Homeless people with carts (File photo/Vernon Matters)

By Kevin Rothwell

Bylaw working on it

Polson Park homeless encampment growing

Jan 11, 2021 | 4:50 PM

Steps are underway to dismantle a homeless camp in Vernon’s Polson Park.

“This looks like an encampment with tents and tarps, set up right along the creek,” Coun. Kari Gares said.

The new 37th Street shelter operated by Turning Points Collaborative has 80 beds, but people are still being turned away.

“It’s full every night and people are being turned away,” Coun. Kelly Fehr said. “I would guess there are about 20 or so.”

“I can confirm bylaw has been working on the encampment and talking with social agencies about finding housing placements,” Patti Bridal, Director of Corporate Services said.

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Vernon Mayor Victor Cumming also expressed concern about other forms of shelter popping up around town.

“There is a converted bus around 14th Street at the extension of Pottery Road. What are our regulations for overnight camping on municipal roads?” Cumming asked.

There are also a couple of older motor homes that are regular parkers on 25th Avenue near the former OK Builders location.