Patro D’Ottawa FAQ

With the right of first refusal issue, will the City buy back the Patro annex?
“At this time, Patro d’Ottawa has not advised the City of an intent to sell or transfer the building. The right of first refusal would only be applied by the City if Patro decides to sell or transfer ownership of their portion of the building.”

Is Patro staying put?
“Patro d’Ottawa has indicated to the City that they wish to integrate their organization into Montfort Renaissance. The City has not been provided details of what this integration would mean or what impact this would have on either Patro or Montfort Renaissance.”

Why is the City cutting ties with this community organization?
“The City has not cut ties with Patro d’Ottawa. We have communicated our preference to discontinue the lease of the City-owned portion of 40 Cobourg Street to Patro or have their organization manage that section of the building. The existing agreements, including funding to support programming, can continue based on Patro indicating that they wish to continue the partnership and providing details of the programming they wish the deliver with City support.”

With the possibility that Patro may not exist without City funding, will the City offer the same services to the population?
“The City is not cutting funding to Patro d’Ottawa. We have indicated that funding can continue if Patro wishes to continue operations and submits a programming plan for the City’s consideration.”

The Patro building is not for sale by Patro, so why did the City request for first look of the building? And by the same token, why decide to break the 75-year contract? 
“The City sent Patro d’Ottawa a letter reminding the organization of the City’s right of first refusal on their property based on statements made by Montfort Renaissance representatives that they would be taking over the property. As approved by Council on November 8, the current lease to Patro for the City-owned portion of the building is ending so that the City can assume direct management of the space, broaden the scope of programming at the site, and ensure that optimal use of the facility through programming and rental to community groups.”

Has the City requested access to the organization’s expenses and finances to justify the use of funds?
“The City reviewed the programming offered by Patro this fall before releasing their last payment for 2023. Patro had cancelled programs and the City wished to confirm that sufficient services were provided to justify the release of funds. The City is requesting a programming proposal and financial details for any services Patro wishes the City to support in 2024, which is standard practice and part of our customary renewal of service agreements with community partners.”

Is the City considering continuing a partnership where the Patro could continue to offer services?
“The City is willing to continue supporting Patro d’Ottawa and is awaiting a proposal from them.”

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