The organization dedicated to helping those with intellectual disabilities wants to expand.
Representing Community Living, board president Gina Atkinson and Bob Bennett, a temporary consultant for the group, made a delegation to council to explain the organization’s future plans in terms of building a housing development.
The proposal includes the construction of a 6,000-square-foot building, with two floors (for a total of 12,000 square feet), complete with 20 bachelor residential units, program and office space.
The ideal location for such a development would be somewhere within walking distance to the downtown core.
While the organization is looking at a few properties, the former Victoria Street school is the most suitable location for the organization’s proposal, said Bennett.
“We would like to enter into discussions with council about sharing the school property,” said Bennett.
Fearrey said council was considering purchasing the historic school, however, they were still seeking legal advice on the matter.
“We’re looking at the covenants in the deed, which state the property must be used for educational purposes,” said Fearrey.
The reeve believed the organization’s plans could fit into that definition.
Fearrey asked whether the group would be taking over the current building on the property for their proposal.
“We fear it would cost too much to heat that old building,” said Bennett.
“That’s our fear too,” said Fearrey.
To formalize their plans and prepare cost estimates, Community Living representatives have met with the Haliburton County Development Corporation and banks.
Bennett said the organization was fairly certain they wouldn’t be requiring provincial funding.
The type of building they are considering is one engineered and built by Norsteel, a company based out of Markham.
Councillor Andrea Roberts said she was supportive of the organization’s plans and thought it would be a great fit for Haliburton.
“We will keep the organization in the loop on what we’re doing,” said Fearrey.