Cobourg property owners oppose emergency shelter

The Town of Cobourg purchased a former retirement home at 310 Division St to expand the town’s only emergency shelter of 4 rooms and 22 individuals to 47 rooms and include transitional housing.

In response, business and property of nearby properties ask for pause, more public consultation, and the safeguarding of Cobourg’s charm and security:

Unfortunately, vandalism, theft, explicit drug use, trespassing, intimidation, dumping (of) garbage, public urination and defecation, as well as verbal and physical assaults, continue to be daily occurrences on our properties and at our businesses — more so than in any other neighbourhood in Cobourg, or likely Northumberland County

we are genuinely concerned about the state of chaos that has become commonplace in our neighbourhood and extending into the downtown over the last four years, as well as the lack of meaningful progress to improve these issues.

Over the last four years, as a result of the opioid crisis, Transition House changed their model of care, becoming a low-barrier emergency shelter and drastically, negatively altering the neighbourhood.

Jeff Crowley, owner of Cobourg Orthopaedic & Sports Injury Clinic – COSIC, 304 Division St. and 310 Division St.

We have found discarded substance paraphernalia, garbage, weapons and personal belongings. We have been accosted by individuals in mental health crisis or under the influence of substances.

We have been woken up in the middle of the night to fights in the middle of the road, to individuals being injured by vehicles. We have (had) individuals bang on our building, and yell and scream at the top of their lungs.

We are not saying that the residents (who) move into 310 Division St., have been or will be individuals that we have had interactions with, but we are concerned that the relocation of Transition House to 310 Division St. – and the vision to expand the number of accommodation spaces and increased service delivery, will increase the number of instances and interactions impacting our safety and security, and our quality of life.

Chloe Craig, whose family owns 8 affordable rental units in the property next door to 310 Division

The proposed acquisition of 310 Division Street is particularly troubling given the current challenges faced by our downtown core. Increased crime rates, violence, garbage, loitering in business entryways, and the presence of drug paraphernalia are issues that are already affecting the well-being of our community. Accelerating such changes without proper consultation raises concerns about the accelerated degradation of the downtown core in Cobourg.

I understand the urgency of addressing homelessness, but it is equally important to consider the impact on the existing community. This decision should be a conversation, not a directive. I urge the Council to ensure that the voices of homeowners and business owners are heard and that their concerns are given due consideration in this significant decision-making process.

David Battersby correspondence

By turning this building into a shelter, you are forever changing the landscape of Division Street. Residents and retailers are already struggling with drug and crime issues created by Transition House, etc. are now being forced to reckon with reduced housing values due to increased violence, and growing drug issues created by the permanent placement of this facility. It’s simply unbelievable that you would purchase a building on behalf of the shelter and not include the town in the conversation.

Ann and James Grozier

it’s crucial to consider alternative uses for this premium space. Rather than converting it into a shelter, the location could be utilized for income-based rentals, dedicated units for downtrodden seniors, or much-needed affordable housing. These options would contribute to addressing the broader housing challenges in Northumberland County, ensuring a more inclusive and sustainable community. 

Change.org petition by David B

January 31, 2024 – Recent Cobourg transplant from Toronto concerned how it “affects the fabric of our community”

I am writing to you as a concerned member of the Cobourg community, deeply troubled by the proposed development of 310 Division Street into a massive 12,000 sq. ft. lowbarrier shelter. I ask that this letter be added to the Jan 31st council meeting as we urgently seek your support to look at options for the Low Barrier shelter; options that provide accountability and direction.

…

The current approach of grouping individuals facing various challenges, from addiction to mental health issues, into a one-size-fits-all low-barrier model has proven to be ineffective. Cities like London, ON, have successfully implemented segmented and classified systems to address the diverse needs of those experiencing homelessness. There are individuals within Northumberland living in their cars, seniors struggling to afford housing, and families in need of support. These individuals could benefit from a shelter system that isn’t overwhelmed by those facing addiction and mental health challenges.

Our community has witnessed firsthand the destructive impacts associated with the clients of low-barrier shelters, and it has taken a toll on the economic vitality of our town. The fear induced by ongoing criminal activity, defecation on private properties, mental health outbursts, and a general sense of insecurity has made the town less inviting. Placing the proposed 45-room facility in the heart of Cobourg is a recipe for further division within our community.

We implore you to consider the voice of the residents of Cobourg and Northumberland County. Our mental health, safety, and well-being need to be prioritized in these discussions. The impact of this development goes beyond municipal and county lines; it affects the fabric of our community and requires collective attention and collaborative solutions.

As we express our concerns, we also recognize the complexity of this issue. However, it is crucial to ensure that the development aligns with the best interests of the community. We request your support in amplifying our concerns, urging a comprehensive review of this proposal, and seeking alternative solutions that benefit everyone involved.

Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to your support in safeguarding the charm and security of our town.

Resident Cindy McAdam Battersby, who “owns a 5,000-square foot home with a sprawling backyard and outdoor pool in Cobourg, Ont”