September 27 FAQ Update

What work has been completed at 99 McNaughton to date?

It has been one month since the fire at 99 McNaughton, and considerable work has been completed toward getting residents back into their units. Some of the specific repairs include:

The damaged roof has been replaced and weatherproofed.
Water and smoke damage in common areas is in the process of being remediated.
Tenant units that received water and smoke damage are being remediated. The effected tenants have been notified of this work.
Building mechanical and electrical components damaged by the fire are starting to be brought back into service.
Heat to the building is in the process of being restored.
A temporary hot water system is being installed to meet building code requirements for safe occupancy of residents.
The building’s fire monitoring system is being repaired.
All building department occupancy requirements continue to be addressed to ensure a safe occupancy of residents.

Where are people residing?

At this time all tenants from 99 McNaughton have either secured accommodations on their own or with support from the Municipality or have been offered alternate accommodations that includes Park St. Place in Dresden.

For any tenant whose temporary housing situation has changed, we request that they contact their case manager to discuss possible options.

When can I expect to move back home to 99 McNaughton?

The timeline remains in the range of at least several months. Tenants will be informed as soon as an estimated date is received.

Facilities staff are on site daily and are working with several contractors to repair 99 McNaughton quickly. At this time, it appears as though Section D will be the first to return followed by Section C. Contracted staff understand how important it is to get people back home as quickly as possible and are doing everything they can to achieve this. The priority is to complete the repairs needed so that Section D and then C can return at which time the priority will shift to A and then B.

Tenants in sections A and B should expect a longer wait as the work required to make these sections safe is extensive.

In order for people to return to section D and C, contractors and staff must complete the following:

Getting all life safety systems running and functioning properly.
Making sure all electrical systems are functioning properly, which includes testing every room.
Installation of temporary hot water tanks and ensuring delivery to every room in D and C.
Some minor moisture remediation in D.
Approval and sign off from the Electrical Safety Authority.
Approval and sign off by Chatham-Kent’s Chief Building Officer.

When can I return to my unit to get more of my possessions?

The fire at 99 McNaughton caused significant damage to the mechanical room, which has impacted the entire building. Chatham-Kent’s Chief Building Officer has issued orders against occupying the building, for example:

The building’s life-safety devices are currently not in operation and are in need of repair/replacement.
The electrical and water systems are currently being repaired as there was significant damage to the mechanical rooms.
There are health and safety risks due to the ongoing construction efforts, which includes remediation for moisture, mold, and asbestos.
99 McNaughton is an active construction site.

At this time, it is unsafe for the general public to enter the building and until this changes, no one (excluding trained contractors) will be permitted entry. Staff from the Municipality and/or Winmar will be in contact with all tenants the moment this changes, recognizing how important it is for displaced tenants to get more of their possessions.

We expect that some tenants will be able to access their units to remove some items before Section D is cleared for occupancy.

Park St. Place

The Municipality has entered into an agreement with the owners of 650 Park St. in Dresden Ontario to temporarily rent up to 50 rooms for displaced tenants of 99 McNaughton. Staff have reached out to all tenants who have not reported having a longer-term solution to offer this emergency housing option until such time that their home is ready for their return.

This partnership was struck when it became clear that there is not enough affordable housing in Chatham-Kent to meet this surge in need, nor are there enough private landlords interested in short-term leases.

This is a short-term option and will not interfere with any tenant’s return to 99 McNaughton.

What comes with Park St. Pace and what is the cost?

Tenants who chose this option will receive a private room, including a bed and a mini fridge, with bathroom. Park St. Place will provide 3 meals per day plus 1 snack.

Tenants will be required to pay 75% of their income to access this option (i.e. the room and meals). Tenants who believe they cannot afford this due to other extraordinary costs should speak with their case manager so that staff can review additional expenses.

The Municipality is subsidizing the remaining costs associated with this placement.

How were tenants selected for Park St Place?

Staff worked in a triaged manner and will be offering rooms in the following order:

Those currently staying in hotels.
Those living with friends and family who advised that they cannot stay long term.
Those staying in retirement homes but cannot afford to stay long term.
Those living with friends and family.

I am currently staying in a hotel, can I stay here past September 30^th?

The Municipality will no longer be paying for hotel accommodations. Displaced tenants may choose to continue to stay at hotels but will be required to cover the costs on their own or through their insurance.

I am living with a family member but need to contribute to the costs of my stay.

Please contact your case manager who will explore what options exist.

I am concerned about my rights as a tenant and have legal questions.

The Municipality encourages all tenants to seek independent legal advice at any time they feel there is a need. The Chatham-Kent Legal Clinic is an excellent resource and can provide information over the phone or through in-person appointments at no cost.

They can be reached at: 519-351-6771.

They are located at 455 Grand Ave E Unit# 9, Chatham, On