Another stunning twist in the LeBreton redevelopment process. Although at this point, saga may be a more appropriate word.
With the termination of their agreement looming, the RendezVous LeBreton group, backed by Ottawa Senators Owner Eugene Melnyk and Trinity Development Executive Director John Ruddy, is being given one last chance to sort out their differences.
Yesterday afternoon we learned that Warren Winkler, the mediator working with Melnyk and Ruddy, had applied for a one month extension. Rather than have the NCC terminate the agreement RVL this weekend as planned, he requested that the deadline be moved to February 28th. Presumably, because the mediator feels there is a chance they might be able to resolve their $1.7 billion dollar disagreement.
And late yesterday, the NCC granted that extension.
#LeBretonFlats update: Following the request made by the Hon. Warren K. Winkler, Q.C., the NCC Board of Directors agreed to extend the termination date to February 28, 2019. #ottawa #lebreton #ottnews pic.twitter.com/tjC9fdA37d
— National Capital Commission (@NCC_CCN) January 15, 2019
It’s sort of a surprising decision by the NCC when you consider that the two sides have been bickering for the better part of two years. At the same time, this is probably about the NCC trying to save face too. Having this process fall apart at this stage is a bad look for everyone involved. And starting over would be a disaster.
And when you consider that the new NCC CEO Tobi Nussbaum is expected to take over next month, it’s probably convenient timing for the NCC too.
But it doesn’t stop there.
On last night’s local news, CTV reported that according to their sources, DCDLS (the runner-up in this process) is also involved in the mediation discussion.
BREAKING: CTV News has learned that DCDLS, the losing bidder to redevelop Lebreton Flats, has joined with Trinity Development in mediation talks with Eugene Melnyk and the Ottawa Senators #ottnews
— CTV Ottawa (@ctvottawa) January 15, 2019
As we know, DCDLS has been lurking on the sidelines throughout. Through their spokesperson, they have frequently let it be known that they are ready to take over. And at one point last December, they even went so far as to suggest that should things fall apart with RVL, the NCC is obligated to negotiate with the runner-up.
Press release from DCDLS. Suggesting the NCC has the “legal obligation” to enter negotiations with their group. Another twist in the LeBreton process. #Ottawa pic.twitter.com/KguzmUHTso
— SensChirp (@SensChirp) December 20, 2018
Exactly where they fit in to the discussions between Melnyk and Ruddy remains unclear.
It’s worth pointing out that while their recent media appearances have downplayed the possibility, they have been clear about their interest in buying the Senators in the past.
As a reminder, here is what Poulin said back in January. pic.twitter.com/Weyd2kVtQ3
— SensChirp (@SensChirp) December 3, 2018
Any chance those hearings can be made available on pay-per-view?
