REGINA - The homeless encampment in front of Regina City Hall is still up and has been growing.
The tents, which during its first week had mainly been located on the west portion of the lawn in front of the City Hall Building, now cover most of the lawn in front of the main entrance. In a statement Tuesday afternoon from the city, they confirmed there are 72 tents up on the City Hall courtyard as of that day, July 11.
This is up from what was, according to media reports, 60 tents on the grounds as of a few days ago. The City also stated Tuesday that a point in time count done the previous day, on July 10, indicates 47 people on the site.
The city of Regina has also reported nine overdose incidents at the encampment, and they also report wellness checks are being conducted by Regina Police Service.
The homeless encampment has been in place at the courtyard since about mid-June after relocating from Pepsi Park. So far, there has been no indication from City Hall of any plans to clear the encampment, at least for the time being.
Here is the statement in full from the City of Regina on the situation as it stands:
“The City of Regina continues to monitor the encampment on the City Hall Courtyard. The City’s priority remains the health and safety of all residents.
“As of July 11, there are 72 tents on the Courtyard. A point-in-time count on July 10 identified approximately 47 individuals who appear to be living on site.
Regina Fire and Protective Services conduct regular wellness checks of camp residents. To date, RFPS has recorded nine overdoses in the camp. Treatment in these cases was provided by RFPS, or by volunteers on site, or by EMS. In two cases, treatment was refused. The Fire Inspection Team has taken some preventative actions, ensuring high-hazard items or conditions are removed or remedied including the removal of propane and other compressed gas cylinders.
“Regina Police Service conduct wellness checks regularly. The RPS Community Engagement Unit also conducts regular walkthroughs. Requests regarding the number and nature of Police incident responses to the Courtyard encampment can be directed to RPS.
“Public washrooms are available in City Hall during business hours. A 24-hour temporary washroom is available on the corner of Lorne Street and 12th Avenue, in Victoria Park. Garbage removal from the Courtyard takes place frequently. City staff are in direct contact with camp organizers on the Courtyard several times per week.
“The City of Regina continues to collaborate with provincial government agencies and community-based organizations to connect residents experiencing houselessness in our community with services and supports they need. The Saskatchewan Health Authority’s Street Project Team attends the encampment regularly to provide a needle exchange program. The Ministry of Social Services is on site twice each week, the Regina Downtown Community Support Program engages with camp residents daily, and Saskatchewan Health Authority / RFPS Overdose Outreach Team responds as needed.”
