The Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) has resorted to legal action against the owner of a seniors’ apartment building due to numerous health code violations that have gone unaddressed.
Abby Mackie, a public health inspector at TBDHU, mentioned that compliance orders were issued to SMS Property Trust Inc. on two occasions after complaints regarding issues such as excessive heat, overflowing garbage, and bedbugs at Vickers Manor.
Vickers Manor, previously known as McKellar Place, provides independent living units for seniors, along with assisted living units managed by Brain Injury Services of Northern Ontario. The property, located at 325 Archibald St. S. in Thunder Bay, is currently listed for sale at $1 after being initially priced at $18.9 million.
Apart from health code violations, the owner is also facing multiple fire code violations. Earlier this year, unpaid bills nearly led to the discontinuation of utilities, prompting volunteers to start a crowdfunding campaign to provide meals for the residents.
SMS Property Trust Inc., owned by Ongrasothy Masillamany from Markham, is facing 36 offences under the Health Protection and Promotion Act related to excessive heat within the building.
Mackie stated that summonses have been issued for the owner to appear in court concerning the compliance orders. Masillamany is scheduled to appear in the Provincial Offences Court via video conference on Nov. 25, where a ruling and potential fines may be imposed if found guilty.
Despite multiple attempts to contact Vickers Manor’s management, no response has been received. Mackie noted that resorting to legal action is uncommon for the health unit but necessary in this case due to the lack of cooperation from the current ownership.
Meanwhile, NDP MPP Lise Vaugeois has called on the province to investigate the situation at Vickers Manor, emphasizing the need for proper enforcement of regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents.
One resident, Sharon Zoschke, expressed her attachment to Vickers Manor despite challenges, highlighting the importance of community support and faith in difficult times.
The City of Thunder Bay and local partners are actively monitoring the situation to prevent any service disruptions that could jeopardize the residents’ safety. Efforts are being made to connect residents with available services and explore alternative housing options within the city.