Lemoine Point Farm property suspected to be on ‘closed’ council agenda

Story by Christena Lawrie, CFRC's Broadcast Journalist & Local Journalism Initiative Reporter.

Concerns are growing amongst the Save Lemoine Point Farm group (SLPF) and supporters as they suspect the fate of the property may have been discussed in a closed session ahead of last night’s council meeting. 

The 82-acre property has been in limbo since the passing of the previous owner over two years ago, during which SLPF has advocated for public interest in preserving the land rich in biodiversity and opportunities for community use.

The agenda item listed in the ‘closed-door’ portion of the council meeting, which started at 5 P.M., ahead of the public 7 P.M. meeting, reads, "Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, and a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board - Waterfront Property."

SLPF believes there is “a high probability” that the waterfront property in question is Lemoine Point Farm.

Chris Cannon, a spokesperson for SLPF stated in a release, “We have no way of knowing if the 'waterfront acquisition' item for Council’s closed door meeting is the Farm. In case it is, we want Council to know about the widespread community support for preserving this precious waterfront property and the various funding sources we have identified.”

SLPF, concerned that crucial decisions about the farm's future could be made behind closed doors this evening, sent out a message to their supporters and a letter to council on Monday making their case.

The letter outlined the passionate community backing for the preservation of Lemoine Point Farm, citing the stormy winter night earlier this year when community members gathered to share their ideas for the property, nearly 500 individuals signed up for their email list, and over a thousand social media followers across platforms. 

They highlighted potential options for financial support offered by organizations like the Schad Foundation and LodgePole Arts Alliance, emphasizing the large-scale support for conserving the site and the feasibility of maintaining the property. They also made note that various wealthy individuals that are supportive of initiatives for local sustainable agriculture have expressed interest in contributing for acquisition or ongoing stewardship of the Lemoine Point Farm.

The Save Lemoine Point Farm group urged Kingstonians to take action by contacting the Mayor and City Councillors, urging them to consider public sentiment before the closed-door discussion. They stated in a facebook post “It will be very helpful for Council members to hear from as many Kingstonians as possible that the public cares deeply about protecting this land for future generations.”

They finished the letter stating, “We summarize by saying the City of Kingston has widespread support for acquiring the Lemoine Point Farm. We stand with you in the commitment that you each made at the time of the election to support the public acquisition and conservation of the farm.”

CFRC reached out to the city for comment on the agenda item, but further information was not disclosed due to the closed nature of the meeting.