The City of Barrie says its making headway, in coordination with the County, clearing several homeless encampments since the mayor declared a state of emergency nearly a month ago. Officials say the focus has been on connecting individuals with shelter and support services, while also restoring public spaces and ensuring community safety. According to the City, four major encampments have been dismantled to date, including a massive area at Dyment’s Creek and Victoria Street, which remains fenced off for cleanup efforts. The south side has been completed, and contractors are finishing work on the north side over this week, the City stated in a Friday update. The tents that had been set up along Mulcaster Street near the courthouse and City Hall have since been removed, with 39 of 44 individuals finding alternative shelter and storage for their belongings. At Sam Cancilla Park, the City reports one tent was removed, and the individual staying there has been relocated to safe shelter. Meanwhile, 11 of the 18 people living at a site on Bradford Street were supported with shelter options, officials say. All the residents have since vacated the area and cleanup efforts are now underway. “The coordinated response between the City and County of Simcoe has made meaningful progress in addressing the immediate needs of individuals living in encampments while balancing the health and safety of the broader community,” said Mayor Alex Nuttall.“We remain committed to supporting vulnerable residents with safe spaces and services, while protecting the wellbeing of the broader community.” The City and County noted they continue to review encampments throughout Barrie and prioritize those that pose safety or public health risks. “Further actions will depend on shelter availability,” the City stated. According to County data, there were 632 people experiencing homelessness in Barrie one week before the state of emergency. The City reports its latest count has 26 encampments within Barrie, with roughly 111 people residing in them.
