City staff say this is a regional issue, and a committee would be duplication of services
Homelessness and addiction advocates are angry Welland city council narrowly turned down creation of a committee to deal with the problem, as needed.
Councillor Tony DiMarco's idea lost in a tie vote of 5-5, with some councillors not present.
Community Services Director Jessica Ruddell pointed out this is a regional responsibility. "Additionally, the city is already involved in several related groups, such as the Encampment Task Force, the Homelessness Working Group, the Shelter Neighbourhood Relations Committee, and Affordable Housing Committee, each addressing overlapping concerns."
Advocate Steven Soos tells us Thorold city councillor Carmen DeRose will bring a similar motion to his council July 8th.
DiMarco's idea also called for people with lived experience to contribute.
However, Community Services Director Jessica Ruddell noted while this is a critical issue, it would create duplication of services. "Finally, city staff simply don't have the specialized expertise to support these complex needs and resources. City staff refer people to appropriate resources overseen by the province or the region."
Following the vote, Councillor DiMarco said the committee should still proceed, and get help from other levels of government.
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