Title
STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATES
ENCAMPMENTS
The memorandum from M. Prowse, Chief Administrative Officer dated August 13, 2025 regarding the Homeless Encampment near Anne and John Streets was circulated to members of Committee and Council.
Members of Committee and Council asked the following questions:
1. Councillor, C. Riepma asked if the lands in question are owned by the City and if there is an estimated cost for the clean-up.
Mayor Nuttall confirmed that the lands are in the possession of the City. M. Prowse, Chief Administrative Officer advised that there is no estimate on clean-up costs and currently is unsure if funding is available through the Province to assist.
2. Councillor, B. Hamilton questioned how the City can prevent a similar situation from happening in the future, why it was able to continue for so long and the City's role moving forward.
M. Prowse advised that the City was aware of the situation and that when dealing with encampments there is legislation and Superior Court decisions that must be followed. The City needs to ensure adequate housing is available through the City's service manager, the County of Simcoe, to accommodate individuals. M. Prowse advised that this situation was different as it was subject to a police investigation.
He advised given the situation the County was able to resource adequate accommodation for the individuals in the encampment and advised that to date there are about 6 individuals who have accepted the housing and services. He advised that some individuals are not able or willing to accept services offered.
M. Prowse confirmed that the Health Unit was contacted but did not attend the site. He confirmed that the Ministry of the Environment attended the site and advised that it was unsafe for individuals to reside there. Due to the emergency order, the service manager was able to access resources to accommodate the unhoused The City has activated 29 Sperling Drive as an emergency rest area, and the serv...
Click here for full text