The existing site exception for the temporary emergency housing site expired on September 30, 2021, and it is now operational through an executive order following the declaration of a State of Local Emergency (SOLE) in place up until February 15, 2022.

As part of the Public Hearing process, neighbours within 100 meters of the site will receive a letter from the administration inviting them to submit feedback on the amendment. The general public is also invited to provide feedback in advance or during the Public Hearing. Those wishing to provide feedback during the Public Hearing on January 17, 2022 are invited to attend the online Council meeting at 4 p.m.. Full details on the Public Hearing and how to provide feedback will be uploaded to The City’s site in the coming weeks. Details will be available at www.reddeer.ca/publichearing.

Council received an update on the current emergency housing status in the community on December 1, 2021. Administration had explored all opportunities for relocating the temporary site, but no viable solutions were available. The report outlined the need for full spectrum housing in the city, the goal is to have a permanent purpose-built emergency housing site in Red Deer operational within two years. Funding is in place and steps are underway with the province to make this a reality for the community. A location for the permanent site has not been decided. This Land Use Bylaw amendment would facilitate a temporary emergency housing solution at the current location until the permanent site is operational.

For background information on the temporary emergency housing site, visit www.reddeer.ca/emergencyhousing.