Letter from C. McBeath Re: Issues Facing Communities in British Columbia

Sept 3 Council.

August 6, 2024

Dear Mayor Tobias,

I am writing to express my concern about the pressing issues facing our communities in British Columbia, as highlighted in a compelling 2 minute video, recently posted on the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) website, featuring President Trish Madewo. View on Youtube or at this Link: Action needed on homelessness | UBCM

In her address, President Madewo spoke passionately on behalf of UBCM members, expressing their deep distress and concern over the growing crises of homelessness, drug addiction, the alarming rate of drug-related deaths, the lack of shelters and affordable housing, insufficient health and mental health programs, rising vandalism, escalating policing costs, and the severe impact on small business owners. The urgent call for action was directed at Premier David Eby, emphasizing the need for immediate and effective solutions.

As a concerned citizen, I echo these sentiments and recognize the serious challenges our communities face. A significant factor that may be overlooked is the prioritization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in Canadian municipalities.

Programs aimed at achieving Agenda 2030, such as the *FCM-ICLEI Partners for Climate Protection program, are voluntary; yet require **extensive resources to conduct energy consumption and waste data collections, adoption of reduction targets, and a prioritization of expenditures to meet those targets. While preserving the environment is important, ensuring sustainable development policies do not inadvertently disrupt, restrict, or overshadow the immediate needs of the community should be considered.

It is crucial that our province and its municipalities place the well-being of its residents and the pressing urban crisis before the lofty goals of unelected international organizations.

Therefore, I recommend that municipal councils complete comprehensive reports to determine how much time, money and resources are being allocated to climate change-related initiatives, programs, and partnerships versus the immediate needs of the community. A disparity in spending would not be sustainable.

Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. I hope we can work together to bring about positive change for the good of all.

Respectfully,

Charleen McBeath

View Royal, BC V9B 1K5

References:

• https://fcm.ca/en/programs/partners-climate-protection ** https://icleicanada.org/resources