GuelphToday received the following letter to the editor regarding the city's new bylaw on encampments.
As Guelph moves forward with its new bylaw on encampments, we face a crucial test of our community values. While this measure may clear certain public spaces, it does little to tackle the underlying issues of houselessness affecting so many of our neighbours.
I know the mayor and council didn’t cause this crisis – and that cities are facing the consequences of an apathetic Provincial government – but how we respond matters.
I suppose I can’t fault the mayor for proposing this bylaw – since 2024 is one year after his four-year leadership commitment on this portfolio. But I can’t help but expect better.
Recently, I saw him at the opening of 10 Shelldale, a housing project for people experiencing houselessness. He wisely mentioned that it’s not just more humane, but more cost-effective, and better for the economy, to house people than leave them on the streets. He can lead ethically and economically on this issue. But this bylaw isn’t leadership.
Leaders have sprung up in our community, however. Many people showed up to oppose this bylaw, filling City Council chambers to advocate for humane recognition, treatment, and supports for folks who are unhoused in Guelph.
Those who spoke for this bylaw - elected leaders, business owners, and citizens - many of you said you had nothing against unhoused people, that you were for housing, mental health, and addictions supports. You simply didn’t want them in such visible spaces downtown. If those beliefs are true, I implore you to use the same energy you showed at the council meeting to advocate for these very supports - ASAP. I implore you to contact your MPs and MPPs, to show up at their offices and their town halls, and speak just as passionately for these supports you believe in. More supportive housing. Raise ODSP. Accessible mental health and addictions treatment. If you truly care about making Guelph a safer, ‘cleaner’, and more compassionate community, then this is where your focus needs to be.
We all want a vibrant city - but we don’t achieve that by pushing our most vulnerable citizens out of sight. Houselessness isn’t going away because of this bylaw. It will only become more hidden, more desperate, and more dangerous for those forced to live on the margins.
So, to folks who support this bylaw but profess they care about our unhoused neighbours - put your words into action. Create a Guelph that cares for all its residents. I’ll be right there alongside you.
Although we may not be able to see our unhoused neighbours so visibly in the future…
Give us the courage not to look away.
With sincerity,
Conor Russell
