A growing community petition is challenging the District of Squamish’s decision to site temporary modular homes alongside busy public parks and a key pedestrian route used by schoolchildren.
As of writing, more than 290 residents have signed a petition opposing the District of Squamish’s proposed locations for modular housing units under a provincial program called “HEART and HEARTH,” which aims to transition people living in homeless encampments into temporary supported housing.
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The petition, started by resident Maxim Zhernovkov, does not oppose the program outright, but questions where the District plans to put it. The proposed site near X̱wún̓eḵw Park and Junction Park, the petition argues, was chosen without adequate community consultation and could pose safety hazards to children and families who regularly use those areas.
“Our community parks are a vital shared resource, cherished by families, the water sports community, and visitors alike,” wrote one commenter identified as Marko from Squamish. “Moving forward with plans that might compromise public safety or restrict community access would be an unfortunate step away from the inclusive spirit of our town.”
However, the district has said that it has been ‘identified’ as a potential site for temporary modular housing, and that no final decision has been taken.
Another concern is the soon-to-be sole pedestrian route to school for children living in the SEA and SKY development. A local resident Anastasia, warned that the timing could be especially problematic once a temporary developer-operated school bus service is discontinued after a new bridge opens.
“Once that bridge opens and the temporary developer-operated school bus ceases function, this location will be right alongside the only pedestrian route to school that children could take from the SEAandSKY community,” she wrote. “With open drug use on site and the current stretched bylaw and security resources, I can’t see how this is not a recipe for disaster.”
Zhernovkov and others stress that their concerns centre on site selection and process rather than the housing initiative itself. The petition acknowledges that well-integrated social housing, when placed thoughtfully, can benefit communities. Commenters also raised concerns about potential impacts on downtown businesses and Squamish’s appeal as a tourist destination.
