The minister responsible can’t say whether housing the tenants currently living at Horizons 106 in the community will result in cost-savings, but he believes it will be the best cost-option.

Government has already indicated that it plans to close Horizons 106 at the end of the year. A recent auditor general report found that Horizons 106 was “underused” and cost taxpayers more than reported.

The provincial government has now issued three Requests for Proposals to house people now living in the transitional housing facility in the community.

They’re seeking three separate options for people who require minimal, moderate and 24-hour supportive care.

Housing Minister Joedy Wall says he believes changing to an in-community model will be cost-effective.

He says he can’t guess as to the cost of supplying services in that way, but said “I’m confident with this process, that we will get the best-cost option…I want to do this right, and I want to follow the rules.”

NDP Leader Jim Dinn says while he’s pleased with the collaborative approach taken by the minister, he is concerned with the supports available.

“There are models out there that I would have liked to have seen” said Dinn. He points to Indwell in Ontario, Stella’s Circle and the Ches Penney Centre of Hope, three not-for-profits “they’re very much focused on the individuals.”

He says he has a “real issue” with the possibility that the services might be supplied by the for-profit system.