After delaying the vote by a month, Penticton city council has voted 4-2 in opposition of issuing a temporary use permit for a tiny home community.

Tuesday’s decision was made despite city staff recommending a vote in favour of it.

“I do have a son that has been struggling with addiction for years and he’s been on the streets and Penticton,” said resident Penny Poitras.

The vote was described as one of the most contentious in years, dividing both the community and council.

“They have done an extreme disservice and that may have cost people their lives,” said Sarah-May Strange, another Penticton resident.

Many believe a tiny home community would have freed up space in shelters, allowing more people to move away from encampments.

Council deferred the vote back on Nov. 4, after public b

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