The deconstruction process for East View Lodge is underway. Security fencing has been set up around the building while work crews are on hand to begin soft removal at the site. “They are in the process of removing the hazardous materials inside,” Neepawa’s engineering supervisor Denis Saquet explained, noting that includes asbestos removal. The actual demolition of the building is not expected to occur for eight or more weeks. The Province is responsible for the deconstruction of the building, while the Town of Neepawa has agreed to purchase the land for $1 once the building materials are all removed. It is expected the property will be re-developed following the deconstruction, but no development deal has been announced as of yet. Mayor Ken Waddell has said, within the next 10 years, the Town believes it will need about 500 more units/homes to accommodate the 500 or so newcomers in Neepawa that are expected to bring their families to the community as they gain permanent residence status in Canada. With that influx anticipated, the Town continues to receive plenty of interest for developments. “We’re probably getting an average of one call per week for that (East View Lodge) or other property in Neepawa,” Waddell said. Following a public meeting in the spring of 2012 where there appeared to be no opposition to demolishing East View Lodge, council voted in favour of the deconstruction process. At that time it was noted the building had basically deteriorated to a state of disrepair.