Input on the permanent shelter collected from May 10 to June 13 was analyzed and compiled into a community report and posted to The City’s website today.
During the input process, information was shared about previously used site criteria and participants were asked whether they agree with each, and why or why not. They were also asked if there were other criteria to consider, and additional input on areas outside the site criteria. Input was gathered through an online survey, in-person sessions, and/or email:
- Between May 25 and June 10, 2022, an online survey was conducted with 723 participants sharing their input.
- Seven in-person input opportunities, which were held on June 8, 9 and 10, saw 101 participants.
- More than 80 emails were received from citizens and stakeholders sharing their input about the future permanent shelter in Red Deer. Emails received up to 8 a.m. on June 13 were included in report.
In summary, the top broad themes we heard across all input activities were as follows:
- Impact to surrounding neighbourhoods
- Improved integrated services
- Move forward with long-term approach (consideration of location and financial impacts)
- Continued community involvement through input opportunities, information sharing and opportunity for community to support in long-term success.
The top site-based themes we heard across all input activities were as follows:
- Impacts to surrounding land use is the most important consideration when making a decision about the location for a future permanent shelter in Red Deer.
- Impacts to people, specifically as it relates to “citizen safety” for everyone in the community, must be considered.
- Residential neighbourhoods should not be considered.
- Protection of recreational spaces and natural habitats
- Financial compensation should be considered for those who are directly impacted by the location of the future permanent shelter.
- Accountability must be a priority.
Council will review the report and consider next steps in the site selection process. Administration will recommend a Council Ah Hoc Committee to decide site criteria based on Council and community input and technical expertise, then develop a site criteria evaluation matrix which will guide the site selection process. The full report to Council can be found on Council’s meeting site.
Thank you to all citizens and community partners who provided input on the permanent shelter. The full What We Heard report can be found within the Council report and on all the Permanent Shelter webpages under resources. The direct link to the What We Heard report is here.