The Town of Smithers is inviting residents to a public meeting to address concerns and questions about the temporary winter shelter operating at the former Fabrications building. BC Housing and the Bulkley Valley Harm Reduction Society—which is responsible for running the shelter—will participate in the meeting on Monday, November 17th at 6:00 p.m. at 4035 Walnut Drive.
Town officials say recent misinformation has created confusion about the shelter’s purpose and oversight. They emphasize that the Town is not operating the shelter; its involvement is limited to reviewing the building permit to confirm the space meets zoning, building, and safety requirements.
The property is located in the C1 Downtown Commercial zone, where rescue missions are a permitted use under the zoning bylaw. Because the proposal meets the necessary regulations, the Town cannot deny the permit.
The shelter is not a safe-supply facility. It is a temporary winter response site scheduled to operate until March 31st, 2026. It includes eight beds with two staff members on-site at all times, and a maximum occupancy of ten people under building and fire codes. Security patrols already working near the Temporary Overnight Sheltering Area will also monitor the shelter’s surroundings.
Residents are encouraged to submit feedback to Mayor and Council by Sunday, November 16th at 4 p.m., either by email or by dropping off letters at Town Hall.
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