Cranbrook’s Mayor and Council joined local leaders from across the province at the annual Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) convention in Victoria to raise concerns about crime, homelessness, health care, and local services.
Mayor Wayne Price, Councillors Ron Popoff, Mike Wray, Lynnette Graham, Wayne Stetski, and CAO Mark Fercho met with several provincial leaders to advocate for additional services and funding for Cranbrook.
A key concern was the impact of repeat offenders on businesses and residents.
In meetings with the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General, the City called for a legislative review to address consequences for repeat offenders.
Council also advocated for a sustainable funding model for RCMP community policing and improved communication regarding service delivery.
In discussions with the Ministry of Housing, the City highlighted the need for better coordination among provincial agencies involved in homelessness, mental health, and addiction.
Cranbrook shared updates from its Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness and advocated for additional funding and collaborative partnerships.
Health care access was also a priority.
The City requested increased staffing for local services, expansion of the Tamarack Mall medical lab, and support for a youth detox and treatment centre.
Cranbrook also asked to be included in the Provincial Rural Retention Initiative, which provides incentives to attract health professionals in rural areas.
Council additionally supported increased provincial funding for public libraries, noting that funding levels have remained unchanged for 17 years.
“The goal of these meetings is to secure improved provincial services for Cranbrook,” said Price.
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