Richmond homeless camps raise safety concerns near jet fuel pipeline

Richmond city councilors are raising alarms over two expanding homeless encampments situated precariously near a jet fuel pipeline along Highway 99. The proximity to critical infrastructure, coupled with reports of fires and weapons, has amplified concerns about public safety and environmental risks.

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This encampment is right above the new jet fuel pipeline and there have been significant fires that have been set by the unsheltered population here.

City councilor Kash Heed highlighted the explosive growth of the encampments and the significant danger posed by their location above the new jet fuel pipeline. "This encampment is right above the new jet fuel pipeline and there have been significant fires that have been set by the unsheltered population here," Heed told Global News. He also noted the seizure of numerous weapons, including axes, swords, and machetes, over the past year.

Heed expressed frustration with the lack of cooperation from the B.C. provincial government, which holds responsibility for the Crown land where the encampments are situated. "We get no cooperation from them whatsoever," Heed stated, adding that the city often encounters "resistance" when attempting to take action.

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We get no cooperation from them whatsoever.

The city estimates that over 30 campers and trailers are present, with cleanup costs potentially exceeding $200,000. One resident, Guylaine Auclair, who claims to have lived at the encampment for about a year and a half, described her living situation as "paradise" despite being offered modular housing. Councilors are warning that if the provincial government does not intervene, Richmond may resort to taking matters into its own hands and billing the province for the cleanup.

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It’s so pretty. There’s like flowers everywhere… It’s like paradise.