A new homeless shelter proposal has made its way to North Battleford City Hall.
However, no decision has been reached on the bid to set up a shelter by the Reclaim Outreach Centre on 102nd Street. Instead, the matter will be brought forward at the June 27 meeting for a decision, to ensure continued community consultation and input on the issue.
A number of letters have already been received by the City on the application, with the city receiving even numbers of letters both for and against the homeless shelter. Administration is hoping the two-week delay will allow for any concerns or apprehensions about the proposal to be addressed.
This latest proposal calls for the operation of a permanent homeless shelter for men and women at the Reclaim Outreach Centre, with a total capacity of 20 persons. The Reclaim Outreach Centre has operated a gospel ministry from the location since 2005, with a mission to provide meals, clothing and outreach to the urban poor. A delegation consisting of Don Toovey and pastor Leonard Beaucage of Reclaim Outreach Centre were at the podium at the meeting to outline their plans to council.
They told council they planned to operate the homeless shelter in the evening hours only, with the expectation those using the shelter would have jobs or otherwise be occupied during the day.
Mayor Ian Hamilton told reporters the concerns from the public revolve around the traffic that could be generated at the location.
Hamilton acknowledged the need for a homeless shelter is there. He noted the need was recognized with -30 to -40 C weather, which was why they approved a temporary shelter last year over the winter months.
"The Indian-Métis Friendship Centre stepped up to the plate and opened their doors," said Hamilton of the situation at the time.
However, that was done on a temporary basis only and council has identified the need for a homeless shelter to be set up on a more permanent basis. A proposal made by Heaven's Kitchen to establish a homeless shelter at the Marlborough Inn on 100th Street was turned down earlier this year, with that proposal opposed from a number of businesses who expressed concern a homeless shelter at that location would impact negatively on downtown revitalization efforts.
Afterwards, efforts have focused on getting some sort of comprehensive strategy in the community on how to address the homeless situation, which have included co-ordinated efforts towards establishing a shelter.
