Tents and temporary structures within Cranbrook’s city limits will now be under more strict regulations.
This comes after council adopted its No Camping Bylaw on Monday night in response to the increase in homeless residents in the community.
The change allows for the removal of tents and temporary structures in designated City parks, recreational areas or within the vicinity of government buildings, creeks and other areas.
Homeless residents will be able to set up temporary overnight shelters in some public locations in the City.
City officials said the bylaw allows homeless encampments to be taken down during the day at any time of the year.
“We considered a lot of options, and this was the best route for the City to take given the amount of tents that are presently appearing in numerous parts of the City,” said Paul Heywood, Manager of Building and Bylaw Services. “We are being supportive of their plight and recognizing their legal rights, while respecting our citizen’s use of public spaces.”
City officials said the bylaw will ensure parts of Cranbrook are protected from encampments and reduce the overall number of tents.
“Other benefits may include a reduced population of individuals ‘living rough’ as more of them will seek proper shelter and accommodations that would allow them to store their belongings,” said city staff.
