The Municipality of Chatham-Kent (CK) says bylaw officers are now on the job patrolling encampments and enforcing the municipal encampment bylaw.
The municipality noted the bylaw officers are currently working two shifts, Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., adding the current hours will be monitored and adjusted if needed to "best meet the needs of the community."
Officials said the bylaw officers will maintain a presence at the sites, deter non-compliance, and build relationships with encampment residents to better help them enforce the bylaw. The municipality noted CK Housing Services, R.O.C.K., and bylaw officers will first speak with individuals when issues are identified, advise them of the infraction, and offer guidance and support to correct it.
If the encampment dwellers don't comply with the rules, a formal order will be issued with a deadline to comply. They added that continued non-compliance could result in further action, including rectifying the issue or issuing a summons to court.
The municipality is cautioning residents that results may not be immediate because the officers have just begun to address some concerns.
Officials noted regular encampment clean-ups are also scheduled twice weekly, and staff continue to work with encampment residents to meet compliance expectations.
Residents can call 311 to ask questions or to report encampment-related concerns.
Complaints made directly to the bylaw officers will be redirected to 311 to ensure all concerns are tracked and addressed appropriately, said the municipality.
Click here for more information on encampments.
