The board of Lions Manor 55, the seniors’ housing co-operative under construction on Station Road in Thompson, says the facility should be ready for occupancy by October.
“We are very happy to be able to make this announcement,” said board chair MNick DiVirgilio in a press release.
Construction was put on hiatus last summer while the board secured a new $2.52 million mortgage, but resumed three months ago. A&B Builders have completed the drywall, flooring and cabinetry on the second floor, with installation of appliances and final detailing to come next. Similar work is now being completed on the main floor. The elevator and plumbing and electrical work for the main floor common area are also in progress.
“It took longer than we hoped, but we are very grateful to A&B Builders for their patience and willingness to wait this through with us,” said DiVirgilio.
Other funding for the project includes a Manitoba Housing contribution and a portion that must be fundraised by the Lions Manor 55 board. A loan has been obtained to bridge the fundraising portion until ongoing fundraising efforts are complete.
Twenty of the 30 one- and two-bedroom units have been sold.
Board member Penny Byer told the Thompson Chamber of Commerce last May that would-be occupants can reserve a suite by putting down $500. Under the co-operative housing model, residents have to purchase shares in the co-op – 60 shares at $1,000 each for a one-bedroom suite or 70 shares at $1,000 each for a two-bedroom.
In addition to the shares, people who join the co-op have to pay monthly fees of $763 for a one-bedroom unit and $939 for a two-bedroom unit, which cover costs such as heat and hydro, water, property taxes, insurance, snow removal, garbage removal and building and property maintenance.
If people decide to move out, their shares revert to the co-op and they get their $60,000 or $70,000 back.
Six of the suites are specially designed for people in wheelchairs and all are designed to suit the needs of tenants, who must be 55 or older, with lower light switches, higher electrical sockets, low- or zero-entry tubs. Each unit has individual heat and air conditioning controls and their own washer and dryer. The complex will also include an indoor common room with a fireplace and an outdoor common area, plans for which include eventual construction of a gazebo.
As shareholders in the co-op, tenants will have a say in how the complex is run, just like condo owners.
For more information on Lions Manor 55, call 204-677-1496 or email lionsmanor55@gmail.com.
