Report says Sudbury, Ont.'s Pioneer Manor needs between $32 and $39 M in upgrades

The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care wants Sudbury to spend up to $22 million on upgrades to Pioneer Manor by 2024, but not everyone think the city should go ahead with the plan.

According to a ministry report, the city-owned long-term care facility doesn't meet provincial standards.

If there's no law that says we even have to own a home,how can [the ministry] come in and force us to spend this money on these beds?- Councillor Fern Cormier

Sudbury councillor Deb McIntosh thinks the city has to decide whether it wants to even be involved in the operation of the facility.

"I'm not saying I'm pro or against either way," McIntosh said.

"But people would like us to have the conversation as to whether we are not mandated to own and operate a long-term care facility."

The standards take into account a room's physical infrastructure, like width of entry doors and washrooms, and wheelchair accessibility radius. Dining room and lounge space available for residents and families are also considerations.

Councillor Fern Cormier had questions about the ministry's request during Tuesday's council meeting.

"If there's no law that says we even have to own a home," Cormier said, "ow can [the ministry] come in and force us to spend this money on these beds?

The ministry would help pay for the project by chipping in $17 million.

Council has asked for a report to look at the city's role in the business of long-term care homes, so it can determine whether it wants to continue operating the facility.