The search for a permanent emergency shelter in Regina has been a hot topic among residents and city council members. Plans for a shelter on Albert Street were rejected in June, but the issue has come up again with a new proposed location at 1600 Halifax St., known as the Eagles Club. This news came as a surprise to neighbors in the area who believe the location is not suitable. A petition against the decision was started by the team at LK Auto Collision, who are concerned about the proximity of the shelter to other facilities such as the Oskana Centre and a playground for the Ranch Ehrlo Society.
Bobby Krznar, the owner of LK Auto Collision, expressed his concerns about the new shelter location, stating that it is being tucked away in a corner where it is not easily visible. While he believes in providing shelter for the homeless, he feels that the previously discussed Albert Street location would have been more suitable. Krznar emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about homelessness and involving more people in finding solutions to the issue. He feels that hiding the shelter away in a less busy location is not the right approach.
Peter Gilmer from the Regina Anti-Poverty Ministry acknowledges the urgent need for a permanent shelter in the city, especially with the harsh winter conditions. He believes that the new location has some strengths in terms of nearby services, but additional support will be required to make it work effectively. Gilmer stresses the importance of ensuring that human service resources are in place in the neighborhood to support the shelter. The issue will be discussed at the upcoming executive committee meeting before it goes to city council on September 25.
The team at LK Auto Collision plans to speak and present their petition at the upcoming meeting to voice their concerns about the shelter location. While the Eagles Club, where the shelter is proposed to be located, did not provide a comment, they have indicated that discussions among their executive team will take place regarding the city’s announcement. The decision on the shelter location is expected to be a key point of discussion at the upcoming meetings, with various stakeholders sharing their perspectives and concerns.
Overall, the search for a permanent emergency shelter in Regina remains a complex and contentious issue, with different stakeholders expressing varying opinions on the proposed locations. While there is a consensus on the need for a shelter, the debate continues on the most suitable location and the necessary support services to make it successful. As the discussion moves forward in the executive committee and city council meetings, it is clear that finding a solution that addresses the concerns of all parties involved will be crucial in addressing homelessness in the city effectively. The decision on the shelter location will have a significant impact on the community and the individuals in need of emergency housing.
