The North Shore Business Improvement Association is attempting to reassure its members that transition housing located at 185 Royal Avenue in Kamloops will not lead to more crime.
Executive Director Jeremy Heighten says this facility represents a big step up, compared to what’s been located in the area.
“A housing site that is manned and staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We think there will be a major reduction in the transient level population around the area which should lead almost immediately to a cessation of most of the issues,” he said.
Kamloops Mayor Ken Christian calls it the best solution considering the time.
“You know, I’m always suspicious of people that send out a news release on a Saturday of a long weekend,” he noted.
“But you know, other than that, I think the consultation piece with the neighbourhood is what’s important. So we will given them the benefit of the doubt on that.”
The new shelter will have 30 short term beds.
It’ll serve as transition housing until next May, when two government built affordable housing projects will be ready for occupancy.