Dozens await seniors’ housing as Lloydminster backs Pioneer Lodge expansion

The presentation identifies low-income one- and two-person households as having the greatest housing need by number.

“There are 420 households on the Alberta side and 200 households on the Saskatchewan side totally 620 of the 955 households in core housing need,” the presentation stated.

Pioneer Lodge in Lloydminster. City council has committed an estimated $3.5 million toward replacing the facility’s oldest wing and expanding seniors’ housing. (Image Credit: Pioneer Lodge/Google Map)

Plans include independent-living suites, lodge accommodation with meals and housekeeping, upgraded kitchen and dining facilities, and shared recreation spaces. At least 31 per cent of units would be fully accessible. The presentation describes accommodation ranging from 60 per cent below market to market rates.

Municipal partners are being asked for approximately $5.04 million combined, with Lloydminster’s share representing about 70 per cent, based on equalized property assessments. Other partners include the County of Vermilion River and the villages of Kitscoty, Marwayne and Paradise Valley.

The group sought municipal commitments before Nov. 1 to support applications for further funding. Proposed financing also includes federal and provincial funding, borrowing and the group’s own cash.

Mayor Gerald Aalbers said the city had not determined how it would pay its share or exactly how much would be needed.

Administration outlined using reserves, passing the cost to taxpayers in one year or spreading it over several years. Borrowing would require another council decision. Payment would likely be needed in 2028.

The project is estimated to cost $38.6 million.

An architectural rendering of the proposed Pioneer Lodge expansion in Lloydminster. The redevelopment would replace 41 existing lodge units with 65 units. (Image Credit: Berry Architecture)

The municipal request is a one-time capital contribution, with no ongoing municipal operating payments proposed. The presentation says rents, resident fees and provincial Lodge Assistance Program funding would cover operations and the housing group’s debt payments.

The housing group’s chair, Coun. Dr. Michael Diachuk, expected the funding proposal to be reviewed in January or February 2027. Construction remains subject to funding approvals. The presentation targeted a 2027 start.

“It’s more likely that we’d be looking at 2028 as the construction phase beginning, although the demolition might occur in the latter part of 2027,” Diachuk added.

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Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com

by Kenneth Cheung

Dozens await seniors’ housing as Lloydminster backs Pioneer Lodge expansion

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