any necessary actions. Additionally, it would serve as an update to the council on the municipality’s buyback rights concerning the property.
This motion holds significance as the council is set to vote on the matter on February 25. The outcome could influence future decisions about the Bloomfield School site and address the concerns raised by both residents and local officials regarding safety and heritage preservation. As the municipality navigates the implications of the recent fire, it is crucial to evaluate the role it can play in the revitalization or recovery of the area, ensuring a balance between historical respect and community safety.
