A system that dripped water from the eaves of a downtown 7-Eleven store to deter problem loiterers saw limited use and has been discontinued, says the company.
In an emailed response to questions about the system, the company said it’s no longer using the drip line and is committed to maintaining a “safe store environment” for customers and employees.
The drip line at the 7-Eleven at the corner of Quadra and Yates streets drew attention recently when concerns were raised that it would get people who live outdoors wet as the weather becomes colder.
Grant McKenzie of Our Place, which operates a downtown drop-in for people in need, said he is happy to hear the system is no longer operating, but the bigger issue is the need to get people in from the elements, and to provide them with the treatments they need. “There’s still a lot of people out on the street who are struggling to fit into housing.”
McKenzie said he feels for local businesses that have to resort to such measures because they want to have a safe place for customers to come.
But if they’re struggling with drug dealing outside their doors, that’s an issue that can be dealt with by the police, he said.
