In a compassionate and evidence-based response to the ongoing toxic drug crisis, New Westminster Council has approved an 18-month Temporary Use Permit (TUP) for an existing overdose prevention site in the downtown. This decision provides the necessary time and regulatory support for the service provider and Fraser Health to continue delivering critical, life-saving health services while transitioning to a revised service model.

In a compassionate and evidence-based response to the ongoing toxic drug crisis, New Westminster Council has approved an 18-month Temporary Use Permit (TUP) for an existing overdose prevention site in the downtown. This decision provides the necessary time and regulatory support for the service provider and Fraser Health to continue delivering critical, life-saving health services while transitioning to a revised service model.

The Health Contact Centre has been operating since 2021, addressing urgent health needs in the community and offering a safe and supervised environment for people who use substances.

“Council's support for this health care model reflects compassionate leadership rooted in evidence-based public health practices,” said Mayor Johnstone. “It is health care, first and foremost, supported by Fraser Health and the Public Health Officer. This is about saving lives and supporting a dignified, structured transition to a longer-term solution.”

Overdose prevention sites have been shown to significantly reduce overdose deaths, reduce public drug use, support public safety, and strengthen pathways to recovery. The TUP will allow uninterrupted delivery of these essential services while the operator finalizes plans for a permanent, appropriately zoned facility that can also offer supervised inhalation services to more effectively serve the identified need of the community.

“Maintaining these services without disruption is absolutely critical,” said Johnstone. “This permit gives Fraser Health and the service provider the time needed to continue meeting people where they’re at, while planning for a more effective service model." 

Community First councillors, supported by independent councilor Nadine Nakagawa, worked diligently and respectfully with members of the New West Progressives to fine tune amendments to the Good Neighbour Agreement in the hopes that Council could unanimously support this extension. However, after more than an hour of deliberation at Council and significant compromise leading to agreement on a set of amendments, NWP members of Council still failed to support this life-saving community service.

Council received dozens of items of correspondence from residents and business members in New Westminster, many expressing concern but the majority supporting the issuance of the TUP.

"We have heard community and business concerns” stated Councillor Ruby Campbell. “After much discussion at Council, a strengthened Good Neighbour Agreement between the City, the service provider, and Fraser Health was approved that will alleviate impacts to the surrounding area through positive collaboration."

The site will remain in operation under the TUP for a maximum of 18 months, or until an alternate location is secured - whichever comes first - during which the service provider will work with municipal staff and health partners to complete the relocation process.

Community First remains committed to evidence-based policies that protect lives, reduce harm, and build a healthier, more inclusive community for all.