Scattering chicken manure in a homeless settlement across from the Salvation Army is not the way to go. But then what should be done?
The day prior to the incident, my husband and I drove past the fast-growing settlement. My eyes could not believe the horrible man-made messes they created for themselves. There’s no doubt the smell of chicken manure is unpleasant. But living in such a rancid, needle-infested pigsty cannot be terribly much better.
What worries me is just how fast this sight is growing in numbers right across from the greatest free soup kitchen only seconds away. I am convinced that many more from neighbouring areas are on the way towards this land of plenty.
So, what should, or can, the city do?
Although I do not agree with the outlandish tactics they used, I do thank the city for doing something at least. Abbotsford citizens expect them to keep our city neat and tidy. That’s what they get paid for.
Leaving the present drug- and needle-infested area in this sad state of affairs does little more then enabling the homeless to continue wallowing in their misery.
Should the city turn a blind eye to the problem? Absolutely not. The city has the right to take powerful measures. No doubt the time for a band-aid solution is long gone.
Spreading manure on the problem is not the way to go. Surely, there must be a more humane way of handling the problem. Why not put our heads together and see what can be done?
Gertie Pool, Abbotsford
