A group opposing the temporary modular housing (TMH) for homeless people at 7300 Elmbridge Way is hosting a forum Sunday to deliver their message to the public.
The forum, named “Charity & Safety,” will take place at the Vancouver Sheraton Airport Hotel from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Every attendee is required to pay a $20 venue fee, according to a spokesperson for the “7300 Group.”
Share the thoughts and vision on Temporary Modular Housing in Richmond BC.Join us 2:00PM Sunday Mar 18,2018 at Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel. We care more and let’s think more deeply.@BC_Housing @Richmond_BC @Harold_Steves pic.twitter.com/TjNc8FbxZW
— 7300Elmbridge (@7300Elmbridge) March 15, 2018
“The purpose is to solve the problem of information asymmetry between people supporting and opposing the project, and to let both parties talk through the same channel,” said the spokesperson.
“We want people to know that, opponents are not ‘cold-bloods’ who worry about house prices. We are more concerned about whether the government is performing their duty and spending taxpayer’s money appropriately.”
Some speakers from the group will give a speech providing information about why they think TMH is not the best way to solve the homeless problem in Richmond.
De Whalen, chair of the Richmond Poverty Response Committee who has expressed strong support for the project, said she is planning to go, although she is “not sure if it is worth paying $20 to attend.”
“I hope the information that’s going to be passed around is factual, not fear-mongering. That’s my fear,” said Whalen.
“I’m just going to be an observer and listener. I want to understand where the anti-group is coming from, why they are so opposed, what they are basing their information on and why the fear. That’s what I don’t understand.”
Whalen said she hopes the opposition group will also listen to people supporting the project while seeking information on “exactly what this housing is all about and who will be living there."
Coun. Chak Au said he encourages events like this that allow people to communicate with each other.
“I think it’s good. Any opportunities and channels to have a dialogue and more of an understanding about the issue, to exchange opinions, is good. We need to talk more,” said Au.
The City of Richmond said it is a citizens’ event so city staff will not attend. No councillor has confirmed to appear at the forum.
