July 31, 2025 | (L-R) Board representatives Peggy Brekveld, Bruce Vanderwees, Devon Myers & James Collie (Chair); MPP Robert Flack, Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing; local contractor Leif Dyson; Board representative Harold Heerema (Vice).
Over the past few months, the fulfillment of plans, ongoing financial support, and growing community interest have added layers of success to the development of Pennock Village. In late July, a new layer of accomplishment was added from a provincial level.
James Collie, Chair of the Project, alongside several Board members and local contractor, Leif Dyson, welcomed a visit from the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing MPP Robert Flack, for an introductory on-site tour. Conversation centred around the importance of seniors’ housing, allowing for rural projects which support the opportunity for Residents to “age in place” within a rural setting. It was also a unique opportunity to share the story of Pennock Village including details on its current state of construction, its future prospects, and the Life Lease concept. Discussions were generated, questions addressed and opportunities initiated – ways in which the province could assist in the future of Pennock Village.
“It was a pleasure to host Minister Flack at Pennock Village. We appreciated his time and we hope that he leaves us with a spirited interest in projects like ours,” commented Devon Myers, Board representative.
Much of Pennock Village’s vision has been centered around the future of the prospective residents it will serve. But it will also serve as a creative solution to the current housing crisis within the greater region of Northwestern Ontario. Developments like Pennock Village benefit municipalities, regional and provincial levels. They add additional choices for current rural seniors ready to downsize, new infrastructure investment opportunities, and alternative senior housing including through the Assisted Living model.
While preparation of roadways continues, utilities are installed on-site, and the construction of units progresses, it has become apparent that the objectives of Pennock Village continue to gain favourable momentum within the Municipality of Oliver Paipoonge, the greater surrounding communities of Thunder Bay, and now, through additional provincial interest.
Thank you to Minister Flack, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, for his on-site visit at Pennock Village.