The acquisition of the Manoir Lafontaine by a non-profit organization is a “great victory” which puts an end to a fight like “David against Goliath”, rejoiced Monday the mayor of Montreal.
Renovations and abusive rent increases, “it’s not inevitable,” said Valérie Plante, formalizing a contribution of 5.6 million to the financial package.
The Manoir Lafontaine, a 14-storey tower built in the 1960s facing the park of the same name, had become a symbol of the struggle of tenants against renovations two years ago.
After being in the hands of a single owner for decades, it was acquired in 2019 by property developers who wanted to renovate it from top to bottom. The tenants suspected them of wanting to make it a luxury building, while the rents there were very affordable.
PHOTO PATRICK SANFAÇON, LA PRESSE ARCHIVES
Valerie Plante
It was the non-profit organization Interloge which bought the building two weeks ago, thanks to the support of the public authorities and the Mouvement Desjardins. He intends to renovate the building to maintain low-cost housing there.
“Manoir Lafontaine has long symbolized the resistance of tenants to renovations. I congratulate you again on all your efforts,” added the Minister of Housing, France-Élaine Duranceau. “In a rapidly changing real estate context, I think this is an outcome of which we should be proud. Saving Manoir Lafontaine proves that there are solutions to the housing shortage and lack of affordability. »
Mme Plante promised to renew the experience.
“We will continue to buy buildings and land for social and affordable housing,” said Mayor Plante. “It is serious for our administration. »