Greater Napanee is facing a growing homelessness crisis, with a sharp increase in encampments throughout the spring and summer of 2024. In response, the Greater Napanee Town Council will focus its meeting this evening, August 27, 2024, on addressing this critical issue.
The rise in encampments has sparked community concerns about safety and the accessibility of public spaces. The Town has already incurred significant costs related to managing these encampments, including staff time and clean-up efforts. Despite these challenges, legal obligations require the Town to allow camping in public spaces when no emergency shelters are available.
The agenda for the meeting includes four key items centered on homelessness. A significant part of the discussion will feature a presentation by Prince Edward-Lennox & Addington Social Services (PELASS), which manages housing units in both Lennox & Addington and Prince Edward counties. PELASS will outline its housing and homelessness plan, supported by funding from Ontario’s Homelessness Prevention Program, which is allocated to various local initiatives.
One of the most anticipated discussions at the meeting will be the proposed Parks and Public Spaces Bylaw and Encampment Response Protocol. This bylaw aims to regulate encampments by imposing restrictions based on the public use of these spaces. The Council will consider how to balance the needs of the unhoused with the safety and access concerns of the broader community.
The meeting is open to the public, but due to limited space in council chambers, you’re encouraged to watch live on the towns YouTube channel.
Written by Emily Chatwood