The controversial Howard Johnson Hotel on Ellice Avenue in Winnipeg can once again take guests.

The hotel was ordered closed on Nov. 27 by city officials citing fire safety issues, including problems with the alarm and sprinkler systems.

There were a number of long-term residents who had to be relocated due to the shutdown. Many people come to Winnipeg from northern Manitoba communities for medical appointments and stayed long term at the bargain hotel, living on shoestring budgets.

Social services workers were able to find places for everyone.

Last week, the fire department gave the hotel's managers the green light to reopen but a handful of fixes must still be made quickly to bring it completely up to code.

That means the hotel rooms are open but not the restaurant or banquet room.

"There were 19 items that were noted on the original order, however, the Howard Johnson as of today has addressed the most serious situations that were identified in that order," said Peter Kloos, director of the fire prevention branch.

Failure to complete the outstanding work in a timely manner could mean a second shutdown, Kloos said.