In a heated seven-hour council meeting, Guelph councillors approved a new Public Spaces Bylaw with a 10-3 vote. Mayor Guthrie emphasized that this bylaw is a first for Guelph, aimed at regulating the use of public spaces, particularly concerning encampments. Tents will be permitted in designated areas but banned near rivers, schools, daycares, and busy public spots like St. George’s Square.
To support those affected, the city will immediately allocate up to $450,000 for essential services such as laundry, bathrooms, and waste collection. The bylaw, effective October 1, will allow time for public education and engagement, including detailed maps and information on new regulations.
The council meeting featured 45 delegates, with some expressing concerns about enforcement and potential legal challenges, while others highlighted safety issues and the need for regulation. Critics, including Amelia Meister, argued the bylaw could lead to increased police involvement and lack adequate public consultation. Supporters, like Michael Kennedy, cited safety and quality-of-life improvements as key benefits.
Guelph’s approach reflects lessons from other cities, like Kingston, and incorporates feedback from individuals with lived experiences of homelessness. Additionally, new Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) Hubs will be introduced to replace the closed consumption and treatment site, focusing on recovery rather than supervised consumption.
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