The Town of Smithers is hiring a private security firm to help oversee the Temporary Overnight Sheltering Area or (TOSA), others    call is the homeless encampment, during 7PM to 7AM Monday to Friday and 24 hours a day on weekends and holidays starting in October.

This comes as the TOSA is headed into its fifth winter, with limited housing options persisting in Smithers.

Although, this is nothing new for many towns and cities across Canada, is has become an acute issue in many northern communities.

However, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Today we chat with Samantha LeBlanc, Engagement and Communications Officer about how new community safety initiatives will help protect residents and businesses Smithers.

We’ll also hear from Smithers Mayor Gladys Atrill about the towns struggles to find a long-term solution to homelessness in Smithers.