(Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Council Preview

P.A. council set to discuss temporary homeless shelter, fireworks ban

Jan 21, 2022 | 2:00 PM

Prince Albert could be getting a temporary shelter to help with the homelessness problem.

The city’s council meets on Monday where they’ll discuss turning Moose Lodge, the community’s only warmup centre, into a 20-bed shelter until the end of April.

The Prince Albert Grand Council, which operates the centre, came up with the idea as they’ve noticed too many people spending the night out in the cold.

Due to the increase in the homeless population, the Stepping Stones shelter has had to turn people away since they don’t have enough beds.

The PAGC has outlined measures they’ll implement to ensure everyone’s safety. This includes having at least three trained staff in the building at all times, each having access to a panic button in the case of an emergency and coordinating a plan with P.A.’s police service.

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In a separate discussion, P.A.’s council will also discuss sending $10,000 to the PAGC to help with operations at the lodge. This idea was brought up by Councillor Tony Head.

Back in December when the centre opened, the PAGC noted they were covering the majority of costs. They didn’t clarify how much they were spending, only clarifying it was a large amount.

Meanwhile, the proposed fireworks ban is up for approval.

Back in November, Fire Chief Kris Olsen presented a proposed updated fire services bylaw which included banning low-hazard fireworks within city limits and putting in a $500 fine for those caught doing so.

Each motion needs three approvals before it becomes official with P.A.’s council already giving the thumbs up twice.

Also up for discussion is potential designs for the new aquatic and arena centre.

The meeting gets underway on Monday at 5 p.m. Those planning to attend in person must provide proof of vaccination.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow