Housing projects in the works for Glenboro

New housing developments are taking shape in Glenboro, bringing fresh opportunities for families, retirees, and newcomers alike. Local resident Lorelie Mitchell is spearheading two of the projects, which aim to provide affordable housing options and an assisted living complex…efforts she hopes will help the town grow while supporting local services like the hospital and library.

Recently, Mitchell purchased the block on the northwest side of Railway Avenue from Gord and Nancy Koop. The property includes the former Glenboro Hotel, the building that once housed the Glenboro Gazette, and the KDS Detailing shop.

Mitchell hopes to redevelop the site into an affordable housing project, creating additional housing opportunities within the community. She emphasized the use of the term “affordable” rather than “low income,” noting the homes would be ideal for families just starting out, empty nesters looking to downsize, single residents, or couples.

Mitchell reported that both ventures are in the very early planning stages and that it is not yet clear whether the housing development will consist of duplexes or individual homes.

“We have to wait for the snow to melt to see exactly how much land we are dealing with for zoning, and a whole series of requirements that we will need to know before we can even get started on either venture.”

As for the assisted living project which she hopes comes to fruition by May of 2027, she hopes to see 32 units, a commercial kitchen, dining room, on one floor. The majority of the units would be one bedroom but she would like offer a couple two bedroom options for those who would like a little more space.

“Our town has lost so much throughout the years; the hydro office, Westoba Credit Union, the Co-operators Farm Business office, to name a few of the bigger ones. I thought and thought about what we can do to add to the town,” she said.

That thinking is also why she has no plans to include a library or games room within the assisted living complex. “We already have a great library, and the Raystone Centre offers activities as well as handi-transit to get residents there. Let’s utilize what we already have.”

Lorelie and Steve Bjornson, who owns the land slated for the assisted living complex, have already met with the RM council. She has been looking at a variety of blueprints to get ideas of layouts and costs for both projects. “We are hoping to presell the units to keep the money flowing to pay contractors,” she explained while adding that the assisted living units would be sold with a monthly fee to cover the amenities.

Many discussions and decisions will need to take place before any sod is turned. However, the former Gazette building and garage are expected to be torn down in early May, with the dismantling of the “Blue Bar” planned for early September. Construction for the assisted living complex, Mitchell’s top priority, is tentatively expected to begin in the spring of 2027.

Mitchell has also brought idea of closing the “back lane” to allow for larger lots for the affordable housing project to the council and local council member Dale Fisher commented that that is something council would be willing to work with.

Fisher stated that the addition of an assisted living complex and additional housing would be a great asset to the town, helping to secure the future of the hospital while also creating additional employment opportunities in the community.

Council has also taken steps to address the housing shortage by purchasing 21.3 acres along the south side of Railway Avenue from Dennis Friesen for future commercial development and 55-plus housing.

“The land has already been subdivided, and we will be putting out a tender shortly for the installation of a sewer line,” he said. “We are presently working with three developers, and we have nine people and counting who have expressed interest in the housing units.”

With demolition and construction plans already in motion, these projects signal a new chapter for Glenboro. By creating additional housing, supporting local services, and generating employment opportunities, Mitchell and town council are helping ensure the community continues to grow and thrive for years to come.

PHOTO CAPTION: The former “Blue Bar” in Glenboro has been sold along with two other adjoining properties that will all be demolished this summer to make room for some affordable housing units.