Media Release - Lanark County updates councilors on reconstruction of 75 Harvey St.

For immediate release
Aug. 3, 2023

Lanark County updates councillors on reconstruction of 75 Harvey St.

Lanark County councillors received an update at the community services committee meeting Wednesday regarding the status of reconstruction of the community housing units at 75 Harvey St. in Perth. The 27-unit, two-storey apartment building was significantly damaged in a fire on April 7, displacing 26 households.

Director of Social Services Emily Hollington said reconstruction of the building has been ongoing, but no one can move back in until it has been deemed to be safe. Hollington explained the county received new information from the insurance adjuster and engineer on Wednesday indicating there is significant structural damage.

“On the outside the building looks good, but there was major structural damage to the attic,” she said. “Some units on the second storey will have to be totally rebuilt and no one will be able to live on the second floor during that reconstruction because hallway access and fire exits will be restricted, creating a safety hazard.”

Hollington added when there is a major fire in a building, it has to be brought up to current Building Code standards when reconstructed. The building was built in 1973.

The county estimates it will take up to four weeks for the engineering report, after which staff can work with Perth building officials regarding the possibility of partial occupancy on the lower level of the building. They are also awaiting the fire marshal’s report.

Hollington said all displaced tenants are currently in alternative accommodations. Nine have been permanently rehoused elsewhere and everyone else has temporary housing, with the hope that 11 will be able to return to the lower level this fall if the engineering report is good. Completion of the upper level is estimated to be one year.

“Our caseworkers have been working with clients to develop a plan that goes beyond temporary hotel stays – we look at the next stage,” she said. “If their circumstances change, tenants can contact their caseworker to make a different plan that is tailored to the individual.”

She said the housing and homelessness team is working hard to provide information and responses to tenant calls. “We understand that tenants have experienced incredible hardship,” Hollington said, acknowledging the trauma and crisis from the fire situation that has affected so many.

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For more information/media interviews, contact:

Emily Hollington Director of Social Services

Lanark County

1-888-9-LANARK, ext. 2101