The District of Sechelt is in the spotlight following the British Columbia government’s recent acquisition of two properties intended for a complex care facility and a supportive housing establishment. While the need for such facilities is generally recognized, local officials, particularly Mayor John Henderson, are expressing concerns regarding their proposed downtown locations.
Mayor Henderson articulated his worries, stating, “We certainly recognize the need for these types of services, but the main issue lies in their concentration right in the heart of the village.” He emphasized potential impacts on local businesses and nearby residents, suggesting that alternative sites should be considered to prevent overwhelming the area.
Impact on the community
According to plans, the proposed 20-bed complex care facility will be located on Ebbtide Street, while a 40-bed supportive housing facility is to be built directly across from an existing supportive housing site. Henderson noted that the downtown area has been struggling with issues related to crime and public disorder.
“A handful of individuals are responsible for a significant amount of the issues we face with crime,” the mayor remarked, highlighting the necessity of a balanced approach to community support. He underscored that residents deserve to feel secure in their homes, especially with the likelihood of doubling the housing units in a confined geographical area.
Need for a balanced approach
Henderson proposed a more diversified distribution of these facilities, drawing a parallel with restaurants. “You wouldn’t locate all restaurants in a single compact area; you would spread them out for better accessibility and balance,” he explained. He expressed a preference for facilities to be located in various areas along the coast, rather than clustering them in the downtown sector.
The mayor also expressed frustration over the lack of consultation from the provincial government prior to these decisions. He has invited Housing Minister Christine Boyle and MLA Randene Neill to visit the area and engage with local residents regarding their concerns.
Provincial government’s response
In response to the mayor’s comments, Minister Boyle asserted that these facilities are vital for providing comprehensive care to those in need. “These services are designed to offer essential support and bring individuals out of tents and into more stable living situations,” she stated in an interview with Global News.
She emphasized that the government is committed to enhancing safety for both individuals in supportive housing and the broader community. “Locating suitable sites can be a complex task, but we are actively working to provide affordable housing and supportive options across the lower Sunshine Coast and in Powell River,” Boyle added.
Community safety and wraparound support
Despite the provincial assurances, the mayor has raised concerns about the sufficiency of wraparound support services for individuals residing in supportive housing. He noted incidents of vandalism and assaults within the community, suggesting that the necessary support systems may not be fully established.
Boyle countered this perspective by reaffirming that these services are indeed available and play a crucial role in fostering community safety. “We aim to work closely with local governments to ensure that these new homes and complex care beds are integrated effectively within their communities,” she explained, reiterating her commitment to collaboration with Sechelt’s leadership.
Mayor Henderson articulated his worries, stating, “We certainly recognize the need for these types of services, but the main issue lies in their concentration right in the heart of the village.” He emphasized potential impacts on local businesses and nearby residents, suggesting that alternative sites should be considered to prevent overwhelming the area.0
