Paul Tavares in front of Belleville Library. He is traveling the province raising funds and awareness regarding homelessness. (Photo: Quinte News)
RELEASE FROM CITY OF BELLEVILLE ENTITLED PARAMETERS FOR ACTIVATING CITY OVERNIGHT WARMING CENTRE Sunday February 17
The release followed an overnight protest Saturday in front of the Belleville Public Library. Protestors believe the temperature regulations are too strict.
Belleville City Council approved $50,000 for an overnight warming centre which could be accessed during harsh winter conditions for the remainder of the season. City staff proceeded to define the centre location and operations following parameters set by current municipal standard practices. The target temperatures to be met before activation are -15C before wind chill or -20C with wind chill, or during significant weather events such as a severe snowstorm. The decision to activate the warming centre is made 24 hours in advance and on Fridays for the weekend ahead to permit time to arrange security and for staff preparations. Although not an ideal solution, the action was taken in an effort to address the need within our community for the remainder of this season ending April 10, 2019.
When the warming centre is activated it is in the entrance atrium, at the Belleville Public Library at 254 Pinnacle Street in downtown Belleville and remains open from 8:00 p.m. until 8:00 a.m. Fire Chief Mark MacDonald, as head of the City’s Emergency Management Team, determines when the warming centre will be open based upon the specified criteria. When activated the information is shared through the media, the City social media channels and supporting organizations throughout the community.
The question has been raised as to whether the fire stations can accommodate individuals needing shelter. Unfortunately this is not possible, only the designated warming centre at the library is accessible for this purpose when the criteria outlined above is met.
The City recognizes the need to have a warm, safe location available. This is not a shelter as the Grace Inn will be when in operation but these measures have been put in place to provide temporary assistance for the next few weeks.
