Lodges filling up in Cold Lake & Bonnyville after unusually high vacancies last year

Lakeland Lodge & Housing Foundation units are seeing much fewer vacancies recently.

Last year, between Bonnylodge and the Cold Lake Lodge, housing units were at 70 per capacity.

Now, Town of Bonnyville deputy mayor David Sharun says they’ve seen a big uptick, which will have a big payoff for taxpayers.

“We’ve seen a steady increase in the occupancy rate, with only three rooms available at any one given time. Some people move in, some people move out,” Sharun said on The Morning After. 

“Thanks to being near full capacity, we’ve not had to requisition our communities this year, which is great news, because these rooms are full.” 

That means there won’t be any additional money added to property tax payments under senior’s housing requisition.

Sharun says the vacancies in the past year have allowed those that may have traditionally been on the waiting list to income, be able to get in without a hitch.

“The lodges offer more than just a place to live. They provide a vibrant, supportive community. Residents enjoy excellent meals, recreation programs, crafts, music, movie nights, just to mention a few.

“It’s wonderful to see that the positive impact these activities have on the well being of our seniors. And I look forward to continuing to work in providing a safe and comfortable and engaging living space for those who call their lodges home.”