Homelessness, addiction, mental health struggles, and street disorder are set to dominate discussions when B.C. municipal leaders gather in Victoria next week for the annual Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) convention.
Cities at Breaking Point
Local officials say that despite some recent funding, the province’s support has not kept pace with the crisis. Prince George Councillor Cori Ramsay called the repeated downtown fires and visible disorder “heartbreaking,” echoing concerns across B.C.
Regional Approaches Demanded
Penticton Mayor Julius Bloomfield argued larger cities are unfairly burdened with homeless services for entire regions. His city, with 120 shelter beds and dozens more unhoused residents, is pushing for regional funding models.
Other cities – including Castlegar, Nelson, and Trail – will press for more comprehensive rehabilitation and safety strategies. Revelstoke is asking the province to take responsibility for homeless encampments outside city limits.
Public Frustration Growing
Vancouver Councillor Lisa Dominato, who will speak at a panel on “disordered downtowns,” noted over 300 people are already registered, underscoring public frustration. “Cities feel they’re using every tool available, but the province must step up,” she said.
Financial and Indigenous Pressures
UBCM president Trish Mandewo warned the convention comes “at a time of crisis,” with B.C.’s debt and weak economy adding strain. Cities also fear the province’s recent borrowing law change signals fewer grants ahead.
At the same time, municipalities are grappling with reconciliation pressures. The Tla’amin First Nation and UBCM have jointly asked for more financial help to meet new obligations under Indigenous rights frameworks.
Conclusion
With dozens of resolutions expected, leaders say the convention is an opportunity to press Victoria for stronger, coordinated solutions to homelessness, public safety, and the broader economic challenges affecting communities across B.C.
