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Calgary committee to make ‘symbolic’ vote on supervised consumption site closure
Calgary's executive committee debated a motion to symbolically support closing the Safeworks supervised consumption site amid concerns over crime and addiction treatment alternatives.
- On Feb. 3, 2026, Calgary's executive committee will consider a motion by Landon Johnston asking the city to symbolically support the UCP's pledge to shutter the supervised consumption site, though health care is provincial responsibility.
- Proponents argue the site has increased visible drug use and crime in the Beltline, saying it harms businesses and residents, while past Calgary city council rejected a similar motion from Ward 13 councillor Dan McLean in October.
- Opened in fall 2017 as a pilot, the supervised consumption site logged over 12,500 visits in Q3 2025 with 542 monthly visitors, while a city document describes limited replacement services.
- The committee's vote would determine if the motion advances to Calgary city council for review, but Mayor Jeromy Farkas opposed it, citing insufficient time to review recent amendments and calling for a clear plan.
- Health experts warn closing the Sheldon Chumir site next year without a replacement could increase overdose deaths, as Elaine Hyshka said it may strain the healthcare system.
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12 Articles
12 Articles
Coverage Details
Total News Sources12
Leaning Left5Leaning Right1Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution56% Left
Bias Distribution
- 56% of the sources lean Left
56% Left
L 56%
C 33%
11%
Factuality
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