City of Lethbridge responding to encampment concerns

Jul 6, 2022 | 7:12 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The City of Lethbridge is hoping to address concerns around encampments in the community. At its meeting Tuesday, July 5, 2022, City Council voted unanimously to direct staff to report back with a strategy on how encampments are responded to and how to best advocate to the Alberta government on long term solutions.

Councillor John Middleton-Hope brought the motion forward. He said, “Encampments pose a safety risk to both the individuals living within them, as well as the community.”

“There have been increased incidents of overdoses, illegal activity and aggressive behaviour in and around encampments. It is time the City and our partners develop and implement a constructive long term strategy that has an impact on this community problem,” Middleton-Hope stated.

In Lethbridge, tents can be seen set up along the edge of Civic Centre Park, as well as outside of the Lethbridge Shelter and Resource Centre.

Mike Fox, Director of Community Services at the City of Lethbridge said, “We are in the process of formalizing a comprehensive strategy and identifying the roles needed to address each situation over the coming months.”

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“Some of these roles are in the process of being filled. Where we would also need to focus efforts, is on how best to advocate to the provincial government for permanent housing solutions for those residents who are experiencing homelessness,” Fox said.

The City of Lethbridge noted that when encampments are removed, “they are likely to return or relocate to a new location.” More information on the Encampment Response Process is available through the City of Lethbridge website.

Administration is set to submit its strategy for review to the Community Safety Standing Policy Committee before October 13, 2022.

by Justin Goulet