Tensions flare at Kelowna city bylaw office as residents protest tent city sweeps

Community Unites Against Daily Tent City Sweeps in Kelowna, B.C.

On Friday, a passionate protest unfolded in Kelowna, B.C., as a group of concerned community members and residents of a local tent city marched to the city’s bylaw office. The demonstration, which began at the outdoor sheltering site, saw around 10 individuals walking several blocks to voice their frustrations. Along the way, the group grew as more unhoused individuals joined, united by a common cause. Chanting "stop the sweeps," the protesters aimed to bring attention to what they describe as daily and unnecessary tent city sweeps conducted by bylaw officers. These sweeps, according to the protesters, have become a frequent and disruptive presence in their lives, leading to the removal of tents and personal belongings.

The Impact of Constant Displacement

Erica Stewart, a former resident of the tent city who still maintains close ties with the community, shared her perspective on the situation. She explained that while bylaw officers used to visit every few days to remove garbage or large items, the frequency has increased dramatically. "Now it is like every single day, they are taking something," Stewart remarked. This constant cycle of losing and replacing belongings has created a significant burden for the residents of the tent city. Stewart, who helped organize the march, emphasized the emotional toll this cycle takes, calling it "a really crappy cycle to be stuck in." The protesters also alleged that officers have destroyed and stolen their possessions, further exacerbating the challenges they face.

Confrontation at the Bylaw Office

Upon arriving at the bylaw office on Ellis Street, the group filled the small space, continuing their chants of "stop the sweeps." Their chants soon shifted to "Nick, come speak," directing their calls to Nick Bonnett, the city’s bylaw services manager. Bonnett emerged from his office to hear the protesters but declined to commit to an official meeting, stating, "I will not commit to a conversation with you at this moment." This response was met with frustration, as the group demanded immediate dialogue and questioned Bonnett’s role, even referring to him as a "puppet." The protesters argued that Bonnett’s reluctance to engage in a timely discussion was emblematic of the city’s broader disregard for their plight.

City’s Response and Ongoing Tensions

Following the confrontation, Nick Bonnett agreed to speak with Global News, indicating that he needed time to "collect his thoughts." Later, the city issued a statement addressing the protesters’ claims, asserting that allegations of destroying and stealing possessions were untrue. The statement emphasized that any removal of materials is conducted in accordance with bylaws and policies, and is done with "compassion and care." However, this response did little to alleviate the tensions. Tony Baxter, a former outreach worker at the tent city and one of the protesters, criticized the city’s approach, stating that Bonnett’s team continues to harass residents daily. Baxter expressed his support for the community, advocating for better treatment and more understanding from the bylaw officers.

A Call for Dialogue and Change

The city has acknowledged the concerns raised by the protesters, promising to review the issues and connect with the group next week. This offer of future dialogue, however, has not quelled the protesters’ frustrations. Many in the community feel that the city’s actions are inconsistent with its stated commitment to compassion and care. They argue that the daily sweeps disrupt their lives and make it difficult to maintain even a semblance of stability. The protest highlighted the urgent need for a more humane and inclusive approach to addressing homelessness in Kelowna, emphasizing the importance of engaging with the affected community to find sustainable solutions.

The Broader Implications of the Protest

This protest in Kelowna serves as a microcosm for the larger challenges faced by unhoused individuals in many cities across Canada. The issue of tent city sweeps touches on broader themes of housing insecurity, systemic neglect, and the need for compassionate urban policies. As the city reviews the protesters’ concerns, there is an opportunity to set a precedent for how municipalities can address homelessness with empathy and effectiveness. The voices of Erica Stewart, Tony Baxter, and others involved in the protest underscore the importance of listening to those directly affected and working collaboratively to create meaningful change. The outcome of this situation will not only impact the lives of those in tent city but also reflect the values and priorities of the community as a whole.