Editor:
Re: “St. Hilda’s extends shelter stay,” Dec. 1.
I am writing to express my deep gratitude to community members who turned out at BC Housing’s Dec. 4 public information meeting on the rezoning application of Upper Deck Guesthouse as “shelter residence.” It was very moving to see the level of support for the immediate opening of an expanded temporary shelter with proper beds.
In my attempt to articulate the urgency of providing more shelter beds in the article published on Dec. 1, I questioned the District of Sechelt’s public consultation process as an unconscionable waste of time and money. I have since regretted my choice of such harsh words: they were neither truthful nor fair to district staff and councillors who, I have since learned, had worked hard to expedite an approval process within the existing regulatory framework.
The District of Sechelt has not only shouldered more than its share in providing services for those who are homeless but is also an important partner in finding a solution; I regret suggesting anything otherwise.
If the application is to be approved by the district at council’s scheduled Dec. 19 and 20 meetings to allow the Wharf Road facility to be opened before Christmas, I take joy in being in error for my harsh judgment
Rev. Clarence Li, St. Hilda’s Anglican Church, Sechelt
