I must commend St. Albert city council on their decision to proceed with bylaw amendments for group homes. While I can respect the idea that other changes will be coming with the Land Use Bylaw work underway, the current practice was too outdated and detrimental to wait any further.
Other jurisdictions have already moved forward with respect to supporting fair rights for people in Canada to live where they wish. In fact, nearly a decade ago the Ontario Human Rights Commission legislated the following: “People should not have to ask permission from anyone, including prospective neighbours before moving in just because of stereotypes relating to grounds under the Ontario Human Right Code.”
St. Albert has long been known for being a less welcoming place for some people, and it is refreshing to see actions on inclusivity start catching up with the times.
Tash Taylor, St. Albert Executive Director, Alberta Network of Public Housing Agencies
