KELOWNA — Critics of Kelowna City Council’s controversial proposed bylaw forbidding people to sleep on the sidewalk are holding a rally today.
The event is being organized by Kelowna resident Katrina Plamondon.
She’s created a Facebook page, asking supporters to speak out against the bylaw, which is expected to pass fourth and final reading later this month.
The city says the bylaw would restrict people from sleeping or sitting on Kelowna’s sidewalks at anytime.
Currently, the restriction is in effect from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Kelowna’s by-law services manager says the new rules are designed with safety in mind.
“It just came down to a trip hazard and the safety of the individuals in those conditions as well,” he said.
Mayor Colin Basran denies the new bylaw is aimed at the homeless.
“This isn’t a witch hunt to stop people from sleeping on our streets,” said Basran.
The bylaw allows for a $50 fine and will be enforced on a complaint basis.
A Facebook page entitled, ‘Sit down to take a stand for people without homes’, indicates today’s rally is happening at 4:30 p.m. in front of Kelowna City Hall.
So far, nearly 160 people have indicated they’re going.