At its Apr. 9 meeting M.D. #124 council considered a report on a Northern Haven Support Society request for annual financial support for an emergency women’s shelter in Slave Lake.
The report, prepared by M.D. manager Allan Winarski, advised council first of all that there are still many questions to be answered about the need for such a facility in Slave Lake. Then there’s the question of whether the M.D.’s mandate includes providing funds for the construction or operation of a shelter.
The most Winarski could recommend was that Northern Haven apply to the province for funding for a needs assessment. He said it was possible that the M.D. could contribute some of its Family and Community Support Services money to a needs assessment.
Asked for their comments, most councillors agreed that the situation was too uncertain to think of committing money for the shelter.
“I support their efforts,” said councillor Darcie Acton. “But I think they need to make their case a little more solid.”
“We want to support them,” added reeve Denny Garratt. “Whether we have the ability or mandate to help them (annually) is another question.” Council passed a motion directing administration to seek more information on the matter.

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