Those living at the encampment have until tomorrow, May 25th to comply with an order from the Victoria Fire Department to put out any fires, take down all structures and move their tents further apart.
The order also highlights concerns about the use of flammable tarpaulins, inadequate exits, people cooking too close to combustibles and “excessive storage of combustibles.” If the encampment dwellers fail to comply, the Province has said it will seek a court order to evict those who remain.
According to a Tent City supporter who wished to remain anonymous, this morning a meeting took place between the Health and Safety Committee, community members and volunteers, “Garbage has been cleaned up, fire extinguishers are here, aisles are cleared. It’s not perfect but it’s a work in progress.”
On Tuesday evening a BBQ and drum circle were taking place, overseen by the Portland Hotel Society, to boost morale according to some present. Many of those lining up for dinner appeared to be suffering from mental health and/or addictions issues.
“I’m on the Aboriginal side support. One’s white and one’s native. Cut it right down the middle and one side’s white, one side’s native. But we are gonna have a fundraiser next week, on Tuesday and that’s for everyone, for the new building,” an unnamed resident tells Victoria Buzz, “Every $20 raised $1 will go to children’s hospital. We are gonna have 15inch subs with music, I’ll bring those.”
Another resident tells us, “This place offers a place to stay where we don’t have to pack up and leave every morning. There’s zero emergency housing for couples. We’ve been together for four years, she has some serious health issues and we can’t get housing at all. We want to be together.” Asked if he feels safe at Tent City he responds, “Safe? I feel relatively safe here, safer than camping at Beacon Hill Park.”
“Take my picture before my time is up!” A man named Rathborne, grabs us before distractedly calling out, “Hey neighbour!” waving at a resident returning home across the street. “Are you happy here?” We ask. “I’m happy here, I’m sanguine. You know that word?” He is gone in an instant, disappearing into Tent City.
Two officers from Victoria Police were present this evening, making their way around the perimeter, asking residents to remove belongings from the sidewalk.
Tomorrow, the fire inspector will decide whether Tent City continues, or faces more court action.
