GuelphToday received the following Letter to the Editor from reader Julio Rodriguez, in regards to the recent removal of an encampment downtown:
To our city officials in Guelph,
I just want to thank you for the removal of the encampment in our downtown square. We have the resources and we have great social services. That is one of the reasons that makes this city great. We all want to support these services. I know how difficult of a decision that was and that many of you might have had mixed feelings, as did I. It is not that we do not care because we do.
We all want there to be proper care of our most vulnerable and in need in our city of Guelph. We all want supportive housing for all. There are so many that also need mental support and addiction rehabilitation. We are a friendly city of hope, unity, freedom, pride and care. We can now continue to prosper in our downtown which leads to more endeavours to help social services.
The amount of people that reached out yesterday and also those that came in to say thank you for working towards getting our square back was immense. They will now be able to shop, dine, and enjoy what our downtown is for…. the continued economic growth of an amazing city. When I say they I mean all including the most vulnerable. It was never about them enjoying public spaces they have a right.
Encampments like the one at the square led to violations and criminal activity by some which is what should not be allowed. So a big thank you to our Mayor Cam Guthrie, bylaw, the police and all city employees who helped everyone involved.
Thank you whole heartedly,
Julio Rodriguez,
Guelph, Ont.
