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About 50 residents attended the Barrie Strong meeting last night at a banquet hall on John St.
The topic on hand was the homelessness issue that has many concerns for a variety of issues. People from all walks of life attended, former politicians, clergy, business owners, and victimized residents.
Substance abuse, violence, fires were at the forefront.
Discussions back and forth were had ranging from more shelters, affordable housing, harm reduction, and steps to achieve these goals.
Ideas ranged from forced sobriety to military enforcement, to lesser strict tactics like more outreach and social workers.
In the end it was noticeable that both sides expressed frustration and given the tension shown on social media on various accounts, even this post will spark controversy outlandish comments and name calling.
We have witness many sides to this issue both personally and through reporting.
When Berzcy Park was at its peak it was clear there would be no “winners”. Groups still bad mouth each other and have a self righteousness for a defense of any given side. These actons have set back proper help that is required.
When one encampment complains about another and the attention it brings on the vulnerable people (some there by choice) this leads to an escalation of incidents.
To end the day the smell of a camp fire, overcame the parking lot leaving us no further ahead, but we can hope tomorrow will be a better day.
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