The 2nd Street Supportive Housing Project proposed for Grand Forks has caused a City-wide uproar, that’s according to concerned resident Pamela Kennedy. Kennedy is one of many petitioning in opposition of the project, collecting signatures from both residences and businesses. So far petitioners have garnered over 500 signatures.
She explains how the idea came to fruition:
“We started questioning as ‘what can we do rather than talk about the issue’ so this one of the ideas that we came up with, to do a petition to be able to let the residents of Grand Forks be heard.”
Kennedy adds that their biggest concern is the location.
“We are not bias against the individuals that were opposing (the petition), we are wanting them to have help. They need the proper care, we don’t want to see anyone get cold or go without a roof, be cared for, fed, anything like that. We just feel that the downtown core can’t sustain housing like this.”
She has a message for BC Housing.
“BC Housing, the community wants to be heard, their concerns want to be addressed, we fear that what is proposed for 2nd Street is not right for our city.”
Kennedy adds that she supports resources for the individuals who may reside there, just not at that location. Petitions are being collected Wednesday, January 30th, to hand over to the City, which Kennedy adds could land on City Council’s agenda early February. Last we heard, the proposed project aims to accommodate the disabled, individuals with limited mobility, and those who struggle with addiction. There are still many residents in support of this project as well.