Greater Napanee town staff provided a report to council this week that cleanup costs for abandoned encampment sites in town parks are expected to rise as the weather cools.
Most cleanup work is done in-house using Town staff and equipment, but some complex sites require contracted services.
Staff say a July cleanup cost about $2,000 plus HST due to time-consuming tasks such as removing discarded needles. With more sites expected to be abandoned before the end of 2025, an additional $12,000 to $17,000 may be needed. Costs are currently being offset by reducing expenses in other areas, including staff wages.
Council noted the report for information and approved it. Staff plan to include a dedicated encampment cleanup budget in 2026, ensuring resources are available to maintain public park safety and protect infrastructure. The town aims to balance cost management with keeping parks clean and safe for the public.
Written by Emily Chatwood
