A planning consultant has been chosen to help guide Oak Bay through the latest proposal for a new care facility to replace Oak Bay Lodge.
At its Monday (Feb. 13) meeting, council selected Focus as the winning bidder. The municipality received interest from seven different proponents, but it was Focus’ multifaceted approach that appealed most to municipal administrator Mark Brennan, who recommended the hire to council in a report.
“In my opinion community engagement is the most critical aspect of this project, and for that reason the Focus proposal is superior to the others,” Brennan wrote in the report. “I like the team approach as it draws upon the different styles and expertise of the individuals involved.”
The consultation is funded by Baptist Housing, the organization behind the Lodge replacement proposal. However, Baptist Housing CEO Howard Johnson said last week that the consultant will take its lead from council.