The Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) has initiated legal action against the owner of a seniors’ apartment complex due to numerous health code breaches. Abby Mackie, a public health inspector at TBDHU, highlighted that the health unit had issued directives to SMS Property Trust Inc. following complaints about issues such as extreme heat, overflowing trash, 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’s south side, the property is currently listed for sale at $1 after being initially listed for $18.9 million.
Aside from health code violations, the owner is also facing multiple fire code violations. Recent challenges include potential utility shutdowns due to unpaid bills and a crowdfunding campaign to provide meals after hot meals ceased being served to residents.
SMS Property Trust Inc., under the ownership of Ongrasothy Masillamany from Markham, is confronting 36 charges under the Health Protection and Promotion Act concerning excessive heat within the building. Mackie confirmed that summonses have been issued for court appearances related to the health violations.
In response to the situation, City of Thunder Bay officials are closely monitoring the circumstances at Vickers Manor to ensure tenant safety. NDP MPP Lise Vaugeois has urged the province to investigate the property owner’s compliance with the Residential Tenancies Act and ensure residents are not displaced without proper housing solutions.
Despite challenges, residents like Sharon Zoschke, who has lived at Vickers Manor for 16 months, express strong attachment to the community within the building. Zoschke emphasizes the importance of keeping tenants informed about changes and hopes for a positive resolution to the current situation.