Regional chair provides comment on homeless encampment eviction notice

Regional chair Karen Redman is providing comment to CityNews 570 today on the eviction notice placed at the homeless encampment on the corner of Weber Street West and Victoria Street North.

Since that notice went up on June 6, Redman said the region has been reaching out to encamped residents, notifying them of available shelter options and providing outreach support. 

“For months our partners and our outreach workers have been reaching out to the individuals,” said Redman. 

She said so far to date, no resident has decided to take advantage of available shelter options despite that information being shared with homeless residents. 

While the eviction date is fast approaching, a rally is set to take place tomorrow at 5:30pm in support of encamped residents. 

Redman said she will not be appearing at that rally. 

“I have back to back meetings so I won't be attending that but, I have to say this community is a caring community and people are concerned about the welfare not only for residents on the encampment but, also for surrounding neighbours.” 

When asked about what will happen once the deadline for eviction is reached Redman said she remains unsure. 

“We're continuing to outreach to the individuals and I don't know exactly what will happen on that day.” 

Redman said she believes despite what happens the region gave encamped residents adequate time to consider what their options would be.  

The eviction is set to take place at 9 a.m. on June 30.