Furby Street residents fed up with inaction on drug houses

Residents of Furby Street in Winnipeg are growing increasingly frustrated with the city's inaction on a boarded-up house they describe as a dangerous "drug centre" and "den of thieves." This structure, located just steps away from a house under construction, has been attracting people coming and going for years. Linda Zak, a neighbor, witnessed the house being lit on fire recently and described the constant presence of individuals in distress, some of whom have required medical assistance.

The residents have been taking photos to prove the property is vacant but still boarded up. Linda Zak, who holds a yard sale with neighbors every Friday, expressed her concerns about the house being close to a newly constructed home. The Furby United Residents, an advocacy group, is urging the city and the province to collaborate on changing provincial legislation, allowing the city to set a cap on how long properties can remain vacant before seizure.

They also demand more supportive transitional housing throughout the city to address the growing issue. Cheryl Martens, a 30-year resident, fears the neighborhood is heading towards becoming a permanent underclass if these structures are not addressed. Neighbors Michael Tyas and Linda Zak are calling on the province to change legislation, giving the city more authority to seize vacant problem properties.