Thoughts on BC Politics and More

Housing providers need better tools to stop criminal elements creeping into supportive housing and taking advantage of a vulnerable population, says Victoria’s top cop, who argues police should be more involved in the early stages of housing decisions. Chief Del Manak, giving his final quarterly report to council before his retirement this year, said he wants to see the province strengthen the Residential Tenancy Act so operators can keep criminals out of supportive-housing facilities. “When you have safety compromised, that has to trump most other things,” Manak said. “[Housing providers] are asked to do a very difficult job. If they’re asking … [for] tools to help keep their location safe, keep their staff safe and keep residents safe, then we need to be listening to what their concerns are and working with them and giving them the tools they’re asking for" ... CLICK HERE for the full story

As the mental health and addictions crisis continues to wreak havoc on cities across BC, one frustrated Victoria business leader is calling for a rethink of the provincial mental health strategy – even if that means pulling people off the street and putting them in care against their will. “We have to take a look at the idea of involuntary care for some of these people who are no longer in a position to be able to care for themselves or make the right decision,” said Bruce Williams, CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce . . . . CLICK HERE for the full story