Public defecation has become a growing concern in Courtenay, B.C. on Vancouver Island, prompting city councillor Wendy Morin to propose a motion to address the issue. Morin sees it as a public health problem, particularly for the unhoused individuals in the community. The motion, which will be heard at a council meeting on June 12, aims to advocate to Island Health and the province for a meeting to discuss the lack of adequate and accessible washrooms. The city council will also discuss the possibility of funding a 24-hour washroom facility in the downtown area to address the issue.
Morin emphasizes the importance of providing dignity and access to proper sanitation for those directly impacted by the lack of washrooms. She explains that many unhoused individuals are seniors and have disabilities, making it even more crucial to address the issue. Additionally, the problem has started to impact businesses and residents, as they often encounter human waste when coming to work or opening their doors in the morning. While there are public washrooms available during the day, the city has refrained from keeping them open at night due to vandalism issues, exacerbating the problem.
Island Health has acknowledged the impending motion and has reached out to Morin directly. While the health authority provides access to washrooms during operating hours for individuals using Island Health services, they clarify that it is not within their mandate to fund, provide, or staff public washroom facilities. However, they express openness to further discussions with appropriate partners if the motion is endorsed by the council and they receive formal correspondence. Morin reveals that there are currently 272 unhoused individuals in the city, underscoring the urgency of addressing the issue to ensure their well-being.
The proposed motion not only seeks to address the immediate need for accessible washrooms but also highlights the broader implications of the issue on public health and community well-being. Morin’s advocacy for a 24-hour washroom facility reflects a commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and promoting hygiene and sanitation in the community. By engaging with Island Health and discussing potential funding and capital options, the city council aims to collaboratively tackle the problem and find sustainable solutions that benefit both the unhoused population and the broader community.
The lack of adequate washroom facilities in Courtenay has underscored the challenges faced by the unhoused population, particularly seniors and individuals with disabilities. The issue extends beyond access to basic amenities to encompass broader concerns around public health, dignity, and community well-being. By acknowledging the impact on businesses and residents, the city council is highlighting the urgency of finding a comprehensive solution that addresses the root causes of the problem. Through collaborative efforts with Island Health and other partners, the council seeks to implement sustainable measures that effectively address public defecation in the city.
In conclusion, the proposed motion in Courtenay reflects a proactive approach to addressing the issue of public defecation and advocating for the well-being of vulnerable populations in the community. By recognizing the broader implications of the problem and engaging with relevant stakeholders, the city council demonstrates a commitment to promoting public health, dignity, and community sanitation. Moving forward, continued discussions and collaboration with Island Health and other partners will be vital in developing and implementing effective solutions to ensure adequate and accessible washroom facilities for all residents, including the unhoused population in Courtenay.
