Local politicians are in Victoria this week to discuss with the provincial government the various issues being faced at a municipal level.
Prince George City Councillor Brian Skakun who’s attending the Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM) Convention said one thing he’s noticed this year is the mayors have formed an effective lobby group.
Skakun said the province has to do more with addictions and treatment programs.
“So many local governments are just facing the same challenges with garbage, needles, crime, and I think we’re quite united.”
“We’re meeting Premier Eby on Thursday, we met with Adrian Dix, I mean, one of the thing is we’re meeting the Minister of State for Community Safety and integrated Services. There’s a lot of things we’ve got on the agenda.”
Skakun added services are also needed in other communities, including smaller ones, as a lot of those people in need end up in Prince George for support, but end up on the street.
He said there’s so much pressure on the health care system that the current state is unsustainable.
Mayors and councillors were out front of the BC legislature earlier today (Wednesday) calling on Premier Eby and his government to address public disorder.
“Street disorder has become too common a feature in downtowns across our province.” said PG Councillor Cori Ramsay, and newest President of the UBCM.
“Resolutions from 16 different communities that will be considered at this meeting underscore the need to address the underlying causes of street disorder and strengthen laws to limit repeat offenders. I am glad to join with other local government leaders today to encourage greater attention to this critical issue.”
Skakun said after tomorrow, they will be giving Premier Eby the letter from the Owner of Crossroads Brewery about the fire and challenges being faced downtown.
The UBCM Convention wraps up on Friday, with more information here.
– Files from Brendan Pawliw, My PG Now staff.
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