Centre Wellington officially signed the lease Monday for the farmhouse on Gartshore Street in Fergus that has been providing temporary residence for locums and doctors.

Township of Centre Wellington CAO Dan Wilson says the farmhouse has made a good impact thus far.

"We are utilizing the farmhouse at 965 Gartshore Street for healthcare professionals living temporarily in Centre Wellington. I'm happy to note that the farmhouse is being well-used," Wilson said.

"The hospital is really appreciating the support that council is providing in this area," he added.

A healthcare recruitment committee was formed for Groves Memorial Hospital in February, and it developed an approach for the recruitment of healthcare professionals. The first step of the newly formed plan was to provide accessible living spaces for those just recruited to provide care locally. Mayor Shawn Watters said he was proud of the gage council had for what would be best for the community.

"Here we are, we're signing the lease after the fact in some ways, but that demonstrated that we also understand the need in our community to have a residence like this and the importance of supporting our community in terms of doctors," Watters stated.

Up to four can stay in the farmhouse at once. The farmhouse was furnished through the chip-ins of community stakeholders after being approved for use by council in late April. The property, at which these medical professionals pay no rent, will be leased without a fee to the hospital until May 31, 2024.

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