Steinbach City Council is moving ahead with a plan that would let temporary supportive housing be built in several residential and commercial areas across the city, with a public hearing set for June 2, 2026 at 7:35 p.m. at City Hall.
The proposed By-Law 2275 would create a formal definition of transitional housing in the city’s zoning rules and allow it as a conditional use in seven zones: RMD, RHD, R-MX, C1, C2, C3, and C-MX. This comes after the non-profit group The INN (Initiative for Neighbourly Nights) applied to the city to develop a 12-room, 30-bed facility at 447 Main Street for people moving from unstable situations into permanent homes.
Council gave first reading to the bylaw on April 21, 2026. The INN’s proposed facility would offer nursing care, wraparound services, and stays of up to 18 months, with an estimated cost of around $1.75 to $2 million. A December 2024 letter signed by 14 local churches, including Southland Church, urged council to address homelessness and backed The INN’s work. Southland Church has committed funding for the facility’s operating costs.
Deputy Mayor Michael Zwaagstra and Mayor Earl Funk have said the conditional use process ensures public input and transparency for significant projects. The INN, however, has argued that requiring a conditional use permit creates financial risk and could lead to discrimination against future residents. Residents who live within 100 metres of potential development sites have been notified and can voice support or objections at the upcoming hearing.
The hearing takes place in council chambers at 225 Reimer Avenue. More information is available through city planner Lacey Gaudet at the public notice.
