Why are we seeing a rise in violence in our community?

An increase in violence

What is going on with all of the violence that we are seeing of late?

Has it always been there and we are more aware of it because of social media and recording cell phones? Or Is it increasing?

We see violence on the news and in social media around the world. It is somewhat distant but still unsettling to witness the increasing levels of aggression and unrest.

In France, riots have become a regular occurrence, while the Ukraine-Russia war continues to devastate lives and displace millions. Even in New Zealand, a country typically known for its peaceful nature, protests and counter-protests have led to hostility and division.

But lately it seems like there is more violence even at home.

As a proud member of the Kelowna community, I cannot help but express my growing concern over the escalating violence we are witnessing in our city.

The recent attack on Gagandeep Singh, and the assault on a 15-year-old girl and her friend by a group of other teens this past weekend serve as stark reminders we cannot afford to be complacent in addressing the issue. It is crucial we come together as a community to understand and combat the root causes of this disturbing trend.

Violence is not the answer. Rather, it only exacerbates existing issues and creates more pain and suffering.

If this is true, why is there more violence?

It is clear a stronger focus on public safety is needed now more than ever. This includes investing in community programs, increasing law enforcement presence and working to address the underlying issues that contribute to violence. As a community, we must support these efforts and strive to create an environment where all our residents feel safe and protected.

So where do provincial politicians come in?

In Nanaimo last week, business owners and residents peacefully protested the lack of provincial supports and intervention. I think they are correct.

Our elected officials have a significant role to play in this process. It is their responsibility to listen to the concerns of their constituents and engage in meaningful conversations about the issues affecting our communities. They also give this feedback to the public safety minister, who can instruct the RCMP to increase its activities to protect public safety.

Despite a year of prodding by my B.C. Liberal colleagues, in addition to the general public, it is only in the last few months any action has been taken.

But there is more that can be done.

Government must be proactive in addressing the factors that contribute to violence. It is only through its leadership and commitment that we can hope to see real change.

As a community, it is time for us to wake up and recognize the urgency of this situation. We must come together to address the rising violence in Kelowna and beyond.

Let’s engage in open and honest dialogue, focusing on the root causes of these issues and work collectively to create a safer, more peaceful world for everyone.

My question to you this week is this:

Do you feel safe in Kelowna?

I love hearing from you. Please email me at [email protected] or call the office at 250-712-3620.

Renee Merrifield is the B.C. Liberal MLA for Kelowna-Mission.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.

Central Okangan needs better transportation planning

Efficient transportation

Kelowna is beautiful. We are known as a city with stunning landscapes, vineyards, golf courses, beaches and outdoor recreational opportunities.

But we are also gaining notoriety for an issue that is less favourable—severe traffic congestion.

Most who live in Kelowna, or those who visit, will talk about the traffic from Bridge Hill to the airport. As Kelowna's population continues to grow, traffic congestion has become an increasingly pressing issue. Long waits at intersections, bumper-to-bumper traffic during rush hours and frustration among drivers are now daily realities for many residents.

This congestion not only affects the quality of life for our community but also has a negative impact on the environment, as idling vehicles release harmful emissions into the air. One of the key factors exacerbating traffic congestion in Kelowna is the limited availability of public transit options.

For many residents, particularly those in outlying areas, public transit is either nonexistent or insufficient to meet their needs. As a result, more people are forced to rely on their vehicles for transportation, further increasing congestion on our roads. With limited public transit options and a rapidly growing population, it is crucial that we take proactive steps to address this problem before it spirals out of control.

Recently, the Ministry of Transportation released a report on possible solutions for the traffic problems in Kelowna. The report highlighted the urgency of addressing Kelowna's traffic congestion. Alarmingly, a second crossing of Okanagan Lake was not considered in the report, nor was funding allocated for any of the proposed projects. That indicates we cannot rely solely on the government to address this issue. The community must come together and advocate for proactive solutions.

I believe it is essential that we prioritize the development of alternative transportation options, such as expanding public transit, promoting cycling and implementing carpooling programs. By doing so, we can reduce the number of vehicles on our roads, thereby alleviating congestion.

But that is not the only answer. Our population will continue to grow and will need more options for both people and goods to move through our community. Thus, we must invest in infrastructure improvements that facilitate smoother traffic flow, such as synchronized traffic signals and improved road designs. These changes will not only help to reduce congestion, but will also make our roads safer for all users, including pedestrians and cyclists.

Finally, we must consider the long-term impacts of our choices today. As our city continues to grow, we must ensure we are planning for sustainable growth that takes into account the need for efficient transportation networks. This includes exploring the possibility of a second crossing, which could significantly ease traffic pressure on existing infrastructure.

As an example, a second crossing might be for specific zero-emission vehicles, rapid transit or light rail.

We must not wait for the situation to become untenable before we act. Rather, we must seize the opportunity to make a meaningful, lasting impact on the quality of life for our residents. The costs of ignoring the future and not planning for our infrastructure needs might be catastrophic. With thoughtful planning, we can ensure Kelowna remains a vibrant, prosperous community for generations to come.

My question to you this week is this:

Do you think that we need a future second crossing?

I love hearing from you, and I read every email. You can write me at [email protected] or call my office at 250-712-3620.

Renee Merrifield is the B.C. Liberal MLA for Kelowna-Mission.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.

Time to stop changing the clocks

Pick a time, any time

Liberal MLA calls latest B.C. budget 'missed opportunity'

MLA blasts budget

Last week was “budget week” in the Legislative Assembly — a week that is highly anticipated for many.

The provincial budget sets out the priorities of government and shows where your tax dollars will be spent.

This was also the first opportunity for new Premier David Eby to put his mark on the province and he had pledged bold action.

Sadly, there wasn’t anything bold in this latest budget document. In fact, this was really Budget 2022 — take 2.

Instead of addressing the real needs of British Columbians, it appears to be more focused on erratic handouts that won't change the lives of our residents.

This government’s plan prioritizes spending in areas that do not generate economic growth and failed to fund crucial areas such as housing, childcare, seniors, and mental health.

One of the most concerning aspects is the predicted decrease in revenue, while still increasing spending. The NDP have increased spending by 57% over the course of its time leading government, with the size of government increasing by close to 30%.

British Columbia’s population has only increased by 6%, with the economy only growing by 15%.

That means that more money is coming out of the taxpayers’ pockets and and an increase in the deficit, with less revenue being generated from industry. This type of spending behaviour is not sustainable in the long run and could lead to more significant economic problems in the future.

The provincial deficit took 104 years to get to $50 billion, but under the current government, it doubled in six years to more than $100 billion. Paying interest costs on the debt is going to be almost $3.3 billion, this year alone.

Think about what $3.3 billion dollars could deliver to British Columbians. Instead, it just goes to pay interest.

People who reach out to my office need relief. Continual taxing while spending those dollars on debt interest rather than programs is not the way to deliver that relief.

But are they spending on the areas that matter? Let’s look at childcare, an issue that is of concern to many in Kelowna.

The province isn’t spending any further provincial dollars on childcare, but rather using federal money. I agree with using the federal money, but when we are so desperate for more spaces, this budget falls short in creating more childcare capacity.

More childcare capacity helps our labour sector, our businesses, and our economy all while contributing to gender equality.

The budget also failed to address the housing crisis in the province, with a complete reversal on the promised building of 114,000 affordable housing units.

was a significant promise made by the government, and abandoning it is deeply concerning.

Housing is a basic need, and the government must take action to ensure that every British Columbian has access to safe and affordable housing.

Seniors were also completely missed in this budget, which is unacceptable given the increasing number of seniors in our province.

As I’ve addressed in earlier columns, many seniors in Kelowna live at, or below the poverty line. Many are making difficult choices, given the cost of inflation, about whether to skip a meal or turn the lights out.

Seniors in this province deserve better, and we need to ensure that they receive the care and support they need to live a dignified and fulfilling life.

The oft-promised rental rebate was also changed from a $400 direct payment to a tax credit. That relief for renters was first promised in 2017 — six years ago. Rents have risen significantly since 2017 and the $400 tax credit will be less than one month's increased rent for many during those six years.

Healthcare and mental health are other areas that were not given enough attention in this budget. There were no new metrics or initiatives for healthcare, with mental health only receiving funding for more supply of harmful drugs but nothing in the capital plan to build more capacity in treatment and recovery. That is unacceptable given the ongoing healthcare crisis in our province.

Budget 2023 was a missed opportunity.

My question for you this week is this:

What priorities would you want the government to spend money on?

I love hearing from you, and I read all of the emails that come in. You can email my office at [email protected] or call 250-712-3620.

Renee Merrifield is the B.C. Liberal MLA for Kelowna-Mission.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.