Cobourg’s Emergency Homeless shelter executive director at odds with bylaw over recliner use

Robert Washburn January 16, 2026 1 minute read

The former warming room at Cobourg's emergency shelter, which closed in July. By Dan Jones, CFWN, LJI — The former warming room at Cobourg’s emergency shelter, which closed in July. By Dan Jones, CFWN, LJI

The Executive Director of Transition House, which operates the homeless shelter in Cobourg, states he will not consult the Town of Cobourg’s Bylaw Services before implementing decisions that align with the town’s Emergency Care Establishment Bylaw.

The November inspection report from Bylaw noted that recliners had been returned to the shelter.

While this was a concern previously, as some people were found to be sleeping in them, Bylaw requested that Transition House consult them before placing recliners. Christian Harvey says this will not happen.

Harvey says while he respects the role the bylaw has in the community, it’s important they operate within their jurisdiction.