Supreme Court Hearing on Tent City Set

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed June 26, 2018 9:30 AM

Last week, the City of Nanaimo filed a Petition with supporting affidavits in the Supreme Court of British Columbia to seek an order against the occupants of the Tent City located at 1 Port Drive requiring them to cease their trespass, dismantle their tents and vacate the property. The City has now obtained an order placing the case before the courts for a two-day hearing the week of July 16, 2018.

The City acknowledges the Honourable Justice Robin Baird's order balancing the urgency of the City’s case with the ability of the occupants at Tent City to prepare their response. It is with this approach, as ordered by the court, that both sides will be able to have their matter heard in a swift and conclusive manner. In the meantime, the City will continue to seek alternative shelter and housing options.

“The City continues to work to bring to fruition its commitment to the organizers of the original Tent City that was previously located on the grounds of City Hall," said Mayor Bill McKay, "Once we have a commitment from the Province, we can provide much needed shelter. In addition, City Council has approved, over the past six months, 265 units of non-market housing to serve seniors, low-income and people with developmental disabilities. We continue to work hard at the City to keep up with the need in Nanaimo.”

On May 25, 2018, occupants of the tent city located at 1 Port Drive were issued trespass notices to vacate the property. Since that time, the City has taken a number of steps to address the situation, recognizing the concerns of the residents and nearby businesses. The RCMP, City Bylaw officers and the Fire Commissioners' Office have been involved to ensure the safety of Tent City occupants and the general public.

Updates on this matter will be released as information comes available.

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