Sask. Stock Growers Association facing eviction from REAL District

The SSGA says it’s facing eviction from REAL District after nearly 50 years as a tenant. Donovan Maess reports.

The Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) will be vacating its offices on the REAL District after nearly 50 years of serving as a tenant on the business campus.

According to SSGA President Kelly Williamson, the organization was recently issued an eviction notice.

“The 30-day eviction notice has put us in a very difficult position. While we anticipated there could be changes following the change in ownership, it is deeply disappointing that, after 45 years as a tenant, we are being treated in this manner,” he said in a statement to CTV News.

The notice of lease termination cites the ongoing sale of numerous REAL District properties to Brandt. In the letter, REAL claims the space the SSGA currently leases is: “required for other uses and construction activities.”

The lease is set to be terminated effective July 19, according to the letter.

In his statement, Williamson pointed to the fact that many of the buildings on the REAL District were built with the support of the agriculture sector.

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He also shared concerns that further changes could lead to a loss of critical infrastructure for the Canadian Western Agribition.

“Canadian Western Agribition is an internationally renowned livestock show that generates significant economic activity for Saskatchewan and Canada,” Williamson explained.

“We are concerned that the proposed changes could jeopardize the future of the event as we know it and undermine an institution that has long been a source of pride for our province’s agricultural sector.”

Brandt’s REAL District purchase was approved by city council in May.

The deal includes the Ag-Ex Building, Canada Centre Building, Commercial Cattle Barn, Queensbury Convention Centre, Stockman’s Building, the Brandt Centre, the Agribition Building, the land lease for the McDonald’s located at 1810 Exhibition Parkway and the parking lot west of Mosaic Stadium.

Brandt will assume existing leases, sponsorship, food and beverage and service agreements related to the buildings, as well as all event bookings or contracts. The company will also assume all REAL employment contracts.

Brandt is expected to complete phase one of the deal by July 1, while aiming to have full possession of its buildings by Sept. 1.

“We recognize the long history and important role these agricultural organizations play, and we understand the concerns this creates,” a spokesperson for Brandt said in an emailed statement to CTV News.

Brandt declined an interview request from CTV News Tuesday.

“REAL continues to lead tenant relations and manage existing leases as the purchase process moves forward. Brandt is working closely with REAL, who is engaging directly with tenants, to ensure a thoughtful and respectful approach and to explore options that help minimize impact and accommodate organizations where possible on site,” the statement added.