Photo Courtesy EverythingGP Staff

By Tanner Smith

City of Grande Prairie

City releases statement regarding alleged Eastlink Centre “homelessness showering” and “flashing”

Mar 23, 2023 | 3:43 PM

The City of Grande Prairie has provided a statement regarding an alleged, incident of flashing at the Eastlink Centre and reports that city staff is directing individuals experiencing homelessness to use city pool facilities to shower.

Corporate Communication Director Philip Cooper said in a release:

“The City does not specifically direct individuals experiencing homelessness to use the City’s pool facilities to shower, however, it’s important to note that anyone can use City showers. In addition to the showers at Eastlink, there are also showers available at the Street Outreach Centre Day Program (St. Lawrence Centre). Wapiti House, Odyssey House, and the Youth Emergency Shelter also have shower access for clients utilizing the program or shelter. Access to showers and bathrooms for the vulnerable sector is identified on the city website: Street Survival Guide pages 7 and 8.”

In the same release, Cooper did also provide a summary regarding the alleged “flashing” incident:

“On March 14, staff were approached by an individual seeking clarity on which change room to use, and staff provided direction to the individual accordingly. The city creates a space in all municipal facilities that is non-discriminatory and accommodates gender diversity.”

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“The individual complied with staff and used the change room that had been identified for their use, however, the individual was later found using a different change room. Staff immediately responded and the individual was addressed by supervisory staff. The individual complied and returned to the space that had been identified. When the individual asked if they could swim naked, the supervisory staff referenced that swimming naked is not permitted and that appropriate swimwear must be worn. The individual complied. Later during their visit, the individual again returned to a different change room and used a shower stall with the curtain partially open. The supervisor staff addressed the individual immediately. The individual complied and returned to the previously identified change room. The individual then left the facility.”

“RCMP were not called to attend the site nor was a report filed to RCMP. Post-incident processes are being followed, staff has been de-briefed and supports have been provided. The city takes the safety of patrons and staff very seriously and acknowledges this situation could have made people uncomfortable. Based on the information which is available to the City, the City believes that staff appropriately handled this situation under all the circumstances”