Saskatoon residents question the new 60-bed shelter site on 31st Street E., citing lack of consultation as homelessness in the city reaches record levels.
Saskatoon Residents Voice Concerns Over Shelter Location
Project Announcement Raises Debate
A permanent 60-bed homeless shelter is set to be built on 31st Street East, just off Idylwyld Drive in Saskatoon. The decision, finalized by the provincial government after a recommendation from the city, has sparked pushback from nearby residents who say they were not consulted.
Neighbourhood Concerns Surface
Ty Johnston, communications coordinator for the Caswell Hill Community Association, said the shelter’s location was chosen without input from the group. While the project technically falls outside Caswell Hill’s boundary, Johnston stressed the neighbourhood would feel the greatest impact. “We truthfully still have more questions than answers,” he said, pointing to concerns over safety, wellness supports, and long-term housing solutions.
City and Province on Planning Role
Lesley Anderson, director of planning and development for the City of Saskatoon, confirmed the decision was made jointly with the province. While the city reviewed multiple potential sites, officials said public consultation was not held before recommending the 31st Street location. The province will now oversee construction and coordination efforts.
Shelter Operator Identified
The Mustard Seed, a Calgary-based non-profit with operations in seven Western Canadian cities, will operate the shelter. The group currently runs the temporary shelter on Pacific Avenue, which opened in April and will transition to the new facility once complete. Chief Impact Officer Brent Trask said community engagement is underway, adding, “We will be happy to serve wherever the city, province, and citizens agree is appropriate.”
Residents Seek Broader Input
Some long-term residents, including Caswell Hill’s Joanna Latimer, argue the province should not have the final say. She questioned why voting was not considered and suggested distributing shelters more evenly across Saskatoon. “The city does not just have a homeless issue on the west side,” she said.
Homelessness on the Rise
The debate comes as Saskatoon faces a worsening homelessness crisis. A point-in-time count on October 8, 2024, recorded 1,499 people experiencing homelessness—nearly triple the 550 identified in 2022. City officials are developing a Saskatoon Homelessness Action Plan, currently under review and expected to reach council this fall.
Next Steps for Community Dialogue
An information session about the proposed shelter will be held at City Hall on September 15 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. City representatives and the Mustard Seed are expected to address questions and gather feedback from residents.
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