The City of Campbell River’s mayor and council is frustrated with the increase of what it calls “undesirable activity” in the downtown core.
They’re determined to solve crime and safety issues that have sparked much discussion from concerned residents and business owners alike.
Mayor Andy Adams says it’s important to note that “we’re not alone” when it comes to homelessness and an increase in crime and illicit drug use. “This is right across the province, if not the country, if not North America,” he says.
According to Adams, “it’s a real challenge.”
Back in June, the Downtown Business Improvement Association surveyed local shops. Results found that businesses feel the area is unsafe, and the alleys are filthy.
Adams says council is very aware of the issues at hand and is very concerned.
Just last Thursday, October 15th, police were called after a 60-year-old man was assaulted outside the Royal Bank on Shopper’s Row. He later died in hospital the following Saturday. Police are now looking for witnesses.
While the criminal activities associated with downtown are under the RCMP’s jurisdiction, Adams says the majority of the issues are really mental health and addictions.
He says it’s really taking a toll, as the city “continues to throw money at this.”
“We opened up the Downtown Safety Office, we increased our number of bi-law officers, we have increased RCMP officers, we have worked with BC Housing on supportive and affordable housing initiatives, we provide grants and aid to all kinds of social service agencies around downtown.”
Council has started on its financial planning for next year, but with reduced revenues and increased expenses because of COVID-19, Adams says capital projects are being deferred or delayed as the city continues to be challenged with what it can afford to do.
READ MORE: Economic effects of pandemic expected to hit Campbell River projects, community groups
He says local governments are not allowed to go into debt, unlike the province and the federal government.
Whatever council chooses to do, Adams says it needs to be a smart move. He says it has to be something that will have a positive impact, “rather than just keep throwing things up there that have financial implications but may not result in any improvement.”
City manager Deborah Sargent says the strength of the partnerships that the city already has in place are really going to help, both through the pandemic and with the issues that are happening downtown.
“Taking a collaborative approach and trying to ensure that we have all of the right people at the table is something that council has been consistently supporting,” Sargent says.
She adds that when it comes to the complex issues facing downtown, homeless issues, and mental health and addiction issues, council needs to ensure that as many parties as possible are all rowing in the same direction.
“Make no mistake, council is extremely frustrated and concerned about what’s going on in our downtown core,” Mayor Adams says. “We’re not letting this one go, we are working really hard as to what realistic options we can put in place.”
“Hopefully we can have some tangible improvement,” Adams adds.
