Update: Highway 97B Encampment
On June 19th I sent a letter to the Minister of Housing and Transportation in regards to the encampment near Highway 97B and 10th Ave, in Salmon Arm. In it, I requested timelines, clarity, and action. The response? No timeline, no fencing plan — just more "monitoring."
FULL VIDEO TRANSCRIPT:
I appreciate the Minister of Housing responding to my concerns regarding the encampment on provincial property near Highway 97B and 10th Avenue in Salmon Arm. Unfortunately, the response provides very little reassurance to the residents and businesses who have been asking for action.
The Province acknowledges that it is aware of the encampment and that several ministries and agencies are involved. Yet after months of concerns being raised, the answer remains that the site will continue to be “monitored,” fencing is not planned, and there is still no timeline for closure or relocation.
That is simply not good enough.
This is not about lacking compassion for those experiencing homelessness. People who need housing, addiction treatment, mental-health care, and other supports deserve timely access to those services. But compassion cannot mean ignoring the legitimate safety and quality-of-life concerns of surrounding residents.
Many local residents have raised concerns about fires, increased traffic, unwanted interactions, and the overall safety of an encampment located on provincial transportation property.
Telling residents to call 911 or the RCMP after an incident occurs is not a substitute for preventing problems in the first place.
I find the Province’s response unacceptable, and as MLA I will continue to advocate for meaningful action to resolve this situation.
I refuse to accept government inaction that allows conditions to deteriorate in a city that residents have worked hard to keep safe, clean, and welcoming. Salmon Arm is a community people are proud to call home, and we should learn from what has happened in other communities where encampments and homelessness have been allowed to grow without timely and effective action.
The Province owns the property. The Province coordinates the encampment response. The Province therefore has a responsibility to provide a clear plan. Residents should not have to accept an indefinite encampment while ministries continue to “monitor” the situation.
We should be compassionate toward those who need help, but expect responsible management of public property.
I will continue pressing the Provincial Government and the responsible ministries for meaningful action and a clear timeline.
Comments