A new seniors lodge will be a reality soon, says Fort Mayor Gale Katchur.

The need for senior housing has been researched and confirmed, and Fort City Council has endorsed the Fort Foundation study calling for a new lodge, Katchur says.

The Fort Foundation has also hired consultant Ken Fernly to develop architectural designs, land needs and prepare grant applications for the project, she adds.

The project is also getting strong support from the provincial government. The Assistant Deputy Minister of Seniors Affordable Housing, Mike Leathwood is participating with Fort Saskatchewan’s Replacement Lodge Committee. of Fort Saskatchewan.

Alberta government officials are also happy to see Fort Saskatchewan joining forces with Strathcona County to form a new sub region for affordable housing, including senior housing. Strathcona officials also agree that the sub region’s top housing priority is a new seniors lodge in Fort Saskatchewan.

Katchur supports putting the new lodge on the old hospital site, and wants to see Council move quickly on  whatever choice the Replacement Lodge Committee makes.

Allocating land to the project is the next big step for Fort Saskatchewan, which will then leave everything ready for final provincial government funding, Katchur says.

“I am hopeful that this Council will be the Council that ensures our senior citizens housing needs are being met.”