Statement on Castledowns Pointe Condo Investigation
In September 2023, the Castledowns Pointe condo residents in Ward Anirniq were issued an evacuation order due to structural concerns with the condo building. Since then, I’ve spoken with a number of the building residents about the challenges and concerns that they’ve been facing as well as understanding the answers they are seeking. Additionally, I committed publicly to push for accountability.
I was glad to work with City Administration and confirmed that a full Safety Codes investigation into the cause and circumstances that led to the evacuation order is underway. This investigation helps to ensure public safety and will make recommendations related to ongoing safety. It will also outline the associated roles and responsibilities as identified in the Safety Codes Act, design and site reviews throughout construction, and the requirements for the city (as the Authority Having Jurisdiction) to issue permits and inspect elements of the building though construction.
Additionally, at the October 24, 2023 City Council meeting I made the following motion (which passed unanimously):
That Administration provide a memo on the outcome of the investigation conducted under authority of the Safety Codes Act, once reporting and reviews are complete to the satisfaction of the Safety Codes Council and Administrator.
That an advocacy strategy to other orders of government to strengthen construction accountability be included in a future Intergovermental Update to City Council.
Once this investigation is complete, a report will be provided to City Council, along with the Safety Codes Council Manager of Accreditations, the Provincial Building Administrator, and the Minister of Municipal Affairs.
I want to thank the residents of Castledowns Pointe who reached out to me. I’m looking forward to seeing the outcomes of this investigation so we can make sure that this situation does not re-occur.
