The Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) is resorting to legal action against the owner of a seniors’ apartment building due to numerous health code violations that have been left unaddressed. Abby Mackie, a public health inspector at TBDHU, mentioned that compliance orders were issued to SMS Property Trust Inc. on two occasions in July following complaints regarding issues such as excessive heat, overflowing garbage, and bed bugs at Vickers Manor.
Vickers Manor, previously known as McKellar Place, provides independent living options for seniors and includes assisted living units managed by Brain Injury Services of Northern Ontario. Situated at 325 Archibald St. S. in Thunder Bay, the property is currently listed for sale at $1 after being initially listed for $18.9 million earlier this year. Apart from health code violations, the owner is also confronting numerous fire code violations.
SMS Property Trust Inc., led by Ongrasothy Masillamany from Markham, is facing 36 offenses under the Health Protection and Promotion Act related to the excessive heat within the building. A summons has been issued for the owner to appear in court regarding the orders issued in July, and another summons is expected to follow soon. Masillamany is set to appear in the Provincial Offences Court via video conference on November 25 for a ruling and potential fines if found guilty.
In response to the situation at Vickers Manor, the Municipal Emergency Control Group of the City of Thunder Bay is actively monitoring to prevent service disruptions that could jeopardize the tenants’ safety. The group is collaborating with community partners to assist residents in accessing available services and exploring alternative housing options within the city.
Thunder Bay—Superior North NDP MPP, Lise Vaugeois, has demanded action from the province to investigate the owner’s compliance with the Residential Tenancies Act. She advocates for the Rental Housing Enforcement Unit to intervene and ensure the owner fulfills their obligations to provide a safe living environment for tenants.
Sharon Zoschke, a resident at Vickers Manor, expressed her attachment to the building and the community, despite challenges like extreme temperatures and uncertainties about the building’s future. While some tenants have left due to concerns over potential evictions, Zoschke remains hopeful for a positive resolution and emphasizes the importance of keeping residents informed and respected during this time of uncertainty.