The city of Belleville has become concerned about the delays in establishing the homeless shelter, the Grace Inn.
Councillor Kelly McCaw raised the issue at city council Monday night, saying the plan had been brought forward years ago and donations were made but there has been little progress.
Mayor Mitch Panciuk said he understands that contractors have not bid on the project, and he has concerns.
The city donated $10,000 to Grace Inn and Hastings County made a donation as well.
Councillor Chris Malette questioned how it would be possible to staff a homeless shelter 365 days a year with just volunteer staff.
“You can’t have people who can bake cookies staff a homeless shelter,” he said.
Panciuk told council a letter will go out to the Hastings-Quinte social service committee asking for alternatives for helping the homeless during the cold winter months.
He also plans to meet with groups to determine how to deal with the situation in the cold weather.
“We’re going to take steps to look after our citizens. I’m having a meeting with people who work with the vulnerable sector, and Hastings County, to talk about finding a facility, that could be a church, could be a public facility, could be a city facility where we can have somewhere for people to stay in the meantime this winter.”
