The City of Sarnia has identified locations where encampments could be located, based on prohibitions outlined in a protocol recently adopted by council.
Communications Manager Steve Henschel said the areas were pinpointed after city council requested the information at its recent meeting.
"Those areas include sections of the research park, the 402 Business Park, multiple parcels (of land) located along London Line near Modeland Road and on the southside of Lakeshore Road, opposite Mike Weir Park in Bright's Grove," said Henschel.
He said the spaces, on municipally owned land, fit specific setbacks.
"The encampment protocol sets out various setbacks to provide a buffer between sensitive uses, such as childcare facilities, playgrounds, and private residences. So, for example, 100 metres from playgrounds, 100 metres from residential properties and within 10 metres of private property," said Henschel.
As a result of the setbacks, he admits most of the locations are on the east end of the city, but still serviced by a Sarnia Transit route.
In their report to council, staff said amendments would need to be made to the encampment response protocol if there was a desire to include or remove properties from the list.
"This is a living document," Henschel said. "We expect it to evolve over time. We did consult with the various agencies that provide services to these individuals who are marginalized and experiencing homelessness in our community and with the county in preparing this document."
A week ago, Sarnia council approved a revised homeless encampment protocol which gave Sarnia police the authority to issue trespass notices at an established encampment at Rainbow Park.
