“Interim, Interim Court injunction” delays large-scale operation to close homeless camps in Edmonton

An Edmonton Court of King’s Bench Justice has granted an “interim, interim injunction” requiring Edmonton police Service to wait until at least noon on Monday to begin any planned camp removals at eight sites that police have deemed high risk.

According to the city, it was served with an emergency injunction related to planned encampment closures, with the court adjourning the matter until Monday at 11 a.m.

Many of the camps targeted for removal include at Herb Jamison, the Bissell Centre and Hope Mission, at 95 Street and 101A Avenue, 94 Street and 106 Avenue, 95 Street and 105A Avenue, and the Dawson and Kinnard ravines.

According to Homeward trust, there are more than 3,100 homeless in the city with 1,126 shelter spaces available. It’s estimated as many as 300 people live at the targeted locations.

Nakota Isga Ward Councilor Andrew Knack released a statement on X to give his personal thoughts on the developing situation.

Spokespeople for the city and the Edmonton Police Service said they will not comment on the removal plan until there is an outcome in the court application.