Expect the encampment outside City Hall to be coming down.

The city say it gave notice this morning that it will be enforcing its bylaw prohibiting camping on the property.

The notice was given after consultation with several community groups.

They include the District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board, Crisis Centre North Bay, Low Income People Involvement of Nipissing (LIPI), North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre, North Bay Police Service, Nipissing Mental Health Housing and Support Services, the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit and North Bay Regional Health Centre.

The city says it has been working with social services and other community agencies for over a week on voluntary compliance and to let those in the encampment know about shelter options and other assistance.

A statement from the city says all those staying in the encampment can come back daily to protest and advocate for better housing and system improvements.

The City is asking for the co-operation of those in the encampment so that we can collectively work together to help people experiencing homelessness find safer housing options.

An outreach team consisting of staff from social services agencies will be on site today to connect individuals to housing and support services.

Those who would like assistance will be offered warm shelter with support services and a safe place to store their belongings.

 

(File photo by station staff)