In a devastating blow to one of the Northland's most respected nonprofits, the Northland Therapeutic Riding Center (NTRC) has announced the termination of its contract with 221 Construction, LLC, citing gross negligence, abandonment, and serious safety concerns. The decision, made on February 25, 2025, comes after months of silence and inaction from the contractor, who left the project in June 2024, leaving NTRC with a half-completed building and nearly $400,000 in lost funds.
"This was supposed to be more than just a construction project—it was meant to be a place where individuals with disabilities could thrive, even on the coldest days when horse therapy is not an option," said NTRC Executive Director Cathy Huddleston. "Instead, we found ourselves with a dangerous, unusable site and a contractor who walked away, leaving us heartbroken and in a perilous situation."
The original project included the construction of a classroom and meeting facility essential for NTRC's year-round therapeutic programs for individuals with special needs. However, the partnership turned into a nightmare as the nonprofit was left with incomplete work, failed designs, and numerous code violations. Despite repeated efforts by NTRC's legal team, including experienced construction attorney Heather Shore, 221 Construction refused to return and address the safety hazards or provide any refunds for the funds entrusted to them.
Recently, NTRC discovered that 221 Construction had left behind significant electrical hazards that went unaddressed during the initial phases of the project. These issues resulted in costly repairs and further deepened the organization's financial struggles.
Adding to the woes, NTRC learned that 221 Construction is planning to dissolve the business, likely to avoid paying creditors—including nonprofits like NTRC.
"When we began this project, our Board of Directors made a clear commitment: we would not use any funds from our participant programs for construction," explained Board President Michel Kaiser. "We raised all the necessary funds specifically for this building with the intention of completing it debt-free. To see nearly $400,000 taken from us by a contractor, only to be abandoned, is deeply painful—especially for an organization that serves vulnerable children and adults with disabilities."
Despite this setback, NTRC remains resolute in its mission to provide life-changing equine-assisted therapy. The organization is moving forward with the help of a new team of vetted contractors and designers, alongside the volunteer expertise of architect Dave Hendrikse. NTRC is also continuing to work with its legal counsel to hold 221 Construction accountable for their actions.
As the nonprofit looks to rebuild, they are launching a renewed capital fundraising campaign and are calling on the community for support. NTRC is inviting local supporters, media outlets, and partners to help spread the word and assist in turning the page on this unfortunate chapter.
"Together, we can create a space where challenges are met with courage and lives are changed—one hoofbeat at a time," said Huddleston.
KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.
