Encampments along the Assiniboine and Red rivers in Winnipeg have been causing safety concerns, as well as issues with garbage accumulation and other health and fire hazards. To address this ongoing problem, Winnipeg’s Executive Policy Committee recently approved an amendment to a motion that would establish partnerships with community outreach organizations like Siloam Mission, Main Street Project, and the Downtown Community Safety Partnership. This partnership would provide regular garbage removal services to approximately 150 encampments in the city, with an estimated cost of $170,000.
Originally, the proposed motion would have cost the city $4 million annually for park staff to perform weekly or bi-weekly garbage collection at the encampments. However, a more cost-effective option was presented with the amendment, which allows the Chief Administrative Officer to enter into sole source agreements with the community outreach organizations. City councillor Vivian Santos, who brought forward the recommendation, agreed that the initial cost was too high and believes that the proposed pilot project will have short-term benefits, despite not being a long-term solution to the issue.
Santos pointed out that regular garbage removal at the encampments could lead to cost savings over time, as well as prevent debris from entering the city’s water systems. Siloam Mission CEO Tessa Blaikie-Whitecloud also supports the hybrid approach, citing the positive outcomes that community organizations can achieve by forming relationships with those staying in the encampments. Scott Ramos, owner of Saint barbershop, emphasizes the importance of safety for everyone in the neighborhood, including those who use the river pathways, and expresses support for cleaning up the encampments along the river.
The proposed pilot project is set to be reviewed by the city council soon, targeting a select number of encampments along the river. City residents are encouraged to report any other encampments that need attention by contacting 3-1-1. Overall, the goal of the initiative is to address the immediate issues related to encampments in Winnipeg, while also fostering positive relationships with community organizations and ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents. By working together with these organizations, the city aims to make progress in mitigating the challenges posed by encampments along the rivers.
