Friday, March 29, 2024

City of Victoria moves to evict homeless encampment from Centennial Square

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The City of Victoria has ordered a closure of Centennial Square that will see the removal of a homeless encampment in the area.

People currently sheltering in the square were ordered to relocate to other places by Sept. 1.

The order was issued August 28 by the Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities through existing Parks Regulation Bylaws that allow closure of parks and open spaces due to hazardous conditions.

“We recognize every person has the right to shelter and that COVID-19 has exacerbated the challenges faced by vulnerable populations,” the City said in a statement.

“However Centennial Square has become entrenched with a criminal element that demands greater action to protect the public, businesses and those seeking shelter.”

They added that after people have been relocated from the area, the city will be restoring the landscape and cleaning the site.

The order does not affect homeless encampments in other parts of the city, including Beacon Hill Park.

Last week mayor Lisa Helps called a closed meeting of Council for August 27 to discuss homeless encampments in the city.

“The current situation is not working for anyone,” Helps said in a message to Victoria Buzz.

Tim Ford
Tim Ford
Digital staff writer with Victoria Buzz

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