Summary#
On January 26, 2026, Montréal city council approved a 24-month lease with Sophie Gailliot for a 90-square-foot room at 251, avenue des Pins Ouest, at the Cité des Hospitalières. The stated goal is to support temporary activities at the heritage site that fit the principles for its protection and use.
- The room is leased for a research-project office and leather marquetry classes, starting February 1, 2026.
- The rent is $4,012.20, excluding sales taxes. Either the City or the tenant may end the lease early with 30 days’ notice.
- The City provides energy and handles maintenance and repairs. The tenant pays property taxes and cleaning costs.
What it means for you#
- Sophie Gailliot: May use the room for the stated activities during the lease, subject to its terms. Either party can end the lease with 30 days’ notice.
- City of Montréal: Receives rent and remains responsible for energy, maintenance and repairs.
- Residents and visitors: The decision does not create a public service or a right to use the room.
Money#
The City expects rental income of $4,012.20, plus applicable sales taxes, over 24 months.
- The decision summary gives a total including taxes of $4,613.23.
- The City records the rent as operating revenue for its real-estate strategy service. No estimate of the City’s energy, maintenance or repair costs is provided.
What is unclear#
- The full lease terms are not included in the supplied material.
- The City’s expected costs for energy, maintenance and repairs are not stated.
Case for#
- City staff say the lease supports temporary activities that align with the principles for protecting and making use of the Cité des Hospitalières.
- Staff say the rent is within a range assessed by the City’s real-estate evaluation division.
Case against#
- The City’s rental income may be reduced by its energy, maintenance and repair costs; the materials do not estimate those costs.
- The 30-day termination clause means the lease can end before the full 24 months.