The Waterbase Inn could be sold to Kikinahk Friendship Centre and used as a homeless shelter. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

town council

Strong opposition for downtown homeless shelter ahead of Tuesday public hearing

Apr 22, 2024 | 12:51 PM

All submission ahead of a public hearing in La Ronge on Tuesday regarding a proposed homeless shelter downtown have been in opposition.

That’s according to a review of letters submitted to town administration ahead of Tuesday’s regular council meeting. The public hearing is in regards to a proposed amendment to the Zoning Bylaw to allow Kikinahk Friendship Centre to purchase the Waterbase Inn and convert it into a year-round homeless shelter.

Letters have been submitted by Stephen and Kaylene Bagwell, Markis Fettery, Sarah Guest, Kaetlyn Mankinen and Scott Robertson. Another submission in opposition that doesn’t appear in the municipal documents, but was forwarded to council and larongeNOW is from Graham and Suzanne Guest.

“We have significant reservations about the request for a zoning bylaw change to 303 La Ronge Avenue,” the Bagwells wrote.

“We are sympathetic to the plight of our homeless population and to the cause of those who provide immediate care for them, but it is our belief that while a conversion of the Waterbase Inn to a temporary homeless shelter might provide a “temporary” reprieve of some concerns, it will only create an even more intractable issue overall.”

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Robertson wrote he is protesting the proposed bylaw amendment in the strongest possible terms.

“A homeless shelter on La Ronge Avenue is the worst possible location for such a facility,” he noted.

“This would have a negative effect on tourism and economic development, and would increase the potential for crime in the area. The lake and lakeshore of this community should be developed, showcased, and promoted. Allowing a homeless shelter on La Ronge Avenue is both short-sighted and destructive.”

The Guests wrote they are firm advocates of protecting the town’s shoreline, adding they request council to keep with their intentions as outlined in the municipal Downtown Revitalization Plan.

“It one of the most beautiful areas to build our community around for the enjoyment of the residents and to draw tourists to our community,” they wrote.

“We are against any rezoning/bylaw amendments for properties along the shoreline that affect its preservation and protection.”

The regular council meeting on Tuesday starts at 7 p.m. at the town office. All online submission in regards to the public hearing, which will occur during tomorrow’s meeting, can be found online here.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com