Saint John is planning to introduce “green zones” as part of its Housing for All strategy to address homelessness. These zones will allow encampments with potential services such as electricity, heat, and garbage pickup. Residents will be able to provide feedback on possible locations starting at the end of summer. The city will also have “yellow zones” for seasonal encampments and “red zones” where encampments are prohibited.
City officials, including David Dobbelsteyn, have acknowledged concerns about public safety and the need for support services in these green zones. They aim to carefully select locations to minimize conflicts with schools and other sensitive areas. Despite these measures, some residents and experts, like Julia Woodhall-Melnik from the University of New Brunswick, have expressed mixed feelings. They recognize the strategy’s effort to address homelessness but criticize it for potentially accommodating the “not in my backyard” mentality.
Councillor David Hickey supports the initiative, emphasizing the importance of feasible and well-chosen sites for green zones. He believes that these zones are a practical early step towards managing homelessness and ensuring public safety. The strategy, which includes 28 actions, relies on provincial support and aims for long-term solutions over the next three years.
Read the full story with accompanying video on CBC: