The City of Prince George has filed a claim in the BC Supreme Court seeking an order to close the remaining encampment at Lower Patricia Boulevard, commonly known as Moccasin Flats.
The move, announced Wednesday, Feb. 23, comes after a 2021 court order that allowed homeless people to camp indefinitely at the location until suitable shelter with daytime facilities was made available. Since then, the city, in collaboration with the province, has worked to create more supportive housing options, resulting in an increase in the number of indoor spaces for those sheltering outdoors.
Among the developments is a new transitional housing site at 3rd Avenue and London Street funded through the city's efforts and the provincial Heart and Hearth initiative.
This new housing, which meets the conditions set out by the 2021 court order, is now available for Flats residents.
The encampment has only a few people left living there. Most of its temporary structures, including tiny homes, shelters and shanties, have been lost to fire over the past year.
Eric Depenau, the city’s director of administrative services, addressed the ongoing situation in a written statement issued by the city on Wednesday, Feb. 26, acknowledging concerns from residents about the safety of both the encampment’s inhabitants and those in surrounding areas.
“For over three years, the Lower Patricia Boulevard Encampment has been a subject of ongoing concern among residents,” Depenau said. “We share these concerns and have worked diligently to address them, while respecting the Court’s decision to ensure the necessary housing was in place.”
Depenau highlighted the city’s shift from strict enforcement to a solution-focused approach after the 2021 ruling. He also praised the collaboration with BC Housing, noting that the available housing not only meets but exceeds the conditions outlined in the Court’s order.
“As a result, we are confident that the housing and support services provided will help individuals at the (encampment) establish a path out of homelessness,” Depenau added.
As the matter is now before the courts, the city has stated that no further details will be provided.
An update will be issued following the conclusion of the legal proceedings.
