Politicians clash over halfway house

By RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star StaffApr 27 2007 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/

There’s some diverse views among Vernon politicians over the controversial issue of halfway houses.
Corrections Canada is considering proposals from the Salvation Army and the Okanagan Halfway House Society to establish a facility for parolees in Vernon. “There is a need for a facility because where will they go?” said Coun. Jack Gilroy, adding that there are parolees currently in the community but there is no structure for them. “If there is a proper house and supervision, it can work.” Vernon’s former halfway house was closed after the murder of 75-year-old Bill Abramenko in 2004. Eric Fish, who has been charged with the death, was missing from the facility at the time of the incident.

Corrections Canada officials have stated that a process has been followed to address local safety concerns, and there would be restrictions on what kind of parolees can’t stay at the new 14-bed halfway house. “We will get to say who comes here,” said Gilroy of a review panel. Mayor Wayne Lippert says the city would like some input on a halfway house coming to Vernon, but he believes there is a need for such a service. “We have parolees here wandering around and there is no direction for them.” However, Coun. Pat Cochrane isn’t sure if Vernon requires a facility for parolees. “Based on the past problems, it will be a challenge to get public support,” he said. If there has to be a facility, Cochrane’s preference is it only host parolees from the North Okanagan.

“They shouldn’t transplant hardened criminals from other parts of the country here,” he said. Officials with the Kelowna-based Okanagan Halfway House Society would not comment at this time about their proposal.
Sean Wong, with the Salvation Army, says the church has expertise and skill when it comes to halfway houses. “The Salvation Army does this across the country.” Wong insists a Salvation Army facility would involve the police and services that allow parolees to reintegrate into the community. In terms of a location, Wong says one has not been selected, and he doesn’t believe the downtown church site would be in the running. “It is not the most ideal location,” said Wong, who used to be a parole officer in Ontario. Corrections Canada will announce the successful bidder May 14.