Following Wednesday’s executive committee meeting, a permanent emergency shelter in the City of Regina seems likely.

City council voted to fund a $7.5-million plan to create the shelter in what is described as “an ideal location with easy access to community service, core city areas and public transit.”

The location has yet to be revealed, but the city currently has an offer for it. That means that the city council will decide on June 12 whether to fulfil the option, which expires on June 19.

The city currently leases space at the Nest Health Centre, which has 55 beds available for those experiencing homelessness. The lease expires in the summer of 2025. 

If the purchase is approved, the city will pay $1.5 million of the project’s cost, with the provincial and federal governments chipping in $3 million as a forgivable loan and grant.

On top of the cost, the city will focus on engaging the public by “sharing information on the facility and responding to concerns to ensure safety, security and cleanliness.”