Amherst considers zoning options for emergency shelters and supervised consumption sites.

The Town of Amherst is considering zoning changes to determine where new emergency shelters and supervised consumption sites could be located. On Monday, town staff sought public feedback on definitions for these facilities and their permissible locations. No current applications for supervised consumption sites or new emergency shelters are pending.

Supervised consumption sites, which allow individuals to use controlled substances under medical supervision, require federal approval. These sites are intended to reduce overdose deaths. Tina Gibson, a downtown resident, was the only public attendee at the meeting. She opposed allowing either facility in the downtown area, expressing concern that such developments would harm the downtown core.

The town is not prohibited from restricting these land uses under the Municipal Government Act. A letter from Nova Scotia Health emphasized that supervised consumption sites should be situated near healthcare services. Public Health also advocated for shelters to be located close to essential services. However, the health authority did not endorse specific locations, instead providing evidence on definitions and zoning principles.

Amherst currently operates one emergency shelter, managed by the Cumberland Homelessness and Housing Support Association. This shelter, located on Prince Arthur Street, would remain permitted even if zoning rules change. Town Chief Administrative Officer Jason MacDonald emphasized the goal of locating new shelters in ways that assist those in need without negatively impacting residents and businesses.

Despite this, some residents have called for the shelter’s relocation. A petition with 337 signatures, including support from both town and county residents, was presented to the council in September. Gibson supports the petition, citing increased drug use and discarded paraphernalia in public spaces as concerns.

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