While Belleville’s Salvation Army is expanding its Bridge Street West location, including a larger kitchen to make more meals, it does not necessarily mean there will be more people at the facility.
This week, concerned residents in the area were circulating a petition opposing the Army’s plans because of worries about increased noise, vandalism and traffic.
But sources to Quinte News indicate that while there are plans for a larger kitchen to make more meals, they won’t all be served there.
The Salvation Army would continue to serve the same dinners it always has at the church.
But, meals for the vulnerable population would be delivered to a more central location, however, it is not known where that would be.
The Army’s Pinnacle Street location where they currently serve meals to the homeless and those in need is scheduled to close once the Bridge Street expansion is complete.
The organization has already applied for a building permit for the expansion and because it is zoned Community Facility, it does not have to go through a public process.
That did not stop about 30 local residents from attending a Committee of Adjustment meeting this week to discuss the plans only to learn the committee has nothing to do with the issue.
The Salvation Army said earlier this week it will be holding an information session in the near future to share their plans with the public though officials have not yet set a date.
