Bryn Mawr formally designated heritage building by St. John's council

St. John's City Council formalized heritage designation for Bryn Mawr at Monday's meeting, despite opposition from the property owner — and Coun. Art Puddister said the city has forced heritage status on an unwilling owner twice before.

"We designated the Belvedere orphanage as a heritage building contrary to the wishes of the Mercy Nuns. We also designated a building on Forest Road, that was owned by the provincial government," said Puddister.

The property at 154 New Cove Road is also known as Baird Cottage, and was built by businessman James Baird in 1907.

Mildred Steinhauer, 81, is the current owner, though she has already moved out of the home, and her son Fred Steinhauer has said in a statement and letter to city councillors that his mother cannot afford to maintain what he calls a "deteriorating" property.

Owner says city should pay

Fred Steinhauer has demanded the city grant a demolition permit as requested to carry through with the sale and development of the property.

In his May 19 letter, Steinhauer said his mother and the purchaser, "are willing to forego the transaction if the city is willing to purchase 154 New Cove Road for $4 million."

Puddister said the city has "no intention of purchasing the property."

Barring that payment, Steinhauer said the city must grant the demolition permit or else his mother, "will have no choice but to bring legal action against the city."

Now, the city has until June 18 to publish or gazette the decision to designate Bryn Mawr a heritage building.

"There is a time frame to be followed and if we don't actually have that gazetted by June 18, then legally we are obligated to issue a demolition permit," Puddister said Monday.

"When property owners make an application to demolish a home council has 90 days to either say yes or no. And in this situation we have said no and we've given the reasons why."

Puddister said some members of council are hoping to discuss options with the property owner, developer, and city staff.

"Basically we are only interested in the outside. What takes place inside, could be offices, condominiums, apartments, but as long as the exterior be saved we are prepared to work with the developer and the property owners."