Sydney seniors fed up with apartment building told odour, rodent issues to be fixed

SYDNEY, N.S. — Residents of a government-run housing complex in Sydney are calling for urgent action to address ongoing issues with odours, rodent infestations, and safety hazards at their building.

The seniors’ residence at 22 Tillock Drive, managed by the Cape Breton Island Housing Authority, has been the subject of repeated complaints since September, when approximately 20 tenants raised concerns about deteriorating living conditions.

Among the primary issues reported are persistent unpleasant smells emanating from old and damaged carpets, as well as an ongoing mouse problem that has seen rodents appear in residents' beds, appliances, and common areas.

Joe Dithurbide, one of the affected tenants, described the situation as unacceptable.

"The smell’s been very bad—it’s just a stinky smell," Dithurbide said. "And the mice are still here. Just last week, I had to shut down my TV because they chewed through the wiring."

In addition to odour control and pest concerns, residents also flagged safety issues involving a first-floor emergency exit that has at times been obstructed by snow accumulation.

Following several meetings between tenants and building staff, as well as a recent discussion with Sydney-Whitney Pier MLA Derek Mombourquette, assurances have been made that repairs and remedial measures will begin soon.

Mombourquette confirmed that a tender has been issued for carpet replacement, which is expected to help alleviate both odour and pest problems. He said work is anticipated to begin in early January. A pest control company has also been engaged, and the emergency exit will be inspected to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

“We took a list of all their concerns,” Mombourquette said. “Every request is being passed along to Housing Nova Scotia so it gets the attention it deserves.”

Housing Nova Scotia, the provincial body overseeing public housing authorities, stated in an email to CBC News that individual follow-ups have been conducted with each tenant to discuss their specific concerns.

Despite these promises, many residents remain skeptical.

“I’ll believe it when I see it,” Dithurbide said.

The situation highlights growing concerns over the maintenance and management of aging public housing stock in Nova Scotia, particularly as it affects vulnerable populations such as seniors.