City temporarily exempts residents on NE Calgary Road who live in RVs
"We prefer to have them in a place with potable water, sewage disposal, and possibly electricity, especially with winter approaching," he said.
Motorhomes parked along Moraine Road NE in Calgary can remain for the time being, according to Ward 10 Councillor Andre Chabot, who says the city is working on a temporary solution.
The plan includes finding a designated space for those living in RVs to park, though Chabot notes that this solution will only be short-term, with a longer-term option expected in the next three months.
A land use change will be required to formalize the new site, but Chabot says the location has yet to be confirmed. "I can't cite the specific location because we need to consider a number of factors, including communication with adjacent businesses, residences, and other impacted individuals," Chabot explained.
He also emphasized the need to collaborate with social services to provide necessary support for those living in RVs.
Chabot highlighted the need for these residents to have access to essential services.
"We prefer to have them in a place with potable water, sewage disposal, and possibly electricity, especially with winter approaching," he said.
The city will also need to accommodate more RVs than the nine currently parked on Moraine Road, as similar situations exist in other parts of Calgary.
Victor LaRock, who has lived in his RV on Moraine Road for nearly a decade, is one of the eight residents affected. "We need to be recognized as human beings, with our rights acknowledged and treated with respect," LaRock said.
He has been in conflict with the Calgary Parking Authority over plans to install 'no parking' signs in the area, which would leave the RV residents without options.
"There’s only one RV park in the entire city, and it costs $1,200 to $1,500 a month," LaRock explained. "My RV is 40 years old, and they don't allow RVs more than 10 years old. What other options do I have besides living on the side of the road?"
James Wright, another RV resident, turned to living in a motorhome after being evicted when his rental property was sold.
He relies on AISH (Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped) and said affordable housing has been impossible to find. "There’s no affordable housing for someone on a fixed income, shelters are full, and rent is outrageous," Wright said.
A current bylaw prohibits parking RVs on the street next to houses for more than 36 hours. However, a temporary exemption has been granted, allowing the RV residents on Moraine Road to stay for now.
