The Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) has resorted to legal action against the owner of a seniors’ apartment complex due to numerous health code violations that were left unaddressed. Abby Mackie, a public health inspector at TBDHU, mentioned that compliance orders were issued to SMS Property Trust Inc. following complaints regarding issues such as high temperatures, overflowing waste, and bed bug infestations at Vickers Manor.
Vickers Manor, previously known as McKellar Place, provides housing for seniors and offers assisted living units managed by Brain Injury Services of Northern Ontario. The property, situated at 325 Archibald St. S. in Thunder Bay, is currently listed for sale at $1, down from its earlier price of $18.9 million.
Aside from health code breaches, the owner is also confronted with numerous fire code violations and recent utility payment issues that almost led to service disruptions. SMS Property Trust Inc., led by Ongrasothy Masillamany of Markham, is facing 36 charges under the Health Protection and Promotion Act for inadequate building temperatures.
Mackie highlighted that summonses have been issued for the owner to appear in court regarding the compliance orders. Masillamany is scheduled for a court appearance via video conference on November 25, where potential fines may be imposed if found guilty.
In response to the situation, the City of Thunder Bay’s Municipal Emergency Control Group is closely monitoring Vickers Manor to prevent any risks to tenants. Thunder Bay—Superior North NDP MPP Lise Vaugeois has called on the province to investigate the property owner’s compliance with the Residential Tenancies Act through the Rental Housing Enforcement Unit.
Residents like Sharon Zoschke have expressed their attachment to Vickers Manor and the sense of community it provides, despite the challenges faced by some tenants. Zoschke emphasized the importance of keeping residents informed about any changes in services or potential property sales to prevent unnecessary displacements.
As various stakeholders address the issues at Vickers Manor, residents remain resilient, hoping for a positive resolution while emphasizing the significance of community support during challenging times.