Regina Street Team Managers Dismissed; Anticipate Further Changes
Recent changes within the Regina Street Team have raised concerns about the future of its operations. Two prominent figures from this outreach initiative have been dismissed, prompting discussions about the strategy for addressing homelessness in Regina.
Dismissals of Key Regina Street Team Managers
Judith Veresuk, the executive director of the Regina Downtown Business Improvement District (RDBID), confirmed that Rob Kraushaar and Jason Knudsen are no longer associated with the Regina Street Team. Veresuk explained that their contracts had been concluded, but she refrained from disclosing further details due to privacy reasons.
- Rob Kraushaar – Program Coordinator
- Jason Knudsen – Outreach Program Manager
Background of the Regina Street Team
The Regina Street Team was launched in May 2024. It was designed to respond to non-emergency situations involving individuals who are homeless or facing mental health challenges. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the City of Regina to combat homelessness, particularly in downtown areas and the Heritage neighbourhoods.
Management Changes and Reactions
Following their dismissal, Kraushaar stated on social media that he was “terminated without notice” and described the decision as a “business move.” He expressed concerns over not being able to openly discuss the situation. Kraushaar suggested that his departure stemmed from directive failures, hinting at internal conflicts within the organization.
Revisions to Regina’s Homelessness Strategy
The timing of these dismissals coincides with discussions by Regina’s executive committee about enhancing the city’s wellness and homelessness strategy. They voted to support a motion aimed at reallocating resources to better fund projects that tackle homelessness.
- Recommendation for increased provincial and federal funding
- Potential shift to third-party management of the street team
Councilor Victoria Flores played a significant role in this motion. She emphasized the complexity and growing nature of the homelessness issue, which the city finds difficult to address with its current budget.
Future of the Regina Street Team
The motion passed by the executive committee includes a stipulation for city administration to either bring in a third-party operator for the street team or continue managing it internally. Regardless of the outcome, the street team is expected to remain operational through at least 2026.
As of now, the team consists of approximately ten members, although Veresuk noted that this number is subject to change. Additionally, funding previously allocated to the street team by the RDBID will now be redirected to the city administration.
Future council discussions will determine the final structure and funding of the Regina Street Team, ensuring ongoing support for the city’s vulnerable populations.
