Plans underway for Timmins shelter for women and children fleeing violence

Timmins city council has rezoned a 48-acre parcel of land on Government Road for a shelter for women and children fleeing violence.

Timmins city council has agreed to rezone a parcel of land on Government Road for a women’s shelter and transitional homes.

The 48-acre property, including a large two-storey home, is in the west end of the city. Fort Albany First Nation has secured funding to establish a shelter for women and children fleeing domestic violence.

“I think they do an excellent job in terms of what they … and I think it’s a needed service in the community,” said Steve Black, Timmins city councillor.

Will be contentious

“I just have more of a challenge that I know it’s going to be a contentious issue to some degree for the residents in that area -- maybe not for all, but for some, based on complaints.”

“I just am not sure our council process gives adequate time for public feedback from the time they get to chance to review a report to us approving the report 24 hours later,” Black added.

The shelter will have a maximum of eight clients and three employees. A building will be constructed with four residential dwelling units to be used as transitional housing.

CTV News contacted Fort Albany First Nation for comment, but has yet to receive a response.