City staff say encampments in Point Pleasant not a thing yet

Point Pleasant Park Advisory Committee Meeting Recap

The Point Pleasant Park Advisory Committee convened on Thursday, November 14, with a focus on updates and discussions related to park operations and homelessness in the community. The committee, led by District 7 Councillor Laura White, consists primarily of local residents who are invested in the well-being of the park and surrounding areas.

Park Operations Update

The meeting began with a report from HRM’s Point Pleasant Park staff on the transition from summer to winter operations. The staff highlighted the ongoing challenge of managing leaves that fall on the park’s gravel trails, which can lead to rapid degradation if not cleared. Despite the departure of seasonal and student hires, the staff is dedicated to maintaining the park’s cleanliness by blowing leaves into the woods.

Additionally, the park acquired new vehicles, including a skid-steer loader and a Ford F-450. Councillor White inquired about the environmental sustainability of these vehicles in alignment with the HalifACT environmental plan. While the vehicles are not electric, staff explained that they are essential for park maintenance tasks.

Homelessness Update

Max Chauvin, HRM’s director of housing and homelessness, provided an update on the homelessness situation in the community. He emphasized that homelessness is a symptom of broader societal issues, such as the lack of affordable housing. Chauvin highlighted Finland’s success in addressing homelessness by prioritizing the construction of deeply affordable housing.

Chauvin also addressed the issue of encampments in Point Pleasant Park, clarifying that only two sites, Geary Street Green Space and Cogswell Park, have been officially designated as encampments. He stressed the importance of providing necessary services to individuals experiencing homelessness, even though encampments are viewed as a last resort solution.

Fire Department Update

The committee received an update from the fire department regarding fire fuel levels in the park. Due to past events like beetle infestations and hurricanes, there is an elevated level of dead wood in the park, posing a fire risk. While the fire fighting gear in the park is operational, the fire department is facing challenges in meeting response time targets.

Overall, the meeting provided valuable insights into park operations, homelessness initiatives, and fire safety measures in Point Pleasant Park. The committee remains dedicated to addressing these issues and ensuring the well-being of the community.