A letter sent to city council this morning requesting a public town hall meeting:

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Dear Mayor, Council, and CAO,

Kamloops is at a critical juncture, and recent events have made this reality impossible to ignore.

In just 24 hours this past weekend, there were four separate fires in and around the city-not including rubbish bins being set alight downtown. With 2 causes as yet unknown; the 2 fires in Kenna Cartright and near Schubert Drive share a common denominator: the drug-addicted homeless.

These fires must serve as a warning to city hall. Our city is surrounded by dry forests and grassland, and we are entering the peak of wildfire season. Gusty winds or a delayed response could transform a small blaze into a citywide emergency. The potential for loss of life, property, and natural space is real-and it’s increasing.

Meanwhile, the city’s approach to housing and homelessness remains unchanged, despite growing public concern. Kamloops already provides over 500 beds, yet, BC Housing now plans to add 60 more. These include 20 supportive housing units for men facing untreated addiction and mental health issues, to be located immediately beside a seniors’ residence. The remaining 40 beds, designated for homeless seniors, are also proposed nearby. Experience has taught residents to be cautious of shifting promises: facilities like Emerald House were intended for women and children fleeing violence, but have never been used as such.

As well, an FOI request of communication around housing targets between some BC municipalities and BC Housing show pushback from other city councils-except ours. This speaks volumes.

Residents have voiced their concerns—loudly and clearly. At the recent Glenview open house, citizens expressed deep frustration with a system that seems broken and unaccountable. Fires, crime, and fear have become part of everyday life for many in Kamloops. Our front-line workers are stretched thin, and taxpayers are left to manage the fallout of policy decisions made without their direct input.

In light of this, Kamloops Citizens United formally requests that City Hall organize a genuine, public town hall meeting on behalf of concerned residents. We are not asking for another open house where officials stand behind posters and avoid open dialogue. We are calling for a transparent forum—one where city leaders, BC Housing representatives, and relevant decision-makers engage with the public, respond to unscripted questions, and take responsibility for the outcomes of their policies.

The people of Kamloops deserve to feel safe and be heard; and our elected officials have a duty to listen directly, openly, and respectfully.

We urge you to act swiftly; and kindly request a confirmation of receipt of this email within the week, as a subsequent fire may not be as forgiving.

Sincerely,

Kamloops Citizens United