By Cheryl Jahn

Council leans toward centralized encampment model

Mar 13, 2023 | 10:00 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Council has approved changes to the Parks and Open Space bylaw to create a centralized encampment model, meaning the City can use the bylaw to move the unsheltered to the Lower Patricia Boulevard and clean up camps elsewhere in the city.

The City is bound by the courts to keep the Lower Patricia Boulevard encampment in place until “suitable” housing is found for the homeless. However, in the words of Adam Davey, he Director of Public Safety noted, “there is no definition of suitable housing.”

“There is no right answer,” said Councillor Cori Ramsay, noting that the status quo is unsustainable. Councillors Susan Scott and Ron Polillo concurring.

Councillor Brian Skakun said it bluntly.

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“That camp is not going away. I don’t think the Province or BC Housing will ever be able provide enough housing with the migration we’r seeing.”

However, Council also directed the RCMP to step up patrols in the Millar Addition, the neighbourhood above the Lower Patricia Boulevard.

“We’re constrained by the courts,” said Councillor Garth Frizzell. “Superintendent Wright said we have the tools to keep people safe.”

Councillor spoke of the location.

“The location sucks,” saying it is not near any services and the current decentralized model makes providing services. “This is the least worst option.”

“It’s really not a win-win,” said Davey.

Mayor Simon Yu emphasized this is a “temporary solution.”

“The situation is dynamic,” he said. “We need to work with the NGO’s. A permanent solution with be found.”

Council has approved the first three readings of the bylaw amendment.

by Cheryl Jahn

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Council leans toward centralized encampment model

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