The situation involving the Oct. 7 closure of the Alpine Bakery continues to be murky.

The latest message from owners Walter and Silvia Streit, posted more than a week ago, reads, “It was with great sadness and heavy hearts that we closed the doors to our Alpine Bakery this past Saturday.

“We are hoping this will only be a temporary closure, but a lot of that is in the hands of other people now, including yourselves.

“Please take action, write people, talk to people, share your ideas and suggestions for how we can take care of all the people in our community. Our bakery depends on it.

“Our hearts are in this kitchen and with the bakery, and we are hopeful, with your support, that we can one day open the doors to the smell of freshly-baked bread.”

The action was taken by the business after months of dealing with issues revolving around problems associated with the nearby Whitehorse Emergency Shelter.

The Connective agency, which is managing the facility, has offered the following statement.

“We were disappointed to hear that Alpine Bakery has decided to temporarily close its doors. While we have only been operating 405 Alexander for 11 months, we know that these issues have been going on for many years, and we understand the frustration of local businesses and residents.

“Recognizing that these are complex issues that require a collaborative response from the community, we are committed to continuing to work with partners – including Yukon Government, RCMP, City of Whitehorse, CYFN and the Chamber of Commerce – to explore solutions to community safety issues as well as opportunities to add to the housing continuum to better serve the many different needs of people experiencing homelessness,” Connective said.

Spokesperson Kim Pettersen added, “The reality of these challenging issues is one that we face every day.

“As a provider of nonprofit services, we remain focused on improving outcomes for individuals who are experiencing multiple barriers, as we work toward our vision of a safe, healthy and inclusive community for all.” 

Premier Ranj Pillai has said he is taking steps to address the situation at the popular bakery, and acknowledges the government does bear some responsibility for what has occurred.

“There’s so many different elements to this. There’s an element around economic development, because the businesses that are there, there is Yukon Housing, because we do have units in that area,” the premier said.

“I think there’s an intergovernmental element.”

Pillai said he is “in dialogue with the City of Whitehorse all the time.”

He spoke with Mayor Laura Cabott on Oct. 12, as did Community Services Minister Richard Mostyn.

“And I just think that what we’ve been doing collectively is not working,” the premier conceded.

“And I think that’s when in government you have to stand up if there’s things you have to change.”