Eviction threat for Cambridge homeless camp

Residents of a homeless camp here are in limbo, with the property owner declining to say whether an eviction notice will be enforced and if so, when and by whom.

The half-dozen people living at the site were told in March that they had 60 days to leave the homes they’ve built on property near an industrial area on Hespeler Road.

That property is owned by TC Energy and people have been there well over a year without issue, including one resident who is sick with cancer.

The eviction date residents were given is within days, but TC won’t say how residents will be evicted, what will happen to any remaining belongings and who will physically enforce the eviction.

“We would like to clarify that it is our understanding that the municipality is not responsible for clearing the site or removing individuals,” TC communications staff said in an email. “The municipality is assisting those unhoused individuals with resources and support and is responsible for the enforcement of municipal bylaws.

“We continue to collaborate with the municipality in determining the next steps to resolve this situation as this encampment is neither safe nor permitted.”

City staff said they are not aware of an eviction date.

“We are not aware of a set date and will not be involved in an eviction on the private property,” said Julie Kalbfleisch, director of communications. “We cannot speak for the owner or other agencies on this matter.”

Some people at the site said they will hold off on comments until the eviction date, but none are happy about being forced to leave their homes.

Residents say nobody at the camp has been offered housing, and most plan to make camp elsewhere if they must. Residents were originally told by city bylaw officers about the eviction. Who initiated the process wasn’t clear at the time.

Now TC Energy says the city approached them about evicting people. “We understand the initial concern and complaint came from a member of the public to the municipality,” said the company’s communication staff.

The City of Cambridge has an app and a form on its website that allows people to anonymously complain about homeless camps.

The people living at the homeless camp were told in March that they had 60 days to leave