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Yukon Government buys out Duffy's Pets amidst downtown insecurity concerns

Thursday, 10 April 2025 14:01

By Panebi Wilson @chonfmpwilson

Former Duffy's Pets building sharing same fence with Whithorse Emergency Shelter (Photo: Panebi Wilson)

The Whitehorse Emergency Shelter has been a point of contention for nearby businesses, with concerns over safety and security.

The Yukon government has purchased 407 Alexander Street, the longtime home of Duffy's Pets, for $650,000, amid concerns over downtown insecurity.

The property is located next to the Whitehorse Emergency Shelter, which has negatively impacted nearby businesses.

At the 35th legislature spring sitting on Monday April 7, Economic Development Critic Geraldine Van Bibber questioned the government's decision, asking if other affected businesses would be eligible for buyouts. She also questioned the logic behind buying out businesses instead of addressing the shelter's operating model.

Minister of health and social services Tracey Ann McPhee confirmed the sale but did not provide further clarification on the government's plans or policies regarding business buyouts.

The Whitehorse Emergency Shelter has been a point of contention for nearby businesses, with concerns over safety and security. In 2020, the Government of Yukon developed a Community Safety Plan to address these concerns.

Despite these efforts, local businesses continue to struggle. Other affected businesses in the area include Alpine Bakery: Located at 411 Alexander Street, its closure is another example of the challenges faced by local businesses.

The Yukon Housing Corporation's decision has raised more questions than answers, leaving local businesses wondering about the future of downtown Whitehorse.

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