Yellowknife (Sep 10/04) - City council has finally paved the way for a psychiatric care facility on Finlayson Drive.

The facility applied for a development permit last fall but it was put on hold at the request of council, who wanted more information and assurances that the home was sanctioned by the Yellowknife Health and Social Services Authority.

Four clients are currently housed in the duplex home, located at 6217 Finlayson Dr., but the facility can't take in any more until the development permit is approved.

"We are here to try and help people be individuals," said Rob MacIntosh, with Northern People First Ltd., who added that "dealing with God's children isn't easy."

As in similar cases throughout the city where special care facilities have tried to set up roots in residential neighbourhoods, the reception has been less than welcoming.

City Hall received two letters from residents protesting the group home, including one where some neighbours admit it's a case of "NIMBY" or "Not in my backyard."

Another neighbour across the street wrote that they wanted reassurances from the city that the group home wouldn't be housing suspected or convicted felons.

Worried about property values

Gerry Borschneck told council, Tuesday, he was worried the home would negatively affect the property value of the other half of the duplex he owns next door.

MacIntosh said none of the current clients have criminal records or are sexual predators and all are supervised by qualified nurses and staff.

"I think people should be proud of what we do in the community instead of shipping them all south," said MacIntosh.

Ultimately, council sided with the care facility and moved the development permit forward for approval at the next council meeting, Monday, Sept. 13.

"I found just about every fear brought before us is unfounded," said Coun. Bob Brooks.

"I don't have any problem with this recommendation."