In the midst of Calgary’s mayoral campaign, safety within the downtown core has emerged as a focal point, particularly highlighted by candidate Sonya Sharp’s proposals regarding the city’s supervised consumption site and homeless shelter. Sharp, representing Ward 1 and campaigning under the Communities First party, emphasized the urgent need for change during a press conference in a barber shop opposite the Sheldon Chumir Health Centre. She declared her intention to urge provincial authorities to shut down the SafeWorks supervised consumption site, citing escalating public safety concerns. Sharp criticized the current dialogue between city and provincial officials, asserting that they have been ineffective and have failed to produce tangible results regarding the management of the site.
Sharp contends that while the operation of the site falls under provincial jurisdiction, the ensuing safety issues are within the city’s responsibility. She pointed out that a thriving downtown requires residents and visitors to feel safe, arguing that fear compromises the goal of establishing a vibrant community where people can live, work, and play. Sharp’s statements echo those made four years prior when the former provincial government initially proposed closing the site. However, no action was taken, and it remains operational. In the latest remarks from Premier Danielle Smith, she has indicated that the province would consider closing the site should the city formally request such a move, emphasizing collaborative governance as crucial for effective solutions.
Despite Sharp’s assertive stance, Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek has cautioned that the decision to close the safe consumption site ultimately rests with the province, given its healthcare designations. Gondek pointed out that closing the site without alternative support mechanisms in place would exacerbate the homeless crisis, leading to increased individuals living on the streets. This sentiment highlights a concern for the well-being of vulnerable populations in any decision-making process regarding the consumption site and associated services. Gondek also mentioned ongoing conversations with government and community agencies about alternative strategies to support those in need without compromising public safety.
The issue of decentralizing the Calgary Drop-In Centre was also discussed during Sharp’s announcement. The centre has expressed a commitment to evolving its services in line with a proposed decentralized model of care, which could improve access for those experiencing homelessness. A representative highlighted ongoing efforts to explore collaborative opportunities among various government levels to enhance service delivery. Karen McPherson from BeTheChangeYYC echoed this perspective, supporting a decentralized approach that aims to distribute resources more evenly across the downtown area. She recognized the challenges faced by outreach volunteers who struggle to meet the rising demands of the community.
Sharp’s proposal has met resistance from fellow mayoral candidate Brian Thiessen, who characterized her plans as reckless and lacking a comprehensive strategy to manage public disorder. He voiced concerns that merely closing the supervised consumption site would shift drug use to public transportation and surrounding neighborhoods without providing adequate alternatives. Thiessen’s apprehension underscores the complexities involved in addressing the interconnected issues of public safety, drug use, and homelessness in Calgary’s downtown area.
As the campaign continues, the city approaches crucial voting day on October 20. The dialogue surrounding downtown safety, supervised consumption sites, and homelessness indicates a broader commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges that urban centers face. Candidates like Sharp are advocating for significant policy changes while balancing public safety with support for vulnerable populations. The various viewpoints reflect the pressing nature of these issues and the need for collaborative efforts in developing effective long-term solutions for Calgary.
