The Impact of a Temporary Homeless Shelter on Local Businesses and the Community

A Business Owner’s Struggle: Balancing Compassion and Commerce

Chuck Thompson, the owner of Fountain Tire in Kelowna, B.C., has been facing unprecedented challenges since a temporary homeless shelter opened in his neighborhood in November. While he understands the need for such shelters, Thompson has seen his business directly affected by the situation. In recent months, he has spent several thousand dollars upgrading security systems, including cameras, to address issues such as loitering, drug use, and garbage. Despite these efforts, concerns persist, including incidents of public mischief, such as a small fire recently set outside his business. Thompson expressed his frustration, stating that it’s unfair for business owners like him to bear the responsibility of monitoring these issues simply because a shelter was placed in the area. He fears that if the situation continues, it could lead to more businesses being forced to close their doors.

The Shelter’s Operations and Community Partnerships: A Model for Success

The temporary winter shelter, which is set to close at the end of March, has been operating on a 24/7 basis, unlike traditional shelters that only provide overnight services. This model has allowed the shelter to offer ongoing access to essential services for its residents. The shelter is a collaborative effort involving multiple community partners, including the City of Penticton, which leases the property. According to Julie Czeck, the city’s director of public safety and partnerships, the shelter has seen positive results both in terms of public safety and outcomes for the unhoused individuals who use the facility. Since opening in November, nearly a dozen residents have moved into more permanent housing, a success that the city and advocates hope to build on in the future.

The Community’s Efforts to Address Homelessness: A Path Forward

The success of the temporary shelter is not just about providing a place to stay but also about creating pathways to more permanent housing solutions. Linda Sankey, co-chair of 100 More Homes Penticton, a committee dedicated to creating 100 more housing options for those who are unhoused or at risk of homelessness, emphasized the importance of stabilizing the lives of shelter residents. The committee is working on a range of housing options, from new construction to utilizing existing housing stock. A key part of their strategy involves partnering with private landlords who are willing to rent to people in need, with support systems in place for both tenants and landlords to ensure successful outcomes. Sankey noted that the committee’s goal is to provide not only housing but also the necessary support to help individuals reintegrate into the community.

The City’s Plan: Extending the Shelter and Securing Funding

As the temporary shelter approaches its planned closing date at the end of March, the City of Penticton is considering extending its operation for another year. City staff will present a report to council seeking approval to engage with the province for funding to support the extension. Julie Czeck explained that if the province commits to providing the necessary funds, the issue will then go back to council for a final vote. The city is also planning to increase communication with neighboring businesses, acknowledging the concerns that business owners like Chuck Thompson have raised. Czeck stated that if the council directs staff to explore funding with the province, the next step will involve a targeted engagement process with local businesses to address their concerns and gather feedback.

A Business Owner’s Plea: Communication and Collaboration Are Key

Chuck Thompson hopes that the city will take his concerns seriously and engage in open communication with business owners before making any decisions about extending the shelter. He suggested that the city should approach nearby businesses to discuss their plans and ask for input. Thompson believes that a more collaborative approach would help address the concerns of business owners while also ensuring that the needs of the homeless population are met. He emphasized that he is not against the idea of providing shelter but feels that the current situation is unsustainable for businesses like his. Thompson’s concerns highlight the delicate balance that must be struck when addressing complex social issues like homelessness, where the needs of multiple stakeholders must be considered.

Conclusion: Finding a Balance Between Compassion and Community Needs

The debate over the temporary homeless shelter in Penticton reflects the broader challenges of addressing homelessness in many communities. While the shelter has been praised for its innovative approach and the positive outcomes it has achieved, it has also raised concerns among local business owners who feel the impact of its presence. As the city considers extending the shelter, it will be important to find a balance that addresses the needs of both the unhoused individuals and the businesses that are the lifeblood of the community. By fostering greater communication and collaboration, the city can work toward solutions that are both compassionate and sustainable. The success of this effort will depend on the willingness of all parties to engage in open and honest dialogue, with the shared goal of creating a safer, more supportive environment for everyone.