Over 1.5 tonnes cleaned up from illegal encampment

Cold Lake, AB – Late last week, the City of Cold Lake’s municipal enforcement team, together with the Cold Lake RCMP detachment, conducted another significant cleanup of a large, illegal encampment. 

Last week’s cleanup resulted in 1,540 kg of waste, the removal of four occupants from the site, and one outstanding warrant being executed by the RCMP. The site clean up was completed without incident. 

“This has been a persistent issue that has resulted in significant damage to public and private property as well as fires that could easily have grown out of control,” Mayor Craig Copeland said. “Municipal Enforcement and the RCMP have encountered drugs, weapons, and traps that have been rigged to injure people. These camps are a significant public safety hazard and something which we cannot tolerate in our community. We’ve helped to establish a shelter for people in need, where resources and assistance are available. Where appropriate, we also have assistance in getting these individuals to their home community through our Family and Community Support Services. We look at all reasonable options, however, the encampments themselves will not be supported. Illegal encampments throughout the community are not sustainable or safe – whether you are considering the people living rough, or the general public.”

From Jan. 1, 2025, through the end of August, the City of Cold Lake facilitated the cleanup of 26 illegal encampments. This resulted in just over 76 tonnes of material being taken to the landfill and transfer station. The discovery and cleanup of illegal encampments sites remain a priority for Municipal Enforcement.

“We understand that a significant percentage of the people in these encampments are from within the region, however, these sites pose significant hazard to public safety, and we will continue with our efforts,” Copeland said. “We have maintained a firm but balanced approach by offering safe alternatives to rough living and support for people in a personal crisis, and we are steady in our course.” 

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