Creemore seniors’ housing plan proposed

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Those working to build a seniors’  apartment complex in Creemore made a pitch to Clearview Township council Monday.

Naomi Miller, of Peter Miller Enterprises, outlined plans to build 24 units, with up to 13 of those being affordable housing units, depending on how the final numbers work out.

She was joined by Peter Miller and Wendy Schellenberg, who has been working since 2015 to see seniors’ housing built in the village. They said there are other options, but they prefer to see the apartment building constructed on municipally owned land next to the library on Caroline Street East. They are asking council to declare the land surplus and sell it on the open market. Peter Miller Enterprises wishes to bid on the property.

They say the location is ideal because it is within walking distance of the library, which they expect would be popular with residents, downtown shops, restaurants, and the Creemore Farmers’ Market in the summer.

The proposed three-storey independent living facility, with one- and two-bedroom units ranging from 500 square feet to 750 square feet, would be fully accessible with handrails, wide hallways and doorways and an elevator large enough to accommodate a gurney.

As part of a funding request for seed money through the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Schellenberg conducted a needs and demand survey in the fall. All 43 respondents reported that they do not believe there is adequate accessible housing for seniors in Creemore and of the 25 respondents with an interest in moving within Creemore in the short-term, 19 will seek rental housing instead of owning. Thirty-seven respondents stated that affordability is a priority.

Seniors packed Station on the Green the previous fall, showing enthusiasm for local seniors housing. Schellenberg said although they are not allowed to start an official waiting list until the project is approved, they already have more than enough people who have indicated they are interested in renting.

Schellenberg, who used to work as the administrator for a larger seniors’ housing project in Mount Albert,  would serve as property manager should the project come to fruition.

She said the development would include a common room for social activities to help foster a community atmosphere and possibly a bus to take people to activities, for a small fee.

“Clearview should be proud to build something like this,” said Schellenberg. “Every community needs a place like this.”

The delegation also said the project would meet the needs of the township’s growing senior population, diversify the housing stock and help meet affordable housing targets. Preliminary pricing provided put the market rate at $990 for a one-bedroom and $1,120 for a two-bedroom. Affordable rates would be $858 for a one-bedroom and $966 for a two-bedroom.

Council agreed to direct staff to prepare a report on or before April 24, regarding the proposed 24-unit residence for seniors located at 27-29 Caroline Street East, including staff’s recommendation on declaring the land surplus.

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