Greater Napanee considers cashing in on dozens of vacant properties in major land sell-off

The list covered properties ranging from prime developable land to small parcels that could only be sold to neighbouring owners.

The Town of Greater Napanee is taking a close look at its land holdings, with dozens of vacant municipal properties potentially going up for sale. On Thursday, June 26, 2025, Council held a special three-hour meeting to review a newly updated list of vacant land compiled by Michael Nobes, the Town’s General Manager of Growth and Infrastructure.

Mayor Terry Richardson praised Nobes for what he called a “herculean task” in reviewing the land registry, while Chief Administrative Officer Matthew Grant described municipal land as one of Council’s most powerful tools for shaping community growth and generating revenue.

The list covered properties ranging from prime developable land to small parcels that could only be sold to neighbouring owners. Council discussed each piece of land in detail, including a site at Palace Road and County Road 2 that could be affected by a planned traffic circle, and 12 Market Square, where a hydro connection issue might need to be fixed before a sale.

Nobes explained the review included verifying land ownership, mapping properties with a GIS system, and cross-checking historical records. He divided the properties into Class One, which can be developed and sold on their own, and Class Two, which would have to be merged with neighbouring land.

The Town has launched a public GIS web map of the land list until late July, and issued a request for proposals to hire a real estate agent to handle any sales.

If Council approves selling any properties, the next steps would include public notices, appraisals, and community feedback.

A final decision on how to proceed is expected at Council’s meeting on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.