New Chapleau hospital needed by 1968, completed by 1976 and Premier Davis tours in 1975

MJM, Premier Davis, Chapleau 1975

Lady Minto Hospital administrator Leo Walzak told the annual meeting of the hospital auxiliary at its annual meeting in 1968 that a new hospital was needed in Chapleau.

Government grants and $76,000 in a building fund which was gaining interest would be available for the project, Margaret Costello reported.

"Medical science is progressing and to meet new medical requirements and those necessary  for accreditation, a new hospital should be built," Mr. Walzak said.

For accreditation, the qualifications were a safe building, proper equipment, qualified staff and supervision. A new hospital would also prove attractive to doctors.

Mr. Walzak explained that it was not the responsibility of the hospital board to provide doctors for the hospital but it was making every effort to do so along with the council and other community groups.

The planning was underway for the new Chapleau General Hospital and by 1976, it opened on Broomhead Road. Harry Pellow of Chapleau became the architect for the project and also designed the Chapleau Civic Centre, Chapleau Recreation Centre, Cedar Grove Lodge for Senior Citizens and the new golf club house. 

In 1975, Premier Bill Davis made a special visit to Chapleau to visit the hospital construction site on a tour guided by township public works superintendent William Memegos. Mr. Davis also discussed the other projects with township officials.

B. Davis, MJM, Clare Hoy, W. Memegos, unknown

The Lady Minto Hospital was opened in 1914 and at the time was the only hospital between Sudbury and Fort William, now Thunder Bay. in 1950 when Charles W. Collins was chair of the hospital board and D.O. Payette, secretary, plans were made for renovations at the hospital and by 1955, sun parlours on the east and west ends had been built, a new kitchen was in place as well as an elevator. A nurses' residence had also been built. Miss Sophie Herner had provided the funding for a staff dining room.

Mr. Walzak assured the auxiliary members of his co-operation "nothing else but", giving the members a renewed sense of purpose. He also noted that having the auxiliary president as a member of the hospital board was a good move. "Without knowing what is going on makes working together difficult" adding that now the president can keep the members aware of what the board is thinking  and gear activities accordingly thus achieving a harmonious relationship.

He also pointed out that the role of the auxiliary had changed over the years. At one time it provided linens, food and other necessities as well as undertaking fund raising to cover any hospital deficits, Now that had been undertaken  by the Ontario Hospital Services Commission.

At times auxiliary members should also come in contact with patients as part of their role.

Mr. Walzak also noted that in 1967 the hospital had looked after 1200 patients and 111 newborns. It had served 56000 meals. Seventy percent of the budget went to salaries which totalled $257,000 in 1967.

My thanks to Doug Greig. My email is mj.morris@live.ca.