Sarnia has spent over $100,000 since security and sanitation measures were implemented at Rainbow Park in late June.
In a non-agenda report to council, city staff said as of July 26, approximately one month after fencing, temporary washrooms and other health and safety measures were put in place surrounding a homeless encampment, related expenses have added up to $89,880.15.
That does not include police-related costs estimated at about $33,600 for redeployment of existing resources.
City police were called to the downtown park 114 times in just over three weeks in July.
Sarnia Fire and Rescue responded to the park 14 times between June 14 and July 23, and Lambton EMS were called a total of 21 times over those two months.
The report states that costs will fluctuate monthly as measures are adjusted.
Meanwhile, Sarnia council will consider a revised encampment protocol when it meets on Monday, August 12.
City staff is recommending council approve the measure which will apply only to new encampments.
If approved, the protocol will include a new response process to follow if a new encampment is reported within the city, and will prohibit camps within 100 metres of play equipment and pools on municipal property, schools or childcare centres.
Councillor Bill Dennis is also planning to present a notice of motion to instruct city staff to immediately post no camping signs at all municipal parks.
