In a Facebook post on February 20, Sarnia Police announced that Rainbow Park has been "fully vacated". The post included a 13-second drone video showing the park being cleared, featuring four police vehicles, a bulldozer, and a dumpster amid the snow-covered grounds. Scattered fencing surrounded the few remaining tents as the cleanup took place.
"As of today, the Sarnia Police Service can confirm that the Rainbow Park encampment in the City of Sarnia has now been completely vacated. Police, City Bylaw, and security are currently on site to complete cleanup of discarded property and debris," stated the Sarnia Police Services Facebook post.
The announcement sparked debate online, with some criticizing the handling of the encampment and others expressing concern for those affected.
Under SPS’s Facebook post, user James Holmes commented, "It should never have gone this long. Incredible waste of taxpayers money to support a few homeless drug addicts. I say shame on the lawyers, police and council members who let this happen. There should not be people patting themselves on the back. It was a disgrace. I’m hoping people will remember this at election time. Most of council cannot be voted back in."
Another comment by local business owner Victoria Maharaj stated, "Glad the park is cleared, but let’s not forget these were people in survival mode, not just a problem to be moved. I hope they got real help, not just a temporary fix. We need lasting solutions, not quick cleanups."
After the encampment was vacated, SPS issues a media release in which Chief Derek Davis emphasized the importance of interagency collaboration as efforts continue to "identify more sustainable solutions to these complex issues". Davis acknowledged the hardship endured by nearby residents and neighbouring businesses and thanked CAO Chris Carter and his senior staff for their leadership and support.
A release by the City of Sarnia stated that all individuals vacated voluntarily and were connected with alternate housing and shelter. The release also stated that fencing and security will remain on site despite the lack of tents, in an effort to "ensure the park remains clear of encampments."