The removal of the controversial border fence along the Canada-U.S. border has returned the area near Tsawwassen to its original state, just weeks after it was erected. Local authorities removed the chain link fencing early on January 31, 2025, igniting responses from the community concerned about border security and international law.
Acting Inspector James Sandberg of the Delta police confirmed the fence's removal, stating, “This morning, the chief of Delta police and city manager met to discuss the fence and concluded it should be removed immediately. Crews then proceeded to take the fence down.” The fence, which stood over two meters high, was installed on January 16 as part of local efforts to improve border security following the tragic case of a Tsawwassen senior who wandered across the border and was later found dead.
The reaction to the fence was rapidly contentious. Community leaders and residents expressed their dissatisfaction with the installation, questioning its legality and the necessity of such barriers. Former president of the Point Roberts Chamber of Commerce, Brian Calder, articulated this sentiment, asserting, “. . . it is not Delta’s job to do international border policing.”
Councillor Daniel Boisvert spoke out against the fence shortly after its installation, proposing to bring forward a motion at the upcoming council meeting on February 3 to seek its dismantling. His efforts have since been rendered unnecessary with the fence's prompt removal. The council's previous decision to erect the fence stemmed from concerns over safety and border crossings, yet it spurred significant public backlash.
The fenced area was located on the Canadian side, adjacent to Monument Park on the U.S. side, connecting English Bluff Road to the border. Residents voiced their trepidation about how the fence may enforce what they considered intrusive policing measures on the local community. The swift political response by local governance reflects how communities navigate the complex web of border management, public safety, and civil freedoms.
Calls to revisit necessary safety arrangements will likely emerge following the fence's removal, especially with recent discussions around preventing inadvertent border crossings. City officials hinted at exploring alternative measures to address concerns of local residents effectively. According to Sandberg, the city officials will weigh “other options” to mitigate similar incidents without resorting to physical barriers.
Community responses to the fence's initial installation swayed between relief, frustration, and confusion. The senior's death was initially the catalyst for the fence's quick installation—prompted by fears of border crossing risks—but the abrupt dismantling signals shifting priorities among local officials and the concerns held by residents. People have begun to express hope for solutions to address security concerns without undermining community ties across the border.
The dialogue over the fence embodies the broader debates surrounding international borders, community safety, and local governance capabilities. After all, the Canada-U.S. border is known for being one of the longest undefended borders worldwide, and residents are often more concerned with community cohesion than with stringent border controls.
The recent chain reaction raised by the fence’s brief existence stresses the importance of community forums where citizens can voice their opinions on such impactful local decisions. Engaging citizens may help local governments make informed choices reflecting their constituents' true sentiments.
Residents had varied opinions about what proper measures should be taken. While some insisted on improved security, others emphasized the human aspect of border policies and raised concerns over civil rights. This nuanced dialogue signals the need for local authorities to take public sentiment seriously when responding to border issues.
Despite its short-lived presence, the fence may have brought the community together as they advocated for their rights and engagement with local governance. With elections and town hall meetings on the horizon, citizens might continue to press for transparency and debate about safety measures.
While the ministers for security and law enforcement may deliberate more comprehensive policies, the quick dismantling of the fence stands as testimony to the community's ability to influence local governance. It prompts the question of how effectively local governments can balance public safety and community trust when measuring the need for sociopolitical borders.