A 14 unit supportive housing development for women and children was given the rubber stamp by Prince George City Council at last night’s (Monday) meeting.
The Phoenix Transition Society is planning on expanding its Harmony House operation to Zelkwas Avenue in the Spruceland neighbourhood — making it the third location in Prince George.
The non-profit offers temporary housing and shelter for pregnant women and new mothers who have experienced and are at risk of abuse and violence.
It gives emotional support, crisis intervention, safety planning, children support, referrals and specialized outreach.
“I have great confidence in what this housing is going to provide in the community,” said Mayor Lyn Hall during the meeting.
“It is substantial and has hit the mark. I think residents will be impressed by the housing when it’s complete.”
The supportive housing unit will be developed with funding support from BC Housing, a report to Council says.
The rezoning application was passed unanimously by Council, however, the application garnered quite a bit of feedback.
Several letters and even a petition with 62 signatures of people not in favor of the project location were submitted to council for consideration.
“We understand the situation these women are in, But now you are going to put this neighbourhood at risk of having undesirable people connected to these women in our neighbourhood,” wrote Amanda Annis.
Many of the residents opposed voiced similar concerns of increased theft and property crime in the area.
All told, close to 100 pieces of correspondence both for and against were sent to the city on the matter.
“We believe that the neighbourhood concerns about safety, drug use and crime are unwarranted and will be non-issues, as the building will be staffed 24/7 and Harmony House has demonstrated success in their existing development,” wrote Ashley Gueret with the Blue Pine Primary Health Care Clinic.
The report says the location is ideal because of the proximity to transit and other amenities.
“The site is a good location for the proposed use, as it is within walking distance of Spruceland Shopping Centre, Rainbow Park, and transit services on 5th Avenue,” reads the report.
“These nearby amenities will provide the women and children staying at Harmony House with convenient access to commercial services, transit, and playspaces for children.”
As the site is currently a vacant lot and underdeveloped, it is considered infill, meaning it avoids sprawl.
Something council pointed out as another positive.
Due to COVID-19 the project will not require a public hearing.
In order to make sure public input is heard, M’akola Development Services will hold an onsite meeting with representatives from the Phoenix Transition Society and the Trinity United Church.