The Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce is suggesting a shift in the city's collective response to crime and homelessness in the community, calling for practical and respectful solutions with the full commitment of governments and service providers.
Discussion of a possible state of local emergency in Williams Lake has drawn attention to the seriousness of the situation, but is having an affect on tourism and workforce recruitment, said Williams Lake chamber executive director Tamara Garreau.
"Hotels, campsites and the Visitor Centre have all reported receiving questions about whether Williams Lake is a safe place to visit," Garreau told the Tribune in an emailed response dated Friday, June 20.
During the city's May 27 regular council meeting, Coun. Scott Nelson brought forward a memorandum proposing the city declare a state of local emergency.
Nelson also requested implementing a curfew from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. and for any individuals displaying public intoxication or severe mental health issues to be escorted to the hospital for review of involuntary treatment, as well as RCMP arresting anyone breaking the law and escorting unhoused persons to shelters or other facilities.
Council referred Nelson's memorandum to city staff for a recommendation, with some adjustments - the idea of a curfew, which would be legally and constitutionally difficult to pass, was rejected. At a June 3 special meeting, council voted against declaring a state of local emergency.
The six-to-one decision in favour of not declaring a SoLE came after the city received an email from the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General promising increased RCMP supports from the province.
After the vote, the Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce submitted a statement to mayor and council on June 13 to share ongoing concerns about public safety and the impact it is having on local business.
The statement noted while council ultimately voted against the declaration of the SoLE, the issue has already affected the community’s reputation, particularly in tourism and workforce development.
“We want to be clear, the concerns around crime and safety in Williams Lake are real and serious,” reads the statement. “These challenges are impacting local businesses, residents, and the confidence of those considering investing in or visiting our community.”
Williams Lake is not alone, the Chamber noted, adding many communities across the province are facing similar struggles with increased criminal activity and visible homelessness.
“These are complex, province-wide issues that require coordinated and well-supported responses.”
Business owners, the chamber said, are often on the frontline facing situations involving individuals who are in crisis because of mental health issues, substance use or housing insecurity.
"These issues require professional care, not the day-to-day intervention of small business operators," the chamber said. “While many are responding with empathy and patience, they should not be expected to manage these situations without training, support, or proper resources.”
Suggesting the city revisit its community safety plan, the chamber said a renewed look at the plan could help clarify how it’s being implemented and whether some changes could be made to improve outcomes.
“The Chamber remains committed to advocating for the safety and success of our business community,” the statement noted. “We are calling for practical, respectful solutions that ease the pressure on local businesses and ensure everyone feels safe and supported. These problems cannot be solved in silos. They require leadership, coordination, and the full commitment of every level of government and service provider.”
The chamber also said it supports long-term, collaborative efforts like its recruitment and retention strategy, where the city has been a foundational partner.
"These initiatives help attract and retain skilled professionals, create economic stability, and strengthen our community. However, public talk of declaring a state of emergency, even without following through, can undermine this progress and damage the perception of Williams Lake."
Garreau told the Tribune the chamber commended council for taking quick action and showing leadership in challenging times.
“We brought the statement forward at our general meeting this week and received both input and support from our members," she said in her email, adding the chamber remains committed to working with the city, the province and other partners on long-term solutions, and will continue to speak up for the needs of the business community.
Responding to the chamber's statement, Coun. Scott Nelson told the Tribune Friday he thinks everyone wants the same thing - a community that's "safe, thriving and busy."
"There are too many people with mental health issues running around our streets that simply shouldn't be there and all this chitter chatter of long-term strategy simply has the public and business owners very, very frustrated and I agree with them," Nelson said.
Nelson also told the Tribune tourism numbers are up over last year at the tourism centre.
Garreau, however, said in early spring our numbers were looking great.
"I looked at the numbers compared to this time last year and foot traffic is down three percent and we are open seven days per week when we were not last year. Businesses in the tourism are working hard to mitigate concerns and telling potential visitors that's it's safe to come here," she said.
Recently the chamber, in partnership with the Downtown Business Association, launched a survey for members about crime and public safety to hear directly from businesses.
Feedback received through the surveys will help shape the ongoing advocacy and next steps.
With files from Ruth Lloyd
