Council defers motion on humanitarian supports for encampments

By Christena Lawrie, CFRC's Broadcast Journalist and Local Journalism Initiative Reporter.

At Council’s last meeting, a motion which would see the development of a Humanitarian Infrastructure Framework specifically related to encampments was deferred to be discussed next year.

The motion, brought forward by Councillor Conny Glenn, would have seen City staff develop a framework governing the temporary provision of humanitarian services on municipal property associated with encampment response. This could include supports like food services, sanitation facilities, outreach services, harm reduction, warming and cooling spaces, and storage, and consider the possibility of sanctioned encampments. The framework would also investigate the legal and cost implications and risks of implementing these supports.

Glenn argued that the development of this framework for Council consideration would provide more information to make informed decisions surrounding temporary support infrastructure.

However, other councillors were hesitant, citing concerns including cost, community engagement, and diverting resources from other solutions.

Ultimately, the motion was deferred and sent to the Arts, Recreation and Community Policies Committee for discussion in their first meeting of 2027.

Listen to the full story here.