Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas has released this statement regarding the recent effort from the City to clear out and re-structure the outdoor sheltering site at the Rail Trail:
I want to start by thanking the RCMP, Bylaw Services, Kelowna Fire Department, City staff, non-profits, and our community partners, including Kelowna Gospel Mission, Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society, and others, for their hard work and commitment to ensuring safety during this operation. I also want to acknowledge and thank those sheltering at the site who have worked alongside these teams to clean up and improve the space.
Community safety, housing, and homelessness are Council priorities. From day one, we have been clear: we will do everything in our power to make Kelowna a safer place for everyone.
In recent months, there has been a rise in criminal activity at the outdoor sheltering site, creating safety concerns for those staying there, as well as for the surrounding community. These challenges have affected nearby residents and businesses and, in some cases, made it more difficult for people in need to access the site safely.
It is clear that the status quo is not working—for those sheltering there, for first responders, or for the surrounding community. It’s time to do something different.
We recognize that many in our community are facing challenges, whether due to addiction, mental health struggles, or other hardships. People deserve access to the support they need to rebuild their lives.
That’s why we continue to expand shelter and housing options. Through the HEART and HEARTH programs, 180 new rapid safety net units will be available, providing real opportunities for people to transition from outdoor sheltering to more stable environments.
This outdoor sheltering site was never intended to be a long-term solution, it is a temporary site designed to connect people to housing and services as spaces become available.
At the same time, we must ensure the site remains safe for everyone. That’s why we are implementing enhanced health and security measures, including 24/7 security and controlled access. These changes will create a safer, more structured environment for those seeking peaceful shelter and a path to stable housing. We are also maintaining space for those needing overnight shelter, ensuring continued access to essential services and support.
These steps will help ensure the site is safer—not only for those using it but also for service providers, first responders, and the broader community. Our goal remains clear: to protect public safety while working toward real solutions for people seeking a path out of homelessness.
