Saskatoon encampment removal resumes to address ‘safety concerns,’ city says

Saskatoon's encampment removal resumed on Thursday, addressing safety concerns, according to city officials. The process, which had been paused due to protests, started on private property at 20th Street and Avenue K South. Yvonne Raymer, deputy fire chief at the Saskatoon Fire Department, stated that the encampment was removed due to safety risks posed by the residents, the surrounding schools, services, businesses, and neighborhoods.

The city's support for the removal was also backed by community, Indigenous, and provincial government organizations.

Police officers and firefighters were seen at the site, where the fire service had been called to four fires at various encampments, including one that spread to trees in Optimist Park. Other incidents included a makeshift shelter being destroyed in a vacant property's backyard and another that became out of control in a park off Idylwyld Drive. The city also reported possible gang activity, domestic violence, assaults, and open drug use at the 20th Street encampment.

Tribal Chief Mark Arcand of the Saskatoon Tribal Council described the encampments as being plagued by violence and gang activity, including drug trafficking and sex trafficking. He emphasized the need for people to access the necessary supports, such as housing, addiction treatment, medical care, and cultural connections, in a safe environment. The STC offers a housing outreach program and an outdoor washroom project to help those in need.

The deputy fire chief was unsure if residents are given a deadline for removing their belongings, as police officers are present to ensure safety. The exact cost of the removal project is not yet available.