Fact not fiction

To the editor;

In response to a letter to the editor submitted by executive director of the Downtown Dartmouth Business Commission (The real issues for downtown Dartmouth are ..., The weekly News, Jan. 17).

Olive is correct in saying the Greenvale School development is a prime example of what could be and should be in Downtown Dartmouth.

Dexel Developments could not agree more. On September 9, 2003, the Halifax Regional Council authorized the mayor and the municipal clerk to enter into an agreement of purchase and sale for the former Greenvale School with Greenvale Realty Partners (Dexel).

After a long drawn out four-year process the application for Dexel Developments to enter into a development agreement was approved.

An executed copy of the development agreement was in fact signed by all parties and finalized on October 10, 2007.

Mr. Olive was also correct in saying that Dexel does have other projects ongoing.

As most development companies and the public know, you are only as good as your latest development.

Since there was no fixed schedule with regards to the development agreement process, Dexel cannot simply drop projects under construction due to the approval of the development agreement.

Dexel Developments, over the past eight years, has established a reputation for creating some of this city's landmark buildings.

Dexel plans to breathe new life into this charming historical fixture, preserving the original grace of the property with its proud columns and heritage trees, while subtly introducing a modern feel to the interior.

All HRM residents and future residents may rest assured that this project will be commencing in 2008.

The Greenvale School will be a landmark property again and available to for all to enjoy and cherish as a living part of Dartmouth's past, present and very bright future.