Encampments on GRCA properties continue, but real solutions remain elusive, say councillors
Regional councillors say there needs to be a refocus of energy and resources used to combat homeless encampments in the city.
Although the Dumfries Conservation Area remains a hot spot for homeless encampments among other Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) properties, there has been no “observed” increase of encampments compared to last summer.
Last September, Dumfries was identified as a hot spot for encampments, straining staff time and GRCA resources.
GRCA staff reported dealing with 41 encampments in the central Cambridge conservation area between May of 2023 and last summer. The response required 300 to 350 hours of staff time, the hiring of cleaning companies to deal with large encampments and hiring added security to conduct patrols.
Supervisor of GRCA communications and marketing Serena Catania said the conservation authority has since increased the use of external security as a means to direct "trespassers" to other alternatives and social support.