District says it is working with campers who deny relocation support

District says some campers on the municipal campground have declined the support being offered by the district for their relocation.

“All but four people have moved to alternative locations following the winter closure of the Squamish municipal campground,” said Christina Moore, the district communications manager.

Work continues with the remaining individuals who have thus far declined the support that has been offered, Moore said.

District says Squamish Helping Hands, Sea to Sky Community Services, BC Housing, with support from the District of Squamish and Squamish RCMP have been working closely since the beginning of November to offer alternatives to help relocate the campers due to the deteriorating site.

The campground accommodated 35 sites at full capacity.

“It’s important for us to assure the community that we have made every effort, with our community partners, to provide support and alternatives for those in need, and have helped to provide many of them with better options than what they were facing at the municipal campground over winter,” said Mayor Karen Elliott.

Some campers have moved to other local private campsites or a hotel and are now receiving rent supplements from BC Housing to address affordability, district said.

Several have moved into the supportive housing system while others have chosen to park elsewhere in the district, while others have left town.

District said outreach teams have even arranged to repair broken down vehicles to help individuals to move.

“This Council, and this community recognize the ongoing challenges caused by the lack of supportive housing as well as affordable rental housing that results in some of our residents resorting to living in vehicles,” continues Elliott.

“We are working to better understand who is living in vehicles in Squamish and why, and create more sustainable policies that address different groups including those with complex needs, those who are employed and wanting access to affordable housing, and those who are van dwelling visitors. This is a multifaceted and complex problem that is not easy to address in Squamish or in any other community grappling with the same challenge.”

A report on vehicle dwelling in Squamish is in its final stages of development and is due to come to Council in the New Year.