Timmins City Council in northern Ontario has made a decision to address the issue of homeless encampments by hiring a security guard for a trial period of 30 days. The move comes in response to ongoing concerns raised by residents, particularly regarding the encampment situated behind the Living Space shelter.
During a recent meeting, Coun. John Curley proposed the hiring of a security guard to address the challenges faced by residents living near the encampment, which has been a source of significant problems. He emphasized the need for immediate action to support affected residents who endure various issues throughout the night.
Coun. Bill Gvozdanovic shared that he has been receiving complaints from residents about disturbances in the area, including noise, violence, unsanitary conditions, illegal activities, threats, and criminal behavior. The council aims to address these issues promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
Highlighting the importance of striking a balance, Coun. Corey Robin emphasized that individuals residing in the encampment also deserve safety and protection. The council members acknowledged the need to differentiate between those causing problems and those in genuine need, with a focus on addressing the root causes of the challenges faced by the community.
To assess the effectiveness of the security measure, Gvozdanovic proposed hiring a security guard to conduct overnight patrols in the area for a month. The council approved this proposal, with an agreement for further evaluation through a subsequent report by the staff.
Mayor Michelle Boileau expressed her concerns about the deteriorating situation and stressed the importance of ensuring the safety and security of all residents. She has engaged with various local authorities to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation and emphasized the urgency of taking action to address the escalating issues in the area.
In response to the overcrowding at the shelter during the summer, Boileau noted the pressing need for immediate intervention and directed city staff to explore the possibility of establishing a designated homeless encampment in Timmins, with a report to be presented to the council for further consideration.
