The owner of two rooming homes in Thunder Bay says reports of a shutdown are highly exaggerated.
Robert Silvester runs lodging in the former Odd Fella's Temple on South May Street and another site on Park Avenue.
He admits he fell behind on repairs and failed to get his license renewed with the city.
“The city does a good job of maintaining and keeping the landlords on their toes and making sure that the buildings are safe and clean,” he said during an interview with CKPR Radio.
“(They city also makes sure) the tenants, although they’re in a situation that in many cases is not of their own making, are getting as much value as possible out of their residency.”
City by-law enforcement officials said the licenses expired last November, and they will be filing charges.
Those bylaw officials add that it is unlikely that anyone will be kicked out.
“We are simply proceeding with respect to not having a licence to operate a lodging house,” said Licensing and Enforcement Manager Ron Bourret.
Officials with the Thunder Bay Fire and Rescue said a shutdown is unlikely at this time.
The owner added that he's working closely with the city to meet necessary requirements.
(CKPR Radio)
