Raaska and Krats were re-elected at the third annual meeting held at Voima Hall On March 24, 1985. The City if Sudbury agreed in April to provide a direct bus connection between the downtown and Finlandia-Koti. Numerous people were in attendance for the formal laying of the cornerstone which took place on May 31. While the Finlandia-Koti complex was completed early in August, the doors were not officially opened to tenants until September 1.
The formal opening of the complex on September 29 was marked by a ribbon cutting ceremony and the unveiling of a plaque to honour those whose contributions helped to bring the project to completion. The project, which finally cost $4 284 743, was funded by a CMHC-insured mortgage over a 35-year amortization period. The complex included 67 one-bedroom and 23 two-bedroom apartments. Five of the units were designated as handicapped apartments. Some 30 per cent of the units also consisted of rent-geared to-income apartments, subsidized by the federal government. In addition to the apartments, the project accommodated other facilities such as a convenience store, two saunas, a gym, auditorium, laundry and craft rooms and a chapel.
On October 16, Kotikerho was formed as a tenants’ association. Originally founded by Inkeri Oinonen, it has since continued to serve as the group promoting the interests of the tenants.
From 1985 until 1990, this association was chaired by Toivo Lain; the position was subsequently taken over by Jules Paivio in 1991. Through varied activities such as tea: and bake sales, bingos, film presentations and morning coffee socials, this group has raised considerable money for the purchase of furniture and equipment for the Koti. An intense effort likewise went into enhancing the landscape around the building through the planting of colourful flower beds and a large garden plot for the personal use of the residents. In the meantime, the ladies’ auxiliary continued its fine work in promoting the profile of the Society through many fundraising efforts.
The Society, however, was saddened by the passing away of two of its active members, Onni Rintamaki and Frank Korpela in 1985. Another noteworthy event was the decision to erect an inscribed “plaque brick” wall in the main foyer of Finlandia-Koti to recognize donations of more than $100 and $1000.
The 4th annual meeting of the Rest Home Society was held at Sampo Hall on March 23, 1986 at which time Aate Ojalammi became Chairman. Aino Krats was re-elected as Secretary.