An open letter to the general manager of Toronto Shelter Support and Housing from Mayor Tory and Councillor Josh Matlow (Ward 12) has called for daily searches of playgrounds and school property near the Roehampton Hotel street persons shelter at 808 Mt. Pleasant. The letter also calls for searches of residential properties. Private property notwithstanding, the letter says: “We are ready to engage private property owners if there are barriers to access on these sites.” Violent incidents continue to inflame community feeling against the shelter. It was created without public notice in July and is said to be necessary to protect individuals previously living in City-issued tents. The letter asks the general manager, Mary-Anne Bedard, to conduct searches aimed at finding syringes, drug paraphernalia or other items dangerous to young people. The letter, which is here, seems to relate not just to concern for the safety of the community but to a potential political issue at the 2022 municipal election. Excerpt:
Please utilize space in the hotel to provide recreational activities and programs to support the health and well-being of the people staying at the Roehampton program. Community members have offered to facilitate fitness, music, and other classes. These programs should be pursued not only for the obvious benefit to the residents but to also help integrate them into the neighbourhood.
