Kaitlin Corporation has formally offered to transfer ownership of its remaining heritage buildings and surrounding open-space lands to the Municipality of Clarington.
Kaitlin Corporation currently owns five of the six remaining heritage buildings and the land that makes up the former WWII prisoner-of-war camp. This proposal, if accepted, would bring the entire site—including all six remaining heritage buildings, trails, and open-space—under public ownership, according to the Jury Lands Foundation (JLF), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving the historic Camp 30 site.
Crucial Vote
“This offer comes at a critical juncture, as Clarington Council is already scheduled to vote on October 20 on the future of the Cafeteria Building, which the municipality currently owns. That vote will determine if the structure is demolished or preserved,” said a JLF statement.
Under the terms of the offer, the transfer would specifically include:
- The remaining five heritage buildings (including the Triple Dormitory Block).
- The surrounding open-space lands located within the Ring Road.
Financial Contribution
Furthermore, Kaitlin has proposed a financial contribution equal to the estimated demolition costs. This contribution would be directed toward either restoration efforts (if preservation is chosen) or commemoration efforts (if demolition proceeds), the statement said.
JLF Chair Marilyn Morawetz stated, “This offer represents an unprecedented opportunity to protect an entire national heritage site under public ownership. If accepted, even in part, it will show that collaboration between the private sector, government, and the community is possible.”
Heart of only WWII battle fought on Canadian soil
The JLF emphasized that the council decision on October 20 is pivotal, noting that the Cafeteria Building is considered “the heart of the only WWII battle ever fought on Canadian soil.”
The Jury Lands Foundation said it continues to pursue heritage grants and fundraising efforts to make the site’s restoration a reality.
Members of the public are strongly encouraged to attend the Clarington Council meeting on October 20, starting at 5 pm, and to sign the ongoing petition at change.org/savecamp30.
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