Pembroke City Council has voted to allocate $110,000 towards operating a warming centre this winter, but the decision has sparked strong opposition from two council members. The motion, passed by a majority of five councillors, includes $100,000 for operational costs and an additional $10,000 in contingency funds.
The warming centre, located at the Farmers’ Market site, provides shelter for homeless individuals during the cold winter months. Despite support from Mayor Ron Gervais, Deputy-Mayor Brian Abdallah, and others, Councillors Ian Kuehl and Andrew Plummer voiced concerns over the lack of a clear budget and long-term plan. Kuehl, in particular, criticized the process, stating that no budget was available at the time of the vote and questioning the absence of written agreements with the County or the Farmers’ Market committee.
Councillor Troy Purcell, who has worked closely on the ad-hoc committee for the warming centre, defended the allocation, explaining that the county would oversee the centre’s operation. He emphasized that although a permanent solution is still in development, the warming centre is needed as a temporary measure for this winter. Purcell also mentioned that the hours of operation would be extended this year to reduce loitering and provide warmth to individuals after The Grind, a local homeless support service, closes in the late afternoon.
However, Councillor Plummer raised concerns about allocating funds without addressing other pressing issues in the city, particularly services for seniors. He suggested that the city should focus more on supporting the elderly population, some of whom struggle to access healthcare and other essential services.
While some councillors, like Councillor Ed Jacyno, acknowledged the importance of the warming centre from a humanitarian perspective, others questioned whether it was the best use of city resources. Councillor Kuehl, in particular, opposed the plan, arguing that the warming centre was merely a temporary fix and that no permanent solution seemed imminent.
Despite the opposition, the majority of council members voted in favor of the funding, with the mayor and several councillors expressing confidence in the county’s ability to manage the centre effectively. The warming centre will continue to operate at the Farmers’ Market site for the 2024-2025 winter season, with plans for a more permanent solution still in progress.
For now, the city is moving forward with its commitment, despite ongoing debates about its long-term approach to addressing homelessness and related issues in the community.
(Written by: Emma Butler)