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A homelessness count in October 2024 found 100 people without shelter in La Ronge. (Image Credit: Photo 40995064 © Katarzyna Bialasiewicz | Dreamstime.com)
consultation

Date set for homeless campsite public meeting

Apr 17, 2026 | 5:00 PM

The Town of La Ronge has set a date to consult with the public about their plans to open a homeless campground in the community. 

The idea was first discussed at a regular meeting in March when council decided the best location to allow for a homeless encampment would be an undeveloped area along Finlayson Street. The plan called for the site to be open from May long weekend until October with total costs for 2026 around $11,400, including signage, portable toilets, garbage receptacles and fire pits.     

Strong opposition to the location followed that decision with administration receiving 10 letters against it and a nearby business owner starting a petition, which received more than 200 signatures.  

“I’m OK with doing further consultation with the public. We’ve got some feedback, we’ve got some very strong points. We need to make sure if we go forward we cover the concerns that are out there,” said Mayor Hordyski at a special meeting on April 2. 

“The challenge for the town has always been having encampments in the parks and we’re trying to keep our parks safe for the public and that kind of what drove this thing. We have parks where people are uncomfortable spending time in them and we’re trying to maybe find an area that would reduce that number from the parks and at the same time give an opportunity to work with these people.” 

Earlier this week, council decided to host the public forum on April 22 and 6:30 p.m. at the curling lounge in the Mel Hegland Uniplex. A map was also released showing eight potential spots where a homeless campground could be set up.

The areas highlighted in green are areas identified for the campsite location.
The areas highlighted in green are areas identified for the campsite location. (Image Credit: Town of La Ronge)

They range from areas close to businesses to others near residential neighbourhoods.  

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com