The Mustard Seed's former Champion Centre (CHAT News file photo)

By Brendan Miller

Mustard Seed won’t open sober living facility on North Railway Street

Jul 6, 2023 | 4:43 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – The Mustard Seed will not be opening a sober living facility following a decision by the city’s subdivision and appeal board.

In April, the City of Medicine Hat’s municipal planning commission ruled in favour of the Mustard Seed’s proposal to use the Champion Centre location on North Railway Street to build a facility that would offer bedrooms for up to 10 people seeking an environment free of alcohol and substances.

However, business owners in the area filed an appeal against the permit in May. In June, after hearing arguments from both sides, the city’s subdivision and appeal board sided with the business owners.

In April several businesses CHAT News spoke with shared their concerns around the growing crime and drug use on the street.

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Many told CHAT News they support the Mustard Seed’s efforts but not the location of the facility, noting it’s in close proximity to three bars, a community wellness centre and a children’s dance studio.

They also said the city did not have a good neighbourhood plan to deal with potential problems when the facility was originally approved.

Andrew McLean with the Mustard Seed says they are now exploring their options for the building while still providing support to the communities most vulnerable population.

“Provide help for those who may need meals, who may need laundry services, clothing, health and wellness services ranging from connections with doctors, other medical support because it’s our mission to provide hope to those who are vulnerable,” says McLean

The Mustard Seed says they are working with other social service agencies to find alternative support for those people seeking to transition into sober living.

“It may mean connecting them to supports through Medicine Hat Community Housing who can assist them in ways to move to the next stage. It may mean connecting persons to additional support services in our community such as mental health services they may need to get into the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital for additional support,” explains McLean.

The Mustard Seed has up to 30 days to appeal the decision to the Court of Appeal on a question of law or jurisdiction.