Council was told security hired to prevent encampments wouldn’t make arrests. One councillor is questioning why city documents say otherwise.
Kelowna resident and councillor Terry Shaver said he’s worried that people who are there illegally will be cited for not having a permit.
“These people have been sitting here not allowed to move, to camp here for weeks and if they have permits they should be allowed to move on. It’s very hard to believe there’s anybody that’s going to bother to get a permit to camp where there are no public rights of way.”
The community says camping is not allowed in the city of Kelowna. But a group of residents and activists got their campers into the city last month and are now facing a court process.
Mayor Bill McKay has pledged to listen to the community and address the concerns. He said he’s been in regular communication with them and is open to the idea of a temporary camp.
The camp is also now calling on Premier John Horgan to address the city’s illegal encampments.
“There’s no respect for human rights, no respect for our rights or the rights of the people of Kelowna,” said camp organizer Jim Gourley.
“I just want my government to say we’re going to listen to the community and we’re going to protect the rights of these people.”
