Engineers are examining the Penhorwood Apartments in Fort McMurray to determine if 300 displaced residents can get back inside to get the rest of their belongings. Serious structural problems have caused 300 people to be evacuated from the buildings.
Many owners from the apartment complex told CTV News they are facing bankruptcy as they continue to make mortgage payments for a home they can't live in.
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is looking at a new option to try and help those without a home. Originally, there was talk about declaring a state of emergency, but officials told CTV they cannot declare a state of emergency because this incident does not meet the requirements.
Officials suggest the municipality is looking at options to get financial aid to displaced residents, but admit for the time being, only short-term solutions are in place.
Some pictures posted on a website created by the Penhorwood condo board shows the stress being put on the joists securing the building. Another image shows a broken piece of glass over a crack in the foundation.
Engineers entered the complex Tuesday afternoon to begin their review.
"They're starting the work of determining how the buildings can be stabilized to the extent that people could get in to remove their furniture. I'm optimistic, cautiously optimistic that we can get something worked out here in the short term," said condo owner and City Councillor Allan Vinni.
Vinni told CTV News they expect to have feedback from engineers by the end of the week.
With files from Dez Melenka
