N.S. news: Halifax council votes down designated encampments motion [Video]

A motion to remove Halifax’s controversial designated locations list for homeless encampments was narrowly defeated in council chambers on Tuesday after a heated debate.

The motion, which failed by an eight-to-seven vote, sought to eliminate the list of approved areas where encampments are permitted. Newly-elected Mayor Andy Fillmore brought forward the motion on Nov. 12.

“This has profound meaning,” Fillmore said. “It was very clear in the recent municipal election that HRM residents are ready to move on from encampments. Every time we open an encampment or provide resources, we are providing an alternative to people who are sleeping rough in a time where there are vacancies across the shelter system that would be better suited to keeping people warm and healthy and care in this time.”

Proponents argued the policy was ineffective and created unnecessary tensions between unhoused individuals and nearby communities.

Those opposed to it cautioned against removing …