An encampment of unhoused people on Crown land above the District of Peachland is in the process of being dismantled.
District of Peachland Mayor Patrick Van Minsel made a trip to Victoria, BC in April of this year, advocating for the province to clear out the encampment. Van Minsel had passed along the concerns from community members who were worried by the increased dangers the encampment was creating for the District below.
“We did our job to bring this to the attention of the ministers.” Said Van Minsel, “It is part of the provincial responsibility to take care of [the encampment] and they are doing it.”
On May 5, 2026, The Natural Resource Officer Service (NROS) visited the encampment in the Trepanier Creek area and issued trespass notices under the Land Act. After the 2 week notice expires, The Ministry says NROS staff will inspect the site to determine if further enforcement steps are required.
The Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction is said to be working alongside partners to support individuals at the site during the process. Community Integration Specialists have been engaging with people at the encampment to help connect them to financial assistance and local services.
In a statement sent to AM 1150, a Spokesperson for the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs said, “We recognize that this situation is difficult for both the surrounding community and for the people currently sheltering at this encampment. Our goal is to ensure that everyone is safe and connected to the supports they need, including pathways to stable housing.”
Van Minsel says District staff will receive updates from staff at the Ministry on the progress of clearing up the encampment.
