County drops judicial review of homeless shelter by-law enforcement order

Northumberland County is withdrawing its judicial application to review of an enforcement order on Cobourg’s emergency homeless shelter.

Following a special Council meeting Thursday, County Council stated it wants to continue dialogue with the town. “The County stands fully behind the contents of its application and the legal concerns raised—we believe the enforcement approach was flawed,” said Warden Brian Ostrander.

“However, County Council has no interest in prolonged and expensive public disputes, and will therefore pursue no further legal action pertaining to this order. As from the beginning, the County remains fully committed to working with the Town of Cobourg to ensure 310 Division Street continues to operate in a manner that meets the highest standards of safety and care.”

An enforcement order over safety violations under Cobourg’s Emergency Care Establishment By-Law was issued in April.