Oxford County council has ignited a firestorm of controversy after approving a closed-door decision to purchase the former YMCA building on Dundas Street in Woodstock for use as a homeless centre. The deal, which was finalized without public consultation, has left many community members and local leaders feeling blindsided and betrayed.
Secretive Deal Sparks Outrage
According to sources close to the matter, the council voted unanimously during an in-camera session to acquire the property for an undisclosed sum. The building, which had been vacant for several years, was previously operated by the YMCA before it closed due to financial difficulties. The decision was made public only after the purchase was completed, prompting accusations of a lack of transparency.
“We were completely blindsided,” said a local resident who wished to remain anonymous. “There was no public discussion, no chance for residents to voice their opinions. This is a major decision that affects the entire community, and it was made behind closed doors.”
Community Reactions Mixed
While some residents support the initiative, citing the urgent need for homeless services in the region, others are concerned about the location and the process. The former YMCA is situated in a residential area, and nearby homeowners worry about potential impacts on property values and neighborhood safety.
“I understand the need to help the homeless, but this should have been done openly,” said another resident. “The council should have held public hearings and considered alternative locations. This feels like a betrayal of public trust.”
Local business owners also expressed frustration. “We were not informed about this at all,” said a shopkeeper on Dundas Street. “The council needs to be more transparent about its plans. This affects our businesses and the community as a whole.”
Council Defends Decision
Oxford County council members have defended their actions, arguing that the purchase was necessary to address the growing homelessness crisis and that confidentiality was required to secure the deal. “We had to act quickly to acquire this property before another buyer stepped in,” said a council spokesperson. “The need for a homeless centre is critical, and this building is ideally suited for that purpose.”
The council has promised to hold public meetings in the coming weeks to discuss the plans and address concerns. However, critics say the damage has already been done. “Trust has been broken,” said a local activist. “The council needs to rebuild that trust by being transparent and inclusive in all future decisions.”
The former YMCA building is expected to undergo renovations before opening as a homeless centre later this year. The exact timeline and budget for the project have not yet been disclosed.
