Earlier this month, Waterloo County posted a notice on the site saying people living there had to leave by 9 a.m. on Thursday, June 30. As the date approached, the area announced last week that there would be no police or regulation in the camp on the day of eviction. On the contrary, if the residents did not leave voluntarily, the area said it would seek instructions from the courts.
Those in the camp told CTV News on Thursday that about 10 people had packed their belongings and left the site – far from the area’s expected exit.
The numbers seemed to rise as protesters rallied to show support for camp residents.
The area has estimated that there are over 60 tents and as many people living in the camp on Victoria and Weber Streets in Kitchener. (CTV Kitchener)
“I think it will take a little longer than just giving us a sign that says ‘go away by this date,'” said Jason Paul, who lives in the camp. “We need a plan or a place to go. “They can literally throw us on the street.”
Another resident, Steven Taylor, said he planned to stay in the area as long as he could.
“I have everything here, I have a nice scene. “Why should I give it up just because a man says, ‘Oh, that sounds bad,'” Taylor said.
Protesters lined up on Victoria Street in front of the camp on Thursday and said they did not intend to stop the demonstrations until everyone in the camp had a home.
“As members of the community, if these residents are not being provided with adequate housing, then we believe the camp should remain,” said Melissa Bowman, organizer with Waterloo Region Yes in My Backyard.
Protesters hold signs in front of the camp on Victoria and Weber Street in Kitchener on June 30, 2022. (CTV Kitchener)
Last week a large demonstration in downtown Kitchener called on the area to reject the eviction order.
Another rally is being held Friday in Victoria Park.
DISAPPOINTMENTS AND HOPES TO CONTINUE#
Meanwhile, those working in nearby businesses said they were disappointed.
“We were hoping to see them evicted today,” said Audrey Spieker, who works close by. “The region has done nothing to help us keep our businesses safe. At this point the safety risk is quite high and we would like to be safe at work “.
Spiker said local businesses have suffered since the camp began.
“It’s been going on for a very long time now, the businesses here all understand that they need somewhere to go, but this is not the right place,” Spieker said.
Jason Paul says there must be a plan or “somewhere to go” before the campers on Victoria and Weber Street leave. (CTV Kitchener)
Those who call camping home also hope to have somewhere else to stay soon.
“Ideal for some kind of affordable housing,” Paul said. “For me, even to find a room to rent.”
Paul, who sells his art at the camp, hopes his creations will help him make a fresh start.
“It’s a good little parallel concert to get a few extra dollars, still waiting to sell this piece that will be rented in the first and last month,” he said.
Waterloo County plans to build a transit hub on the property. The area has previously stated that when people started living on the site, they were told they would have to leave by the fall, when construction is scheduled to begin.
CTV contacted the area for an interview or comment on Thursday, but both declined.
The district said it would now involve the courts, saying this is a way for people living on the site to support their case and others who want to comment to weigh as well.
Exactly when this can happen remains unclear.
