Cold Lake City Council is delaying a decision that could significantly shape the future of Kokum’s House, the men’s Indigenous recovery program operated by the Cold Lake Native Friendship Centre Society (CLNFCS).

At its Nov. 25 regular meeting, council voted to postpone the Friendship Centre’s request for additional land until Feb. 10, 2026, and asked the organization to provide a detailed project update in January before any zoning or land discussions move ahead.

Friendship Centre Seeking Land to Expand Recovery Services

CLNFCS is requesting a portion of land next to the current Kokum’s House facility at 4710 40 Street to expand its program. The proposal would require subdividing an adjacent City-owned parcel and amending the Land Use Bylaw to allow “Temporary Shelter” use within the C2 – Arterial Commercial district.

According to administration, the request stems from Kokum’s House reaching the limits of its current property. The site was initially designed with fixed boundaries, meaning any future growth now requires City review and formal land-use consideration. The City also consulted with the Cold Lake John Howard Society, which leases part of the surrounding area, and confirmed that the society is supportive of repurposing the land if needed.

Expansion Raises Zoning and Land Use Questions

The Friendship Centre submitted a preliminary architectural rendering showing the current facility alongside a proposed addition intended to increase capacity. Administration noted that even with an expansion, the building is not expected to reach full occupancy.

Before council can consider donating or subdividing land, the zoning challenge must be addressed. The existing C2 zoning does not permit shelter use, and council must determine how it wants to approach rezoning. One option raised was creating a Direct Control district—similar to the zoning used for the Stepping Stones Women’s Shelter—which would give council full authority over development decisions at the site.

Council Wants Clarity on Program Direction

Council members expressed a need for clearer information about what services Kokum’s House intends to provide in an expanded building. Some indicated concern about confusion between its current role as a sober-living transitional program and references in funding materials that describe it as a detox centre. Councillors stressed the importance of understanding whether the program plans to remain a transitional recovery facility or transition toward medical detox services.

Council also called for a detailed business plan, operational model and confirmation of provincial funding commitments before considering any rezoning or land reallocation.

What Kokum’s House Provides Today

Since opening in November 2023, Kokum’s House has operated as an Indigenous-based transitional housing and recovery program for men dealing with addiction, homelessness and instability. Its structure combines cultural values, routine and evidence-based supports to help participants rebuild their lives.

The program focuses on restoring dignity, life skills, cultural connection and family ties. Employment and skill-building opportunities are built into the program through partnerships with local businesses and work experience at Kokum’s Corner Thrift Store, helping residents gain confidence, work habits and references that support long-term independence.

Next Steps: January Presentation, February Decision

With several major questions still unanswered, council agreed that more information is needed before proceeding. Councillors supported delaying the matter until February, with the Friendship Centre scheduled to provide a complete project update in January.

If council formalizes the postponement at its next meeting, CLNFCS will have the opportunity to clearly outline its vision, program direction and funding plan before council debates whether rezoning or subdividing land for expansion is appropriate.

The future of Kokum’s House now hinges on that January presentation and the details it brings forward.