Parkland Manor residents expressed some curiosity, but did not appear unduly concerned about a proposed new seniors’ facility when they met with Rimoka Housing Authority board members and officials at a meeting, Monday.
Board chairman Paul McLauchlin, mayor Rick Pankiw and councillor Mathew Jaycox along with Rimoka director of client services and acting CAO Sharon Mikla joined residents at the manor to answer questions and listen to concerns. Wendy Filewich, the acting manager of Parkland Manor was also in attendance.
While residents didn’t appear to have many concerns about a proposed new senior’s facility, some questions were raised.
“How many of us want a new facility?” questioned resident Ruth Casey.
The mayor was quick to point out that the present facility will stay, but the proposed new lodge was to have 14 additional suites, and the extra rooms are needed to accommodate seniors now and in the future.
He said the average current age in Rimbey is 45.7 years, about 11 years older than the provincial average.
“There is a need,” added McLauchlin. “An immediate need.”
However, the board chairman stressed residents will have input into any future changes.
“We’re talking about your home here and we want to ensure this (facility) stays an important part of our community.”
McLauchlin said keeping in closer contact with Parkland Manor’s residents was the board’s new year’s resolution.
“We want to connect with you and open the channel of communications in the New Year,” he said.
“Where is the new building going to be built?” a resident asked.
McLauchlin said land negotiations are ongoing, but presently the area being looked at is west of the community centre.
Pankiw was quick to point out that if the land deal went ahead, the new facility would be closer to the hospital and only about 100 metres further from the Co-op than the manor.
Anne Ingram is a long-time resident of Parkland Manor and seems happy to be there.
“I have been here 13 years and it’s home,” she said. “I probably won’t see the other one (completed).”