A temporary emergency warming facility in Caraquet has been given a second opportunity following objections from locals. The town council postponed voting on a temporary permit for the shelter on Jan. 12 after a contentious meeting where public members expressed worries about the project. Councillors will reconvene early this week to decide on the permit after a subsequent meeting influenced the views of some residents.
The Acadian Peninsula Regional Service Commission aims to set up a six-bed overnight shelter at the nearby airport, which is not utilized in winter, to cater to the homeless population in the area. The commission stated that this solution had been in progress for over two years.
Caraquet Coun. Pierre Boudreau described the situation on Monday as tumultuous, with residents feeling fearful and anxious due to lack of information. Consequently, he refrained from voting until residents were adequately informed and their concerns addressed.
George Godin, a resident near the airport, initially opposed the warming shelter plan but later changed his viewpoint along with several others. A public meeting held on Jan. 15 by the Town of Caraquet, involving social workers and project stakeholders, explained the necessity of the chosen location for this year and the security measures implemented.
The council is set to vote again on allowing a temporary permit for the project to proceed, with hopes for approval from Godin. He emphasized the importance of offering assistance to those in need and expressed willingness to participate in ongoing discussions regarding homelessness solutions.
Cédric Landry, the director of community engagement for the Acadian Peninsula Regional Service Commission, highlighted the benefits of using the airport as a warming centre due to its isolated location during winter. The plan includes providing transportation and on-site staff to ensure supervision and access to services for shelter users.
Despite initial challenges, Landry remains positive about addressing homelessness in the community and envisions finding a more permanent solution once the immediate warming centre need is met.
