Local eatery plans move to former fire hall

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This article was published 16/09/2014 (4258 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A local restaurant has signed a letter of intent with Samson Engineering to lease the main floor of the historic former fire hall in downtown Brandon.

Phil Dorn, senior engineer and president of Samson Engineering, made a presentation to city council on Monday night.

“They’re still working out their menu and what’s going to happen there,” he said. “The concept is an atmosphere that will pay homage to the historic building. It will be warm and inviting.”

Dorn didn’t name the restaurant, but said the menu will “celebrate local culture” and will not be a chain establishment.

“It’s very local. They like organic food and that kind of thing,” he said.

Samson Engineering’s proposal for the building was accepted by city council back in April. They will be the new owners of the building, at a cost of $100,000.

The company expects to take possession by January 2015 or earlier, as the restaurant is slated to open May 1, 2015.

“It’s a quick timeline, but I think we can do it,” Dorn said.

Dorn requested the city allow the historic fire hall bell to be put on display at the old fire hall.

Another request was for the city to develop a sidewalk in front of the building, as currently it is a ramp.

Dorn intends to build a patio at the front of the property at 637 Princess Ave.

Samson Engineering is also requesting no caveat on the title when it changes hands.

The 103-year-old building was known as Central Fire Station No. 1.

It stands on the site of its 1882-93 predecessor.

The designated heritage building been largely out of use since Brandon Fire and Emergency Services moved into a new facility on 19th Street North in 2010.

Since then, the old fire hall has been used for some emergency training purposes.

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