The City of Regina could soon look into designated encampment sites to address the ongoing homelessness issue.
During Wednesday’s executive committee meeting, Ward 6 Coun. Victoria Flores moved an amendment to direct administration to recommend locations for designated encampment sites.
“We have the opportunity to find better options to produce more humane responses,” she said.
Flores said the city’s current approach to encampments, including enforcement and clean-up, is not solving the problem.
Currently, Regina approaches encampments by first identifying the location and assessing safety risks, including the number of tents or fire hazards. Outreach support is then provided by the Regina Street Team (RST), which checks in with people and supplies food and water.
There are also regular checks by bylaw enforcement and Regina Fire to assess safety risks and any bylaw issues. At the same time, Co-ordinated Access Regina works to connect people to housing and support services.
If there is a reason to decommission an encampment, bylaw enforcement and partners co-ordinate clearing out the area. The RST then ensures people living at the site are connected to supports such as Co-ordinated Access Regina, the Ministry of Social Services, or emergency shelters.
Flores argued this approach is disruptive for outreach workers and “makes it harder for people to get the help they need.” Administration also acknowledged that decommissioning encampments causes stress, uncertainty and a substantial impact on residents living there.
Homelessness advocates spoke last week outside city hall, criticizing the plan for lacking details on success rates or desired outcomes. They also suggested adding public engagement opportunities to foster community support.
Flores’ amendment also calls for a community engagement plan and a review of best practices from other Canadian municipalities. If approved by city council next week, administration would return with a report in November.
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