Chilliwack Council to determine fate of Margaret Avenue shelter
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CHILLIWACK — Chilliwack City Council is expected to deliberately look past one of its own policies to extend the operation of a temporary shelter at 46146 Margaret Avenue. The shelter which is managed by Ruth and Naomi’s Mission, provided much-needed beds last winter and spring, accommodating individuals experiencing homelessness
In November 2022 and then again last fall, the Council made the decision to suspend enforcement of a Zoning Bylaw and the B.C. Building Code, allowing the temporary shelter to operate under those terms for six months.
When the council meets Tuesday, city staff are recommending councillors allow for the continuation of the practice for another six months. BC Housing has already guaranteed the funding for the shelter’s operation through the winter months.
City staff report that it is expected that existing shelters will continue to operate at full capacity over the winter. Staff believe those taking advantage of the beds operated on Margaret Avenue, would otherwise try to build makeshift camps elsewhere in the city.
