Editor:
As a property owner in the immediate vicinity of the proposed homeless shelter at 599 Gower Point Road in Gibsons and a long-time resident of this neighbourhood, I wish to voice my concerns about both the process of locating this facility and the actual location itself.
Leading up to this proposal there has been no consultation with the surrounding neighbourhood. On the evening of Jan. 18, prior to the meeting of Jan. 22, Councillor White came to our house to inform us that this shelter would be located in close proximity. He made it clear he had initiated the conversation with the owner of the property. As the Town of Gibsons was the one initiating this process, we therefore ask why this immediate neighbourhood was not consulted considering the potential far-reaching impacts of locating such a shelter here. This strikes me as a complete lack of process. The meeting on Jan. 22 was no occasion to voice concerns. In this well-orchestrated event, which featured speakers and audience members with no connection to the proposed neighbourhood, it became quickly apparent that it was not a comfortable event at which to speak freely and voice any concerns.
Regarding the impact of this facility, the location is poor. This is a quiet, safe neighbourhood, one which is heavily populated by young children and seniors, individuals who freely travel the immediate area and corridors surrounding 599 Gower Point Road at all hours of the day and evening. When I read of the problems faced by shelters in areas of the Lower Mainland and other areas, I am perplexed by the choice of this location. This issue is compounded by the nearby location of facilities that cater to youngsters (daycare and preschool).
I also wish to ask how the people using this facility will access facilities. All that surrounds this neighbourhood and its outreaches are residential dwellings. Where are the easily accessible services? I also think the Town has much explaining to do to the residents of this neighbourhood regarding the hit their property values will take.
I do not wish to give the impression that I am against a homeless shelter in Gibsons. We do need one; however, locating this facility here in the heart of this residential neighbourhood is simply irresponsible. Let the Town embark on a path that finds a good facility in a location that works for all.
Janice Schuks, Gibsons
