Click below for online version
Take a Peek Inside this Week...
McNeill clinic expanding with new addition
By Kathy O'Reilly, North Island Eagle, May 9 2025
​​​​​​​
The medical clinic in Port McNeill is growing.
At their regular meeting April 22, Port McNeill council approved a variance that will pave the way for the addition of a modular building at the existing A’ekaḵila’as Primary Care Centre on McNeill Road.
The addition will go on the northeast corner of the property and will primarily be used for two exam rooms, two doctor’s offices and include a portion for infant and childcare.
The proposal does not fully conform to the town’s Zoning Bylaw, requiring variances to the minimum setbacks for buildings as well as a reduction in the required off street parking stalls.
The unique site layout and location of the existing Medical Clinic building constrains the ability for an optimal solution to the increasing need for additional space for the clinic both in terms of area utilized and time to implement. The modular addition provides this solution.
According to a report presented to council, the proposed setback reductions will not significantly affect the abutting Public Use zones, and the reduced number of parking stalls are proposed to be provided off-site at the neighbouring swimming pool and arena parking lot.
It is staff’s opinion that the need for the clinic’s addition greatly outweighs the minor regulatory variances proposed.
In addition to approving the variance, “Council has also directed staff to enter into dialogue with the applicant to determine appropriate offsite parking,” said Chief Administrative Officer Brenda Johnson.
“The construction that was previously taking place was under a separate permit to upgrade the infrastructure services,” Johnson explained.
The Mount Waddington Regional Hospital District purchased the building and land in August of 2021.
Photo — Kathy O'Reilly
A modular building is being added to the A’ekaḵila’as Primary Care Centre on McNeill Road that will make room for two exam rooms and doctors offices.
Hotel 19 (North Shore 2.0) hoping to open doors in June
​
By Kathy O'Reilly, North Island Eagle, May 9 2025
By Kathy O’Reilly
Hotel 19, the establishment formerly known as the North Shore Inn, is looking to open in June.
Kristina Fedorak and Kirstie Bradshaw, who both have a background in tourism, partnered in the purchase of the hotel and have been busy renovating the building.
Fedorak owns Ecoscape Cabins and Bradshaw is the owner/operator of Sockeye Cottages in Port Hardy.
The duo has been keeping the local and greater community apprised of the transformation with postings on Instagram with followers being invested and engaged in the updates.
“We are surprised at how many people follow along and mention they look forward to our posts,” said Bradshaw.
“We would love for people to follow along on Insta: Hotel 19 (northshore_2.0) and we can’t wait to share what we create... soon,” she said.
“Things are very busy and moving very quickly at the hotel, although some days it doesn’t feel that way.
For instance, “we have flooring going in and will be starting the exterior very quickly. Deliveries are coming in daily. I’m sure Canada Post is sick of us already,” she jokes.
The colour scheme will consist mainly of earthy tones.
“It will be nice and clean with some pops of colour in accents.”
When complete, the hotel will have 30 rooms, all with their own decks and ocean views. New patio doors have already been installed.
“We are going to be open in June, but that date is still TBD (to be determined). We are hoping early in June though. We have our logo complete, and a booking website currently being built, it should be complete and functional in the next week or so!” www.hotel19.ca is the website.
The extensive renovation has led to some unique findings.
“We have found SO many things! I’m not sure anything in the last 30 years has been thrown away,” Bradshaw said.
These treasures include newspapers from the 80’s and 90’s, ground beef “that I’m sure is 20 years old (price was $3.85), too many underwear to count,” and a hidden floor safe.
“Basically, when we think we’ve found it all, something else pops up! We do plan to keep some of the items to showcase in the hotel,” she said.
“For example, there are some old saws, signs, and keys that we plan to keep,” she said.
“The biggest and best surprise, however, has been the continued support from the community. It’s a lot of work but having people rooting for us and wanting us to succeed has been a very welcome motivator!”
Photo —By Kathy O'Reilly
Melan Roofing and Renovations repairs rotten rim joists at Hotel 19, formerly North Shore Inn, that is undergoing a massive makeover and slated to open next month.