Three levels of governments celebrated the grand opening of 55 affordable rental units here on Monday morning.
The project was supported by more than $3.8-million in funding through the Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program.
Wellington-Halton Hills MP Michael Chong, called the building “a new place to call home for families and those with special needs.
He said the federal government started a stimulus package in the face of the biggest recession since the Great Depression and it is working because 310,000 jobs have been created. He said he hopes to see more federal and provincial cooperation on such projects.
“Congratulations on this beautiful building.”
Emcee and social services committee chairman Gord Tosh said he would be pleased to see more projects like this one, with all three levels of government involved.
Perth-Wellington MPP John Wilkinson, said, “The province of Ontario is committed to helping people who live on lower or fixed incomes stay in their home communities. These 55 new affordable accessible rental units are going to make a positive difference in the lives of these individuals and families. The construction is part of our Open Ontario plan to create jobs and economic opportunities in the County of Wellington.”
He said he was particularly pleased that it was not the federal or provincial governments that saw the need, but local people who initiated the project.
MPP Ted Arnott said even though he and Wilkinson are in opposing parties, “I recognize my obligation to work with the government when possible in the interest of our local communities.”
Arnott said the county “always sets the bar higher” then surpasses it.
Warden Joanne Ross-Zuj said “The County of Wellington is dedicated to helping all of our residents find a comfortable and safe place to call home. Ownership of Fergusson Place by the county ensures that long-term quality, affordable housing will be available to residents needing assistance. Through construction projects like these, the county continues to create jobs and stimulate our local economy."
Fergusson Place, located at 165 Gordon Street, created over 2,500 weeks of work in the community. The building is occupied by persons with special needs, singles and families.
The federal and provincial funding is complemented by $5.7-million in municipal capital funding.
Two residents, one already moved in and one planning to move in this week also told of what the new housing meant to them.
Michelle Mercer said she and her daughter needed a home and she watched the construction of the place, waiting for the day she would have an opportunity to obtain an apartment. She said she was worried because the family had a dog, and was delighted to learn that pets are welcome there.
She said when she saw the size of the apartments she “thought they were storage areas.”
Elizabeth Wilson said her husband has a handicap, and she is thrilled and thankful to have a new home for them.
Architect Lloyd Grinham said he is astounded at the high standards the county is setting for environmentally sound buildings, and noted it is higher than the private sector.
“We simply cannot build for the future with old models,” he said.
After the grand opening and ribbon cutting, tours were provided.
The building is completely smoke free, and barbecues are not permitted on balconies.
County housing operations manager Harry Blinkhorn said that was solely in the interests of safety.
