Tecumseh council has approved a memorandum of understanding with the Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County (AWSE), advancing plans for a new regional headquarters and programming facility beside Tecumseh Arena. The proposed project includes a 20,000-square-foot, two-storey building and a therapeutic garden for people living with dementia and their care partners. The two-year agreement outlines responsibilities as both sides negotiate a long-term lease and other agreements. Ward 1 Coun. Alicia Higgison said the proposal reflects community values. “Very happy to support this MOU, happy to see it moving forward. And we’ll be thrilled to have a facility like this for use in the community, by the community, and for the community,” said Higgison. Mayor Gary McNamara said a new facility will help address a growing need in the community. “To bring that into this region and expanding it to serve, I call it the greater North Shore, including City of Windsor and a large part of the County of Essex, I think it’s a blessing in disguise,” McNamara said. He was looking forward to getting shovels in the ground. “This is the beginning and looking forward to it,” McNamara added. “I know that every member of council and administration here are 100 per cent in support of what you’re doing and looking forward to a great future partnership.” The ASWE will obtain construction cost estimates, seek a property assessment and continue fundraising to cover construction costs before final agreements return to council. The ASWE currently occupies space at 2135 Richmond St. in Windsor, not far from Walker Road.
