The homelessness crisis in downtown Kelowna, B.C., has become increasingly visible, affecting both the unhoused population and the surrounding community. George Greenwood, CEO of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, noted that the homeless are not hidden but are commonly seen in public spaces, such as main streets and parks. This visibility has prompted concerns from local businesses regarding an uptick in issues like loitering, public drug use, and vandalism. Greenwood observed that, although it might seem like the unhoused population has increased, they have merely relocated from one area, particularly the outdoor sheltering site or “tent city,” to other parts of downtown.
In late March, the city implemented significant changes at tent city to address safety concerns. These alterations included reducing the number of allowed tents to 60 and designating certain areas as overnight-only. Such measures appear to have prompted individuals who previously utilized the site around the clock to venture into downtown. Local businesses have noted an increase in crime-related problems since these changes were enacted. For instance, a violent incident at Train Station Pub, which involved a patron throwing a glass bottle at the establishment, pushed the owners to start an online petition urging provincial authorities to take action.
Other businesses, like the Metro Liquor Store, have mirrored these sentiments, reporting heightened issues with loitering and public drug use. Staff members expressed concerns about patrons being disturbed in the parking lot due to the growing presence of unhoused individuals. The overall environment has become more uncomfortable for business operations, prompting owners to call for a more serious approach from local and provincial officials. David Lindsay, co-owner of the pub, highlighted the ongoing need for actionable support beyond what has been offered in previous discussions.
The city officials acknowledged the challenges presented by recent changes to tent city, with Nick Bonnett, the city’s bylaw services supervisor, admitting the adjustments have had an impact on the downtown area. However, he emphasized that this timing coincided with typical seasonal patterns of movement within the homeless community, suggesting that the increase in visibility might stem from natural fluctuations rather than solely from policy changes. Bonnett’s insights illustrate the complexity of homelessness, where various factors intersect, making solutions challenging.
While local businesses express their concern, there is also recognition of the city’s efforts to address the issue within the constraints of its resources. Greenwood affirmed the commendable initiatives taken by the city but underscored that more substantial support is necessary from higher levels of government. He believes that the long-term solution to homelessness requires collaboration at the provincial and federal levels, as local municipalities often have limited power and resources to enact meaningful change alone.
In addressing the homelessness crisis, the provincial ministry of public safety and solicitor general noted that it is working with local stakeholders to improve safety in communities across the province. Officials have engaged in discussions with both local government and business representatives about homelessness in Kelowna, indicating a willingness to collaborate on addressing the issue. However, the situation remains complex, as immediate impacts from homelessness continue to challenge the downtown community, highlighting the critical need for comprehensive strategies and sustained commitment from all levels of government.
