City of Regina Decommissioning Encampment in response to Imminent Safety Risk
In response to an imminent risk to the safety of individuals encamped in the City Hall Courtyard, the camp will be decommissioned effective immediately. As of 1:30 p.m. July 27, 2023, Regina City Hall is closed to the public to allow for the safe and immediate decommissioning of the encampment.
“Today, to best protect the lives of those living in the encampment, and in response to an imminent risk to their safety, I’m exercising my authority under The Fire Safety Act,” said Regina Fire and Protective Services Chief Layne Jackson. “A significant fire earlier this morning at the encampment confirms that the lives of those living on the encampment are at imminent risk.”
Regina Fire and Protective Services have responded to three fires at the encampment over the past five days. Fire inspectors have been on site since the encampment first began, working to ensure fire safety regulations are respected. Compliance in the encampment has been unachievable. “I am convinced that decommissioning the camp is the best and only response to the imminent safety risk threatening the lives of those living on the City Hall Courtyard,” added Chief Jackson.
City Hall will remain closed to residents on Friday, July 28 and will be reopened to the public when camp decommissioning is complete. The City will issue a public notification when City Hall reopens to the public.