The Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) has resorted to legal action against the owner of a seniors’ apartment complex, citing numerous health code infractions left unaddressed. Abby Mackie, a public health inspector at TBDHU, mentioned that compliance orders were issued to SMS Property Trust Inc. on two occasions following complaints regarding 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. Situated at 325 Archibald St. S. in Thunder Bay, the property is currently listed for sale at $1 after previously being listed for $18.9 million earlier this year.
In addition to health code violations, the owner is also confronted with numerous fire code violations. Recent issues include unpaid bills that nearly led to utility cutoffs, prompting volunteers to initiate a crowdfunding campaign to ensure residents have access to food after hot meals ceased being served.
SMS Property Trust Inc., owned by Ongrasothy Masillamany of Markham, is facing 36 charges under the Health Protection and Promotion Act related to excessive heat within the building. Mackie mentioned that summonses have been issued for the owner to appear in court regarding the compliance orders.
A ruling and potential fines will be determined by a justice of the peace if Masillamany is found guilty, with a scheduled court appearance via video conference set for Nov. 25. Despite multiple attempts to contact Vickers Manor’s management, no response was received, with Mackie highlighting the unusual step of resorting to legal action due to unresponsiveness from the current ownership.
The City of Thunder Bay’s Municipal Emergency Control Group continues to monitor the situation at Vickers Manor to prevent any service disruptions that could jeopardize tenant safety. Thunder Bay—Superior North NDP MPP Lise Vaugeois has called on the province to investigate the owner’s compliance with the Residential Tenancies Act and ensure residents are not displaced without proper planning for suitable housing alternatives.
Sharon Zoschke, a resident at Vickers Manor, expressed her attachment to the community despite challenges, emphasizing the importance of providing transparent information to tenants regarding potential changes and the building’s sale. Maintaining optimism, Zoschke stressed the significance of community support and faith during difficult times.
