Senior housing proposed for former hotel property in Clifford

A proposal to allow the construction of a seniors housing complex on a long-vacant lot on Elora Street in Clifford was referred by Minto council to the town’s economic development committee.

Councillor Ron Elliott advised council at its Oct. 9 meeting that a developer is interested in building a multi-unit seniors residential facility on the vacant lot where the Mansion Tavern stood before it burned down in 1993. While the property is zoned commercial, Elliott suggested council should consider the idea.

“It’s up to you if you want to do it. However, there are implications to you if you take your main street and put residential where you’re supposed to have commercial,” said CAO Bill White.

Mayor George Bridge commented that while senior housing is a priority in the community, the lot is a “perfect” location for a commercial enterprise.

“That’s true, but I don’t know too many people who want to build a beautiful hotel in downtown Clifford,” responded Elliott.

“I think it should go through economic development (committee),” said Bridge.

“I agree,” said Elliott.