This evening Smithers council when decide on how to proceed with amendments to the Parks and Open Spaces Bylaw Number 1951. That would allow for overnight sheltering and camping in many Smithers’ owned properties, including many community parks.

Two weeks ago we brought you coverage of a public forum Council organized to hear concerns from the community members regarding the changes to the bylaw and the reason for the proposed changes, a town sanctioned homeless encampment on Veterans park next to the library. The decision made could either designate the current location of the encampment to stay where it is. Move it to a new designated area, or allow for overnight sheltering several parks across Smithers.  

Today on the program, camp resident Floyd Hysums   and James Quock about why they live at the camp and what they need to get back on their feet. As well, we’ll speak to Phil Bulmer, an advocate for camp residents, about why the Town and the community needs to help now more than ever to get these folks off the street.