Hearing in Cobourg Concludes Cornerstone Not Exempt from Bylaw

Pete Fisher
5 months ago
• Categories: Local

Cornerstone Family Prevention Violence Centre will not be exempt from the Emergency Care Establishment bylaw.

But, they will have certain exemptions to the bylaw.

The Emergency Care Establishment (ECE) bylaw was implemented on March 28, 2024.

The ECE is an institutional use that provides a means of immediate, temporary accommodation and assistance for a short-term period, generally less than one week, for the majority of residents.

The ECE carries a number of stipulations that must be enforced.

Cornerstone Family Violence and Prevention Centre appealed the bylaw and a hearing was held at Victoria Hall in Cobourg on Thursday, July 25, 2024.

The gallery was nearly full with people including at times the CAO, Fire Chief, Mayor, Deputy Mayor, councillors and others in the council chambers that was used for the hearing.

Representatives from the Town of Cobourg along with Cornerstone pleaded their case why they either should or shouldn’t be exempt from the bylaw and it was up to Hearings Officer Neha Chugh to make a decision.

Chugh stated that Cornerstone was not exempt from the bylaw, but certain section of the bylaw could be.

“I think it’s very clear the main intent and purpose (of the bylaw) is the health, safety, welfare, well-being of persons, protection of persons and property.”

But Chugh added that there is a second intent and purpose is also important.

“Maintaining a collaborative relationship with the town of Cobourg. Cornerstone has enjoyed a 41-year relationship with the Town of Cobourg providing a essential service. So this collaborative relationship must go forward “

“It is my opinion that Cornerstone does fit within the ECE bylaw because domestic violence is an emergency affecting our community.”

“Women and children who are victims of domestic violence are needing emergency situations and that is why Cornerstone is open 24-7.”

Chugh said not once in 41-year has there ever been an issue with Cornerstone where, health, safety and well-being has come into question by the Town of Cobourg.

Cornerstone also has Provincial support nearing $1.5 million with Provincial and Board oversight.

But with her decision Chugh said added that, “more energy and investment needs to be spent on crafting specific conditions for Cornerstone.”

Chugh called upon both the representatives from the Town and Cornerstone to come up with exemptions to the ECE bylaw for Cornerstone.

The hearing was adjourned to a give both parties a chance to meet and come up with mutual exemptions.

When that is completed a draft will be compiled and a closed session of Cobourg Council will meet.

Followed by the continuation of the Hearing expected in September.