B.C. Municipal Leaders Tackle Homelessness and Housing Crisis

Municipal leaders from across British Columbia are gathering in Victoria for their annual convention, with a focus on pressing issues including street disorder, homelessness, and mental health. These topics have become critical for local governments, as they seek to address the impacts of these challenges on communities and businesses.

Trish Mandewo, president of the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) and a councillor in Coquitlam, emphasized the urgency of these matters. She stated, “It’s significant for our members, because we are hearing small businesses and communities all over the province are significantly impacted by the number of people living with mental health issues and addictions on our streets.” The UBCM represents nearly 190 local governments, including municipalities, regional districts, and First Nations.

Calls for Provincial Action on Homelessness

The convention will address a resolution sponsored by the UBCM’s executive, urging the provincial government to implement a “regional approach” to homelessness. This approach includes increasing funding and resources for supportive housing and shelter initiatives across the province. Local governments are advocating for more substantial provincial support as they strive to provide necessary resources for those living on the streets.

Mandewo highlighted the limitations faced by local governments in addressing these issues, stating, “The province isn’t doing enough for supportive housing, detox, and addiction treatments.” The provincial government recently appointed Dr. Daniel Vigo as B.C.’s first chief scientific adviser for psychiatry, toxic drugs, and concurrent disorders to enhance involuntary care under the Mental Health Act. Additionally, the government has announced plans to open two new secure facilities, adding a total of 28 beds for mental health care, as well as plans to renovate 280 outdated beds and create over 140 new beds in hospitals across the province.

Mandewo noted that Dr. Vigo will participate in a session to provide updates on involuntary care, an area of great interest for UBCM members who are eager to see actionable plans following the provincial government’s commitments made at last year’s convention.

Discussion on Land Title and Housing Supply

Another significant issue on the agenda is the recent B.C. Supreme Court ruling that granted the Cowichan Tribes title to approximately 7.5 square kilometers of land in Richmond. Mandewo described this decision as having “tremendous significance” for B.C.’s land title system, and the conference has invited legal representatives from the Cowichan Tribes, a local government lawyer, and a former deputy minister to provide insights on this landmark ruling.

Affordable housing remains a pressing concern as well. Mandewo pointed out that recent housing legislation allowing multiple units on single-family lots is increasing the costs of essential services like water, sewer, and roads. She stressed, “The province’s goal of increasing housing supply through their multiple-unit legislation cannot be achieved without a long-term infrastructure plan.”

The conference will feature a range of experts and provide opportunities for municipal officials to engage with provincial ministers and government staff. Notable speakers include leaders from all four parties represented in the provincial legislature, with Premier David Eby set to address the convention on the final day, September 26, 2025.

This annual gathering is crucial for municipal leaders as they seek collaborative solutions to the challenges facing their communities, aiming for impactful action from the provincial government.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on September 22, 2025.