Although about a year has passed since the decision was made to sell the property, Laurentian University has not yet put the John Street home that has been traditionally occupied by its presidents on the market.
The university’s board of governors made the decision to sell the house at 179 John St. at their Feb. 17, 2023 meeting.
Given the length of time that has passed without the house being listed, Sudbury.com reached out to Laurentian this week for an update.
The university said it expects some movement on this file in the near future.
“The process of the sale of this residence was more complex than the average home,” said the brief written statement from Laurentian.
“For example, there was a Request For Proposal issued in order to select a realtor. As is common with the sale of any residence, various repairs were necessary and a process to prepare the house for the sale.
“We don't have a specific date just yet but we do anticipate being able to list the residence in the coming weeks.”
A 2023 internal email from Laurentian said 179 John St. “has a long and storied history that dates back nearly 100 years, when its construction was commissioned by Ralph D. Parker, Laurentian University’s first board chair.”
Since purchasing this house in 1965, the university’s various leaders have hosted thousands of guests and hundreds of important community gatherings.
It welcomed world leaders, internationally renowned artists, and many celebrated alumni.
“However, notwithstanding its historical significance, our current and future needs for spaces that support academic excellence and the student experience, supersede holding on to this piece of our past,” the 2023 email from the president’s office said.
The email also said “the funds generated from the sale of the home and the annual cost savings on property maintenance will be used to address vital investments to the university’s sustainability.”
Heidi Ulrichsen is Sudbury.com’s assistant editor. She also covers education and the arts scene.
