Kenricia Revitalization Project

The City announced on July 24, 2025, that it is proceeding with the expropriation of the historic Kenricia Hotel as part of its efforts to revitalize Kenora’s downtown core. This initiative aims to create a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving community space for residents and visitors alike.

The City and Council are dedicated to revitalizing Kenora’s downtown and understands that preserving this historic building, which is an iconic feature of Kenora’s skyline, is essential for our community’s heritage and for strengthening its unique identity.

What is expropriation

Expropriation is a legal process that allows the government or a municipality to take ownership of private property, like a building or land, for public use. This can happen when the property is needed for projects that benefit the community.

The process follows strict legal rules, outlined in the Expropriations Act of Ontario, to ensure it is fair and transparent. Property owners are compensated based on the property's fair market value, and efforts are made to support those affected throughout the process.

Expropriation process steps

View the expropriation process steps 1 to 8.

Flow chart with colours and numbers showing steps in expropriation process

The following outlines the standard process under the Expropriations Act:

1. Council Resolution

Council passes a resolution identifying the public purpose, of community improvement and heritage preservation, and authorizes initiation of expropriation proceedings.

2. Notice of Application for Approval to Expropriate

The municipality then serves all registered owners, which includes tenants per the Expropriations Act, with a Notice of Application for Approval to Expropriate and publishes the notice in a local newspaper for three (3) consecutive weeks.

3. Hearing of Necessity

Owners then have thirty (30) days to request a Hearing of Necessity from the Ontario Land Tribunal, to challenge the need or extent of the expropriation. If requested, an Inquiry Officer is appointed and a hearing is held. The Inquiry Officer recommendations are advisory only however and Council makes the final decision on whether to proceed with the expropriation.

4. Certificate of Approval

If Council then approves proceeding with the expropriation, without or after a Hearing of Necessity, a Certificate of Approval is issued, allowing the process to proceed.

5. Registration of Expropriation Plan

The municipality then registers a Plan of Expropriation at the local land registry office within three (3) months of Council approval. Title to the lands vests in the municipality upon registration of the Plan of Expropriation.

6. Notice of Expropriation

Within thirty (30) days of registration of the Plan of Expropriation, the municipality serves all owners with a Notice of Expropriation, a Notice of Election (regarding valuation date) and Notice of Possession date.

The owners may elect to have compensation valued as of the date of any Notice of Hearing of Necessity being served on the municipality, the date the Plan of Expropriation was registered, or the date when owners were served with the Notice of Expropriation.

Valuation is based upon the fair market value at the date selected, as confirmed by appraisal.

7. Offer of Compensation

Within three (3) months of registration of the Expropriation Plan, the municipality must provide the owners with a written offer of compensation, based on appraised fair market value, though the land is already vested in the municipality upon the registration.

Tenant compensation would depend upon the terms of their leases, if any, or basic rights pursuant to the Residential Tenancies Act in absence of a written lease, and potentially minor relocation costs.

8. Possession

The municipality may take possession of the property after the required notice period as outlined in the Notice of Possession and the offer of compensation being made.

Frequently asked questions

View the Frequently Asked Questions about expropriation and the revitalization project.

Why is the City of Kenora expropriating the Kenricia Hotel?

The City is expropriating the Kenricia Hotel to advance its efforts in community improvements and heritage rehabilitation and preservation. This initiative aims to revitalize Kenora’s downtown core, creating a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving space for residents and visitors alike.

The City is committed to preserving this historic building, which is an iconic feature of Kenora’s skyline, recognizing its vital role in safeguarding our community’s heritage and strengthening its unique identity.

How does the expropriation process work?

The process follows strict legal rules, outlined in the Expropriations Act, to ensure it is fair and transparent. The process begins with the City passing a resolution to expropriate the property for public benefit. The owners and tenants are then notified, and there’s an opportunity for them to request a hearing if they wish. If the City proceeds, a formal approval is granted, and the property is registered in the City’s name. Owners are then offered compensation based on fair market value. The City can take possession of the property after this process is completed. Throughout, the process is transparent and follows legal requirements to ensure fair treatment for all parties involved. For full details, see Expropriation process steps above.

How will the City ensure the historic significance of the Kenricia Hotel is preserved?

As a designated heritage building, the restoration of the Kenricia Hotel will follow heritage preservation standards to maintain its historical features and significance for future generations. This is why it is so important that the City is taking action now, to ensure that the building remains a cherished part of Kenora’s iconic skyline and community identity.

Choosing an experienced partners is a vital step in this process. Expertise will help guarantee that the restoration respects the building’s heritage while revitalizing it to support our community’s growth and vibrancy. This approach ensures we preserve Kenora’s rich history while fostering a thriving downtown for years to come.

How is the City supporting tenants and businesses impacted by this expropriation?

Existing tenant and business agreements will be managed carefully to minimize disruption. The City is committed to working with tenants and providing support during this transition.

The City will be actively engaging with the Kenora District Services Board (KDSB) to explore housing solutions for tenants and individuals affected by this process, ensuring their needs are thoughtfully addressed.

The City will be connecting with business tenants to support them through the transition and to minimize the impact of this action as much as possible.

What is the timeline for this project?

It is difficult to say, but the expropriation can take approximately 6 to 9 months. The timeline will be shared as the process progresses. The City is working to move forward efficiently while ensuring all steps are conducted legally and responsibly, alignment with the steps specified in the Expropriations Act of Ontario.

Will this project create new opportunities or jobs in the community?

Yes. The revitalization of the Kenricia Hotel is expected to attract new investment, support local businesses, and create opportunities for economic development and job growth.

History of the Kenricia Hotel

Black and white photo of large brick building with columns The Kenricia Hotel is a prominent landmark and stands out in Kenora’s downtown skyline. Construction began in 1907 and first opened its doors in 1910.

The Town of Kenora first owned the iconic building and leased it for many years. In 1932, the hotel was then sold to a private investor. At that time, the name "Kenricia" was created, combining “Ken” from from Kenora and “ricia” from the regional monicker of “Patricia”.

Updates

For the latest updates, please visit the News section.

Subscribe to the City’s Media Release, Public Notices, and the City Compass eNewsletter to receive City news and updates direct to your inbox.

Notice of Application for Approval to Expropriate published in Miner & News on July 31, August 7, and August 14.
On July 24, 2025, the City announces expropriation of historic Kenricia Hotel to support downtown revitalization.
On July 24, 2025, Council passes a resolution identifying the public purpose of community improvement and heritage preservation) and authorizes initiation of expropriation proceedings.

Comments

For questions or comments, please contact Stace Gander, Acting Co-CAO / Director of Economic Development and Tourism at sgander@kenora.ca.