The location being discussed for a homeless campground. (Image Credit: Google Maps)

By Derek Cornet

regular meeting

Homeless campground discussed by La Ronge council

Mar 10, 2026 | 4:25 PM

La Ronge council seems to be in a favour of the creation of a homeless campground in the Finlayson snow dump area. 

The homeless encampment would be used from May long weekend until October and would serve as an effort to contain the homeless population to a central area. The total cost for 2026 would about $11,400 and include signage, portable toilets, garbage receptacles and fire pits.  

“Given the location of services, the preferred location for homeless people is within the town and the town/Lac La Ronge Indian Band border,” a document created by administration for council states.  

“As such, homeless encampments have been prevalent in town green spaces, including lakeside parks, woodlands around the hospital, and woodlands in behind residences located south of Highway 102. These encampments bring concerns of sanitation, fire, theft, aesthetics, drug use, etc. As a result, staff receive several complaints seasonally (typically May to October) from residents who have concerns about the presence of people who live and sleep in community parks and green spaces.” 

The document notes homeless encampments have become a growing concern for municipalities, residents, and advocates throughout the country.  

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“In Canada, Section 7 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects everyone’s right to life, liberty, and security of the person,” it adds.  

“Courts have interpreted this to include a right to shelter outdoors in the absence of sufficient, accessible shelter beds. This means municipalities may not be able to evict people from temporary encampments if there is not enough indoor shelter space available, as doing so may violate a constitutional right. However, this is not a broad right to housing, but rather a minimum constitutional standard protecting against life-threatening exposure to the elements.” 

As council discussed the potential homeless campground, concerns were raised about the area’s proximity to the highway, security, the need for consultation, and the likelihood of other amenities such as running water and shower facilities also being needed.  

“I’m torn a bit because I do see the value of having access to washrooms and to a safer place to build a fire and to cook and have access to those supports. But my concern would be either it wouldn’t be utilized for that way, or without supports it could create an issue that we wouldn’t want, and also just concern for those who are close to that area,” said Coun. Melissa McNeil. 

Council has not formally made the decision to proceed with the project and administration is expected to continue working on it to bring it to fruition.  

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com