Emergency shelter in Fredericton finally opens

The new emergency shelter in Fredericton opened Saturday night after a series of delays.

"It was into the evening by the time we found out that a solution had been found," said Joan Kingston, chair of the Community Action Group on Homelessness.

"But we were already there as we had been the evening before, and the evening before. Unfortunately people couldn't stay overnight on Friday night but (Saturday) night they did."

According to posts on the city's social media pages, the city and the province came to an agreement late Saturday, which allowed the city to temporarily bypass its zoning policies so the shelter could open at the former bishop's house on Brunswick Street.

The shelter for those living out in the cold was supposed to open Thursday night, but was delayed because of a city zoning issue.

On Friday, amid growing public outcry, council voted to suspend the bylaws so the shelter could open as long as the province provided a letter of indemnity covering the city, said Mayor Mike O'Brien.

It was a long wait for those who have been sleeping outside.

That letter didn't come until Saturday. The shelter opened later that night.

"(Friday night) we'd gone and due to some kind of regulations with insurance they had to close. So there's a little bit of disappointment," said James Oickle, who lives in the tent city and is a homelessness advocate. "But last night everything was gangbusters, it went well."

According to Kingston, the first night was a success.

"Everybody was happy with the arrangement, such as it is. It's not perfect but certainly it's a lovely venue with a nice atmosphere. It's warm and cozy and homelike and the reviews are very positive from the guests that have been there we're just very grateful that we are able to offer this."

Oickle said the services available at the shelter, such as nurses and social workers, made all the difference for guests.

"All my guys look fresher this morning, they all feel fresher," Oickle said.

The Bishop's Court shelter will still have to pass the city's normal process for a zoning change. Neighbours will have a chance to have their say and it will be decided at a planning advisory committee meeting on Dec. 12.

About 35 people in Fredericton are currently sleeping rough. The shelter can house 20.

If the shelter meets all of the conditions, it will stay open until March. Hours of operation are 8 p.m. to 7:30 a.m.