Campbell River has officially adopted a new community safety plan to guide city efforts over the next two years. The plan, which was approved by city council on July 24, outlines a total of 39 key actions to enhance safety, support vulnerable residents, and improve the overall quality of life for everyone in the city.
Out of the 39 actions, the city will directly lead 17 projects and initiatives. Several of these are already underway, including increased bylaw officer patrols and the “Re-imagine the Row” project focused on renewing the downtown area. These steps are part of a broader goal to make public spaces more inviting and improve community trust and connection.
Mayor Kermit Dahl stated that building a safe and healthy community has always been a key focus. He said recent efforts like downtown cleanups and outreach partnerships have already made a difference. The new community safety plan will strengthen this progress and help bring long-term improvements. According to the mayor, aligning local resources and working together with organizations will allow the city to make the biggest impact for residents and businesses.
A major priority in the plan is housing. The city aims to improve access to affordable homes and reduce homelessness. It plans to do this by teaming up with non-profit housing groups, private builders, and faith-based landowners. These partnerships will help create a mix of housing options, including low-rent units, second-stage housing, and even tiny homes on smaller lots.
The city will also look at how it manages land. A review of current land policies and inventories is expected to help unlock more opportunities for inclusive housing solutions. These efforts aim to give more people access to secure and stable homes, especially those most in need.
Revitalizing public spaces is another top focus. The city wants to make community areas feel safe, clean, and welcoming. This will involve working closely with local business owners. A new commercial revitalization campaign is in the works and builds on the city’s earlier “It’s time for Downtown” initiative. Plans include holding more family-friendly, alcohol-free events and using public funding in ways that can attract further private investment to boost the local economy.
The city says its approach to community safety is a broad one. It recognizes that safety is about more than just policing. Economic conditions, family life, and access to basic services all play a role. That is why the plan calls for long-term investments and partnerships across many sectors. Local groups, service providers, and residents will work together to help prevent problems and support people before issues get worse.
Another part of the plan aims to build stronger community ties. This means creating more chances for people to take part in civic life, join local events, and feel more connected. Special efforts will be made to reach young people and encourage youth involvement in local activities and leadership.
The plan also includes changes to the justice system. The goal is to build a more responsive system that supports prevention and healing. For example, the RCMP will expand its restorative justice program to deal with both youth and adult offenses. The city will also work with provincial and federal officials to find better ways to support people in conflict with the law, especially those who could benefit from diversion programs.
In its announcement, the city stressed that the community safety plan is more than a list of goals. It is a call to action for everyone—residents, leaders, service providers, and organizations—to play a part. Through this shared effort, Campbell River hopes to create a safer, more caring place for all who live, work, and visit there.
