Encampment under the overpass in Timmins cleared out again

The City of Timmins sent in crews to clean up the encampment area under the overpass on Algonquin Boulevard on Friday morning.

Things like mattresses, shopping carts and debris have been accumulating in the area over the summer.

The mayor issued a statement this week to let people know she is committed to finding a solution.

“I’d really like to make clear that the fact that people in the City of Timmins, their voices have been heard," said Kristin Murray.

Officials said about around 10 people have been sleeping off and on in the area. CTV News first reported on the encampment in August. This is the second time people have been relocated since then.

“All the members under the bridge were Indigenous and they were looking to care for each other," said Jeremiah Sparks, coordinator of the Fire Keeper program for Mushkegowuk Council.

"There’s people on the far side of the bridge -- on the Tim Hortons side -- that were just there. They have places to go but they were there looking after their community members, their family, their friends to ensure they’re OK."

Timmins police were also on scene but it was Sparks and employees from Living Space who communicated with the people.

“We have a group of community partners that we do deal with and together we’re finding these folks homes, places to stay, giving them treatment for anything that they require treatment for," said Sgt. Robin Carter of the Timmins Police Service.

Murray and Sparks said sustainable housing and racism are two of the biggest obstacles people without a place to live are trying to overcome.

“What does housing look like in our community? And since I’ve been the mayor everyone has stopped me and asked those tough questions and they're tough questions to ask, absolutely, but I’m here about ... really engaging people within all of Ontario to build in Timmins," said Murray.

“The racism issue is real and we’re hoping that we can provide you know solutions, education and understanding. And that’s what we’re asking for at this time," added Sparks.

City and police officials said the area will continue to be monitored.