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(Image Credit: Matt Ryan/meadowlakeNOW Staff)
municipal matters

Meadow Lake council advances sober living facility proposal

May 26, 2026 | 4:28 PM

Meadow Lake city council has approved a proposed sober living transition house to move to the next stage of the application process.

A public hearing is scheduled for June 22, where residents living within 75 metres of the property will have an opportunity to share their views.

According to the application, the property previously operated as the Waskoosis Safe Shelter. The Meadow Lake Tribal Council (MLTC) is proposing to convert it into a second-stage sober living facility.

The facility would not operate as a detox centre or emergency shelter. Instead, it would support individuals waiting to access treatment or transitioning out of treatment who need a stable environment to continue recovery.

MLTC said the project is intended to address growing concerns surrounding addictions, overdoses, homelessness and mental health challenges.

“One of the largest gaps in the system is the lack of safe and supportive places for individuals while they are waiting for detox or treatment, transitioning between services, or leaving treatment without stable housing and support,” the application stated. “Without proper supports during these critical periods, many individuals relapse, experience homelessness, or return to unsafe environments. This facility helps close that gap by providing a safe, stable and recovery-focused environment.”

Residents staying at the proposed facility would have access to structured sober-living accommodations with 24-hour staffing, counselling, recovery programming, and cultural and land-based healing activities.

The application also stated the facility would operate with structured rules and ongoing supervision while minimizing impacts on the surrounding neighbourhood.

“MLTC is committed to ensuring the property is professionally managed and operated respectfully within the neighborhood,” the application stated. “MLTC respectfully asks the citizens of Meadow Lake and surrounding area for your continued support as we work together to improve wellness, recovery, and community safety for everyone.”

Council is expected to make a final decision on the discretionary use application following the public hearing.

Alyssa.rudolph@pattisonmedia.com