Chatham-Kent is stepping up surveillance at local homeless encampments.
To that end, bylaw officers have been contracted to patrol the sites in order to maintain a presence, deter non-compliance and build relationships with the people living there.
That’s on top of enforcing the municipality’s encampment bylaw.
According to a municipal media release issued Oct. 10, bylaw officers will patrol the camp from Monday to Friday in two shifts, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., however that could change based on need.
The municipality will continue to work with C-K housing services and Reach Out Chatham-Kent (R.O.C.K.) Missions, the release said, and when issues are identified, personnel will speak with the individual, advising them of the infraction, offering guidance and support to remedy the problem.
Continued non-compliance could result in further action, including municipal remediation of the issue or a summons to court. All such actions will be carried out in consultation with municipal legal services and under the direction of housing services.
But at least one Chatham councillor doesn’t think adding the bylaw officers is enough.
Michael Bondy, a vocal critic of the homelessness encampment – particularly since the downtown tent village relocated to the Grand Avenue East this summer – said it doesn’t go far enough.
“It’s a good try, but I don’t think it’s going to be effective,” Bondy told The Voice after the announcement. “I think it’s more than they can handle. They (bylaw officers) aren’t trained or authorized to handle a breach of the Criminal Code.
“I appreciate it, but it doesn’t go far enough,” he added. “But I guess it’s better than nothing.”
The encampment issue has been top of mind for council in recent months after residents and businesses located near the Grand Avenue enclave launched a vigorous protest. Earlier this month, a fire destroyed one of the tents, but no one was hurt.
While the community may expect immediate results, officials emphasize the process is structured and deliberate, the release said. In addition to enforcement, regular clean-ups are scheduled twice weekly, and staff will continue to work with encampment residents to meet compliance expectations. For questions or to report encampment-related concerns, residents can call 311. Complaints made directly to the by-law officers will be redirected to 311 to ensure all concerns are tracked and responded to appropriately.
More information on encampments can be found on the municipality’s website.
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Chatham Voice
