Surrey's south end is facing a contentious proposal for its first complex care housing site, which has drawn significant opposition from local residents. Fraser Health, B.C. Housing, and the City of Surrey are working together on a project that aims to create 590 homes and shelter spaces across various neighborhoods. Of these, 290 units are planned for the south end, including 200 affordable rental units, 40 supportive housing studio units, and 20 complex care studio units located at 15238 19 Ave. and 1880 152 St.

Christine Boyle, the minister of housing and municipal affairs, emphasized the importance of addressing diverse housing needs. "People have different housing needs, and we’re working hard to help everyone find a place to live that suits them," she stated during the announcement of the initiative in September. Boyle added that the project aims to provide affordable housing close to jobs and loved ones while connecting individuals to necessary support services.

Despite the government's intentions, many residents are voicing their concerns. At a recent Surrey city council meeting, dozens of community members wore T-shirts and carried signs opposing the project. They also staged a protest at one of the proposed sites, which is near a shopping mall, library, park, and various businesses.

Lionel Wilson, a local resident and member of several coalitions against the project, expressed his concerns. "We have more questions than the B.C. Housing proposal has answers," he said. Wilson criticized the plan to mix complex care with supportive housing, stating that the term "complex care" raises alarms. He believes the project could attract drug users to an area close to schools and amenities.

Wilson clarified that his group supports safe social housing but opposes the potential inclusion of a safe-use site. "We are very, very supportive of safe social housing. The concern we have is the model. We believe it’s flawed. It’s not the right model," he said. He noted that about 7,000 people have signed a petition against the proposal, reflecting widespread concern about the public consultation process.

Surrey Councillor Linda Annis echoed Wilson's sentiments, stating her support for affordable housing but not for complex care housing. "The track record of projects that allow or accommodate on-site drug use amount to a neighborhood nightmare," Annis said. She emphasized the need for the community to reject projects that include drug use in any form, citing a dismal track record from the province and its agencies.

In contrast, some community members support the housing initiative. Pattie Petrala, a longtime resident and community activist, believes there is a "silent majority" in favor of the proposal. She argues that misinformation is fueling fear in the community and suggests that the city and province should provide clearer information about the project.

"‘Housing first’ has proven itself to be invaluable globally," Petrala stated. She urged decision-makers to showcase quantifiable results and share anecdotal outcomes to alleviate community fears.

Wilson acknowledged the need for better communication from the city and province, noting that similar supportive housing sites in other municipalities have faced strong opposition. He and other residents plan to meet with Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke this week, hoping to address their concerns before the city council votes on the proposal.