Over the past two weeks, City administration held facilitated focus group conversations with members of the downtown community about the permanent shelter and the potential site announced in January. On March 7 during a special Council meeting, Council will review the full “What we heard” report on those conversations, as well as details about next steps.
“Originally we planned to have first reading of the Land Use Bylaw amendment on March 7, however, we feel it is important for administration to present this information to Council and consider the results prior to consideration of first reading,” said Interim City Manager, Tara Lodewyk. “We need to make time in the process and not rush the decision. These were valuable discussions, and I was encouraged by how our community came to the table to share their perspectives and work toward solutions.”
The facilitated conversations included several downtown property owners, businesses, associations, and social service providers. The full report is being together by the third-party engagement specialist who facilitated the community conversations
“We look forward to sharing the results on March 7. There were some common themes in the discussions including a desire for transparency and understanding, willingness to help find a community solution, and having a clear vision for shelter. We are currently working on proposed next steps that will build on theses common themes and what we heard,” said Lodewyk.
For more information visit www.reddeer.ca/shelter.
For more information, please contact:
Corporate Communications
The City of Red Deer