“It was out of left field,”: BC Regional Chief says Indigenous groups not consulted on Millennium Park decampment

The First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) is taking the City of Prince George to task over its decision to shut down the Millennium Park encampment along 1st Avenue and George Street.

The area was vacated by the 30 residents living there last week – only four of which were provided housing according to the organization.

When asked if Mayor and Council or the province consulted with the BC Assembly of First Nations or the Lheidli T’enneh prior to the decision being made, Regional Chief Terry Teegee answered that question with a resounding no.

“This really came out of left field and I certainly know that this also happened to the minister (Ravi Kahlon) who is also disappointed in the decision. I think it really speaks to where that leaves the MOU that was signed back in June.”

He added the decision by the city council to shut down the encampment was a hasty one and that stakeholders were already meeting to find some long-term solutions.

“Whether that was at the end of September or early October – I think there would have been more planning and a more humane way in regards to displacing some of the homeless in Millenium Park.”

“Those that were being strategic really only had one or two meetings where we were in the midst of developing plans, trying to find homes for the de-housed. This came a little bit premature, I am not sure what that is but it’s disappointing because all we are looking for is more time before the snow flies to house some of the people who have been dehoused.”

Teegee mentioned acquiring more affordable housing is far from just a Prince George issue, citing similar obstacles in cities like Kamloops, Kelowna, and Vancouver.

“And I think further to that, when we find these homes you also need to find the wraparound services for those suffering from addiction and mental health issues. It’s not necessarily finding a roof over their heads, it’s also finding the other services those people need.”

The FNLC calls upon the Prince George City Council to reconsider its decision and engage in good-faith discussions to implement an evidence-based transition plan in a transparent and timely manner.

The organization also emphasized the importance of treating all residents, including those without homes, with the dignity and respect they deserve.

Lastly, Teegee noted a housing forum is set for next month in Prince George at the House of Ancestors with a date and time to be confirmed.