Bed bugs are no more at Welton Towers.
The Second Avenue low-income seniors' facility has been plagued by the insidious insects for several years.
"Since employing Avon Exterminators, the problem has been virtually eliminated. With continued diligence by the in-house manager, the housekeeper, the residents and the board [Mission and District Senior Citizens Housing Association], any of these little pests that may reappear will be quickly eliminated," read a press release.
At its peak, thousands of dollars were being spent monthly on exterminations, said building manager John Clinging, who has been living at Welton Towers since February 2011.
This good news is part of a grander effort by the board that has seen several large-scale improvements made recently.
All of the large windows have recently been replaced with energy efficient, tinted windows to improve the comfort of tenants, and the entire building has been equipped with modern, energy-efficient lighting, both in the suites and in the common areas.
Additionally, the roof has been redone, the hot water system replaced and both elevators upgraded and retrofitted. Many of the suites have had old carpeting removed and new linoleum installed. In addition, some suites have had the old appliances replaced with new, energy efficient stoves and fridges, as needed.
Painting walls and replacing carpeting in common areas is on the to-do list, however, the projects will go forward when it's financially possible, read the press release.
Welton Towers is a 62-unit seven-storey located on the corner of Second Avenue and Welton Street.
There are currently a few suites available for rent for low-income seniors (55 years-plus). Please contact John, the building manager, at 604-826-9104 or Tricia at 604-826-2194 for more information.