Update 2:30 p.m.
The City of Kelowna's bylaw officers performed a routine zone clean at tent city today, Oct. 9, with the help of RCMP.
"Extraneous material and refuse are disposed of in order to ensure accessibility for Emergency Services and Community Service partners, ground is rehabilitated, and replacement tents are provided as required," read an email statement from the city.
Original 10:40 a.m.
A clean up is underway at Kelowna's Tent City on Wednesday, Oct. 9.
Kelowna RCMP, by-law officers, Regional District of Central Okanagan, and the BC SPCA could be seen conducted a clean up, taking items that those experiencing homelessness have with them just off Weddell Place.
Members of Tent City are trying to secure their belongings.
Each fall, Bylaw services, police and large dump trucks travelled along the pathway through city to collect garbage, hand out new tents and give direction to residents in preparation for the winter.
Last year new fire safety protocols were implemented by bylaw services, after consultation with the fire department.
The new rules include increased spacing between structures to prevent blazes from rapidly spreading and restrictions on the use of anything that may block or impede access to a tent in an emergency.
Tent City residents must ensure that emergency services have a clear sight and path to the entrance of their tent.
In 2023, City of Kelowna bylaw told Capital News the aim of the deep clean and reorganization of the site is to prepare residents who are sheltering outside for winter.
Black Press Media has a reporter at the scene.
More to come.