Homeless encampments are becoming an increasing issue in Prince Albert. The city and Sask. Housing are close to the start of construction of a new shelter. (file photo/paNOW)

By Susan McNeil

Council decisions

Homeless shelter takes next step towards reality

Oct 28, 2025 | 1:17 PM

A permanent shelter for homeless people is almost ready to proceed after Prince Albert city council voted 6-3 in favour of granting the development permit.

About a dozen members of the public were at Monday’s council meeting, but no one opted to speak out in person.

Staff said concerns raised occasionally during the process that the number of beds would increase over 45 are unfounded and any increase must be approved by council.

“Under no circumstances would the number of beds go up from 45 without going to city council first,” said Craig Guidinger, director of community services.

Council has already placed multiple checks on the project, including the creation of a contract zone. That means the city made a specific zoning that is under contract with Sask Housing.

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Conditions on the contract include designing it for crime reduction and having services like referrals to addiction management and support workers for housing be on site.

Another condition was that there be a continual way to address neighbourhood concerns that might arise later. A neighbourhood support team will be created by the end of November.

While the city is signing deals with Sask Housing as far as land use and ownership goes, it will be the Prince Albert Grand Council that operates the shelter. PAGC took over operations of Stepping Stones, the temporary shelter, after the YWCA opted to step aside.

The final step in the process is to sign a servicing agreement with the province.

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susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com