City Staff kicked off ‘Talk-Tober’ with their second neighbourhood conversation with an evening of discussion and one-on-one chat with residents of PG’s East Bowl.
Staff noted turnout was sparse compared to the Hart’s packed house in June, but residents brought some social concerns to the table.
“Some folks who live just off of Queensway are concerned about pan-handling issues and homelessness folks who have come into their particular residential area. So they have some issues when it comes to our social responsibilities,” says Mayor Lynn Hall, “It’s an issue that’s been around for a long, long time. If you displace people from one part of town, it’s just going to go to another part of the community, and I think that’s what they’re seeing because it’s so close to downtown. People are leaving the downtown for whatever reason, and homeless folks are moving into these residential areas.”
The issue will go back to City staff for further discussion and consultation.
When asked about negative opinions regarding homelessness and the proposed WDIC park, Hall says plans won’t be held back.
“I don’t think it’s going to be a deterrent. We know that once the park is decided upon and we’re moving forward with it we may need more patrols by the RCMP. We know that. We need to be vigilant about making sure the park is safe. But I think it’s a really nice add-on to the WDIC building and that neighbourhood.”
Hall added the loss of parking in the area will be addressed in the future.
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