Battleford council approved Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch’s discretionary use application request to establish a group home for six youth, with a few conditions, at its meeting Monday night. (Angela Brown/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Angela Brown

Home for youth

Council gives nod to Eagle Nest Youth Ranch application for six youth

Jun 18, 2019 | 8:47 AM

Town council has given the Eagle its wings for a test flight in Battleford.

In a 3-1 vote, council approved a discretionary use application for Eagle’s Nest Youth Ranch for a residential care home at 61 28 St. W. for six youth. Three conditions came with the approval; the organization build a privacy fence around the property, establish a neighbourhood advisory committee and reapply for the discretionary use request after 18 months. The advisory committee will meet with management to address any concerns.

The organization is already permitted to accommodate four youth.

“We want to be fair to all parties and we strive to be a community of inclusion. To go against that didn’t feel right,” Deputy Mayor Susan McLean Tady said following council.

During the meeting, Coun. Kevin Russell was the only member opposed, citing a preference to take “baby steps” and examine how the project makes out with four youth initially, which wouldn’t require a discretionary use permit to proceed.

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Several residents opposed to the project previously spoke at council and submitted letters to address their concerns.

Council requested the non-profit organization meet a number of criteria, including to provide a parking plan so neighbours still have adequate access to street parking. As well, the residence would need to be modified to accommodate six beds for the youth.

Program director Scott Dakiniewich said in his report the youth will be supervised and attend school during the day. Youth between the ages of 10 and 21 are accepted to the program.

Coun. Doug Laing said Eagle’s Nest indicated it would comply with a list of provisions.

“I’m having a hard time finding reasons not to approve it,” Laing said.

Councillors Judy Pruden and Gordon Yarde were absent from the meeting. Mayor Ames Leslie left the chambers during the vote and discussion due to a conflict of interest. His parents own a seniors’ personal care home on the same street.

McLean Tady acknowledged it wasn’t an easy decision for council.

“It’s been a real struggle to come to a resolution,” she said.

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angela.brown@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @battlefordsNOW