The apartment blocks were built in 1974 and provides affordable housing to post-secondary students. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

infrastructure

Apartment buildings in La Ronge require $2 million in ‘urgent’ revitalization work

Aug 18, 2021 | 5:21 PM

Two major apartment blocks along Boardman St. in La Ronge need urgent mechanical and electrical work worth nearly $2 million.

That’s according to a letter sent from NORTEP Council Inc. to the Town of La Ronge, which included a request for town council to provide a letter of support for potential infrastructure funding. The request was reviewed at a regular council meeting Tuesday and approved.

Built in 1974 with significant renovations between 2005 and 2015, the letter states the pair of 24-unit apartment blocks require upgrades to maintain safety and extend the longevity for occupancy. The work would involve replacing all electrical wiring, existing plumbing, and repairs to architectural finishes.

“In 1974, the building codes allowed for aluminum electrical wiring, as well as cast iron pipes for water and sewer, and those have to be replaced,” said NORTEP chairperson Joe Daignault in an interview with larongeNOW. “We haven’t had any incidents of any electrical problems, it’s just that we always have to make sure.”

The letter of support from La Ronge is a requirement to apply for funding through the Saskatchewan Co-Investment Program in association with the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The funding opportunity aligns with the proposed project as it is intended for revitalization projects, specifically for affordable housing facilities.

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The two apartment buildings include one, two, and three-bedroom units and are for student and family accommodations for individuals attending post-secondary institutions in the tri-communities. The funding won’t cover the entire amount for the project as NORTEP will be required to pay for a certain percentage.

“We are meeting on Aug. 21 and we will make a decision,” Daignault said. “Based on our audit, we will be pursuing the funding. We have to be in the black in order for us to be eligible for the funding.”

NORTEP Council Inc. consists of Creighton, Île-à-la-Crosse, and Northern Lights School Divisions, as well as Meadow Lake Tribal Council and Prince Albert Tribal Council. In total, NORTEP manages 64 low-income units.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno