Mass eviction of over 70 businesses could devastate Ontario town

Dozens of small businesses in Whitby are facing eviction due to a legal dispute between a commercial property owner and a management company, leaving local leaders scrambling to minimize the damage ahead of a May 27 deadline.

Tenants at the Durham Corporate Centre, located at 105 Consumers Drive, were shocked on May 21 when they were given just seven days to vacate the premises. Many of the business owners learned at that time that their leases were not with the property owner, but with a separate management company now locked in a legal battle.

"A dispute between a management company and the landlord of a commercial building is having a ripple effect that feels like a tidal wave," said Regional Councillor Chris Leahy. "Over 70 Whitby businesses are caught in the middle of a legal dispute between a landlord and the property manager. Whitby could lose 70 businesses in one stroke of the pen if they all move to other municipalities."

Early last week, the landlord reportedly posted a Notice of Termination and locked the doors of its office spaces due to a "rent dispute."

Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy acknowledged the town's limited authority in the legal matter but voiced strong concern for the dozens of small businesses affected. "While the Town of Whitby cannot intervene in this legal matter, we are doing everything possible to support the affected businesses," she said, adding that she will be meeting with business owners to hear directly about their needs.

Roy said the town is also working closely with the Whitby Chamber of Commerce, 1855 Technology Accelerator, and commercial property owners to help find potential relocation options for displaced businesses.

Councillor Leahy warned that without intervention, the consequences could extend far beyond the affected businesses themselves.

"Because these small businesses are not at the table to negotiate they are unfortunately on the menu, and their dreams could be consumed by this dispute and eviction," Leahy said.

"The mass eviction of 70 businesses will cause economic harm to the whole town. We should do everything we can to mitigate the damage this dispute will have."

The councillor is calling on the Town of Whitby to intervene and mediate a solution between the landlord and the individual tenants. Roy says she will continue to "monitor the situation closely" and offer support "within the Town's ability to help these local businesses stay on their feet."

Those with available office space are encouraged to email the mayor or contact the Town’s Economic Development team.