A petition has been circulating in Kelowna, calling for a ban on drug use in a supportive housing project. The petition, which has garnered over 1,000 signatures, is urging the city to take action to prevent drug use in the recently opened Heath House supportive housing complex.
The petition was started by a group of concerned citizens who are worried about the potential negative impact of drug use on the community. They believe that allowing drug use in the supportive housing project will lead to an increase in crime and safety concerns for the surrounding area.
According to the petition, the supportive housing project was intended to provide a safe and stable living environment for vulnerable individuals, not to condone drug use. The petitioners argue that allowing drug use in the complex goes against the original purpose of the project and could have detrimental effects on the residents and the community as a whole.
The petition has gained support from various community members, including local business owners and residents. They are calling on the city to enforce a zero-tolerance policy for drug use in the supportive housing project and to provide adequate resources for residents struggling with addiction.
In response to the petition, the city has stated that they are aware of the concerns and are working with the supportive housing operator to address them. They have also emphasized the importance of providing support and resources for residents struggling with addiction, rather than simply banning drug use.
The supportive housing project, which opened in March, has faced criticism and opposition from some community members since its inception. However, proponents of the project argue that it is a necessary step towards addressing homelessness and providing support for vulnerable individuals in the community.
The petition will be presented to the city council in the coming weeks, and it remains to be seen how they will address the concerns raised by the petitioners. In the meantime, the debate over drug use in supportive housing projects continues, with both sides advocating for the safety and well-being of the community.
