Police are issuing a reminder to the public after receiving multiple 911 calls about a recently relocated homeless encampment in Chatham.
The Chatham-Kent Police Service said several residents have called the Emergency Communications Centre to express concerns about the new encampment, located on the Chatham-Kent PUC property on Grand Avenue East.
Many of the unhoused individuals sheltering at the PUC property moved there earlier this week after they were asked to vacate another encampment located on Thames Street, to allow for planned structural improvements along the Thames River.
Authorities said unhoused individuals are permitted to shelter at the PUC property, as it falls under the existing municipal guidelines.
As per the Encampment Protocol adopted by Chatham-Kent Council, unhoused persons are restricted from taking shelter on or within 100 metres of municipal playgrounds, water parks, splashpads, beaches, sports fields, elementary schools, childcare facilities, assisted living facilities, or a facility providing support or care services to youth or vulnerable populations. Bylaws also restrict unhoused individuals from sheltering within 10 metres of any private property line, in any actively used parking lot, and on any public-use building or structure.
“The Chatham-Kent Police Service continues to work alongside community partners to ensure public safety while respecting the rights of all individuals,” police said in a news release.
Police officials are reminding the public that calling 911 is for emergencies only. Those who have questions or concerns about an unhoused person sheltering at a location that is believed to be in violation of the municipal protocol are asked to call 311 or the non-emergency number at 519-436-6600.
