FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Prince George, BC – Prince George City Council has directed staff to proceed with clearing the encampment at Millennium Park, while continuing to support Provincial authorities as they work to identify housing solutions for those individuals presently camping at Millennium Park and elsewhere in the City.
In June, the City and the Province of British Columbia entered into a Memorandum of Understanding regarding supports for the unhoused in Prince George, through which partnership the City committed to supporting the Province’s work, including with responding to encampments.
In July, the City issued a statement confirming its understanding that, through its HEART and HEARTH initiatives, the Province was connecting with unhoused individuals occupying Millennium Park, and was working to identify appropriate alternate shelter and supports, including by working in collaboration with Indigenous and community partners. The City understands that this work continues.
However, throughout August, the situation at Millennium Park has deteriorated significantly. Recent reports from the RCMP, Prince George Fire Rescue, and City frontline workers indicate serious safety concerns for both responders and occupants of the park as the result of increased density. These conditions have severely impacted the ability of emergency responders to provide assistance to individuals sheltering on the site.
Occupants of Millennium Park have been notified that all personal property must be removed from the site by September 9, 2023. Any material remaining in Millennium Park after this date will be removed and permanently disposed of. The site will then be closed to the public while options for remediation are considered.
Individuals seeking indoor shelter are encouraged to immediately connect with BC Housing outreach workers for assistance in identifying available shelter space and appropriate long-term shelter solutions.
The City reminds all residents that, pursuant to the Parks & Open Space Bylaw, the Lower Patricia encampment, located at the eastern terminus of 5th Avenue, is the only lawful site for temporary overnight sheltering in Prince George. This encampment is protected by court order.
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Media contact:
Claire Thwaites, senior communications advisor
Mobile: 778-349-1386
Email: media@princegeorge.ca