The launch of the campaign follows an increase in illegal invasions in some of the city’s parks, particularly in Region E.
Some of the parks identified by Citizen Relations and Urban Management, Metro police and City Parks are also being used as recycling sites that are now being left dirty and in disarray, with litter strewn throughout.
The situation has brought more crime to the surrounding suburbs. As part of the campaign, the parks that have been identified as requiring special attention will be patrolled 24 hours a day to permanently rid them of the current challenges.
Other parks that have been identified in the region are Cheltondale/Norwood Park, Patterson Park, and James and Ethel Park. These parks are characterised by the high presence of makeshift shacks made out of plastic bags, cardboard and wood.
The city council conducted a few past operations to remove the illegal occupants, and have committed to by-law and clean-up operations before the end of this year. The intention is to rid the parks of crime, illegal activities, vagrants and construction companies that use parks as dumping grounds.
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