December 29, 2023
A high-risk encampment was closed on December 29 in the vicinity of 95 Street and 105A Avenue as part of eight high-risk encampments impacted by recent legal proceedings. The City ensured full compliance with its obligations under the interim Order, including providing advance notice to social agencies.
An encampment may be assessed as high risk where there is a serious risk of injury or death due to fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, drug use, gang violence, physical violence including weapons, public health and/or sanitation risks, environmental degradation and/or criminal activity. It is also assessed based on its proximity to local amenities including schools and playgrounds, the number of people and structures in the encampment, if the location has previously been an encampment site and how long it has been in place.
The court ordered conditions to clear these eight encampments will remain in effect until January 11, 2024 and include:
- Before clearing the encampments, City and/or the Edmonton Police Service will make sure there is sufficient shelter space or other indoor space;
- If there is not enough space, officers will close only if there’s a danger to public health and safety;
- City will consider the cold weather in decision making;
- City will advise agencies at earliest convenience about closure;
- Order does not impact ongoing wellness checks by City staff or fire services;
- 48 hour notice will be given again to residents; and
- Notice to include reason, date.
Encampment Closure Facts
- Encampment location - 95 Street and 105A Avenue
- Number of structures - 8 large structures, plus 1 motorhome
- Number of occupants - 5
- Instances of medical aid provided -3
- Arrests - 0
- Tickets Issued - 0
- Individuals that were ill were connected directly with health services to receive assessment and treatment
- Multiple social agencies were on site to provide support. Bissell Centre provided breakfast.
- We are aware some individuals chose to leave without accepting supports. Even with available shelter space, some Edmontonians experiencing homelessness may sometimes choose not to go to shelters during our cold months for various reasons.
Future Closures
Four high-risk encampment closures are expected to occur between December 29, 2023 and January 3, 2024. Additional action in high-risk encampments after January 3 will proceed only after evaluation and impact assessment with partners.
