A large group of people in Kentville, N.S. gathered on Wednesday night to express worries about a planned small home project that would assist those living on the streets in the Annapolis Valley.
During the over two-hour meeting, individuals in the area mostly expressed their disapproval of the project, suggesting it would be better suited in a different part of the municipality.
Concerns were also raised about the trustworthiness of the service provider Open Arms, the presence of drug and alcohol use on the site, and the safety of the project in its location.
In late October, town staff became aware of the specifics when a municipal agenda mentioned that “15 tiny homes will be built on the land near the courthouse/entrance to Miner’s Marsh.”
However, letters obtained by Global News from Taylor MacLellan Cochrane Lawyers showed opposition to that location.
“I respectfully argue that, for the above reasons, there is simply no authority for the development to be built in the proposed location and, if that fact is ignored, the concerned citizens will have no choice but to seek intervention from the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia,” the letter stated.
Subsequently, the project was relocated across the river to the Municipality of the County of Kings, where it continues to face strong opposition.
When questioned by residents, Department of Community Services staff referred to the planned site behind the courthouse as “rumours,” and stated that whoever hired lawyers was “out of line.”
“The consultation process takes a lot of time, and ultimately I believe we would have reached the same conclusion (for the site to be placed in North Kentville),” Meredith Cowan, from the Department of Community Services, stated at Wednesday's meeting.
“So for us, the priority is people in tents and ensuring they’re warm and safe.”
The shelters are equipped with electricity, washrooms, laundry, and on-site support, and each unit includes a bed frame, mattress, and a desk.
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Submitted / Pallet
According to 2022 data from Homeless No More Annapolis Valley, 231 individuals experienced homelessness between West Hants and Digby, N.S., with nearly half of them believed to be staying in Kentville.
The organization believes an additional 124 children are homeless.
Open Arms, the service provider, stated that more residents are seeking their assistance, and the need in the area has been increasing.
“We aim to operate with honesty and be good neighbors and caretakers of the area. I really want to collaborate with the community to make this a positive experience not only for our guests but also for the people in the neighborhood,” said Leanne Jennings, executive director of Open Arms.
“There is a great need for dignified housing in our area, and these pallet shelters uniquely provide that.”
Throughout the meeting, residents raised concerns about a growing affordability crisis in the area, including the rising costs of electricity, rent, and food in the Kentville region.
One resident said pallet shelters were just a small part of the solution as he asked for more affordable housing choices.
Some people were still bothered by the province not asking for their opinions on pallets after the meeting.
Fiona Van Wilgenburg felt more clear about the project after the meeting, and mentioned that while she doesn't oppose the project, the province isn't considering the concerns of residents.
She explained to Global News after the meeting that most people feel like the shelters shouldn't be in a residential area and are upset about it.
It would be good for the province and everyone else to listen to our concerns and make a plan based on that,
The 20 structures will be constructed near the hospital in Nova Scotia within the next four to six weeks.
No ministers attended the meeting because of a long session at the legislature.
