Nanaimo City Council proposed a motion Monday night to ban overnight camping and temporary shelters in two city parks [1].
The move highlights the ongoing tension between municipal public health standards and the urgent need for homeless shelter options in British Columbia. By restricting access to these specific green spaces, the city aims to restore park utility for the general public while addressing resident complaints.
Councillor Erin Hemmens introduced the motion to add Nob Hill Park and Deverill Square Park to the city's list of prohibited overnight accommodation sites [1], [2]. The proposal follows reports from local residents regarding the deteriorating state of these areas.
"We've received a lot of feedback from residents about urine, feces and even used condoms in the parks, and it's become a public health concern," Hemmens said [1].
Local residents have expressed frustration over the loss of community spaces. One resident said that families can no longer enjoy the parks because they have turned into a mess [1]. The city council's effort focuses on the sanitation of these two specific locations [1].
A spokesperson for the Nanaimo City Council said the motion is about keeping public spaces safe and clean for everyone [2]. The proposal targets a total of two parks [1].
This action comes as the city attempts to balance the enforcement of bylaws with the realities of the regional housing crisis. The motion specifically addresses the presence of temporary shelters and the resulting debris that officials say poses a risk to public health [1], [2].
“"We've received a lot of feedback from residents about urine, feces and even used condoms in the parks..."”
This proposal reflects a shift toward more restrictive zoning of public parks to manage the effects of homelessness. By designating specific parks as off-limits for overnight stays, Nanaimo is prioritizing public sanitation and recreational access, which may increase the pressure on the city to provide alternative, sanctioned shelter locations to avoid simply displacing the unhoused population.
