The City of Penticton is disappointed by recent public comments from MLA Boultbee regarding the City’s response to the Fairview encampment. These remarks misrepresent the collaborative efforts underway to address a complex situation.
Statement from Mayor Bloomfield
“I was surprised to see MLA Boultbee disclose details from a confidential briefing, not an emergency meeting. I was in attendance at an RDOS Board Meeting and unable to attend. This briefing was intended to support ongoing efforts to bring resources and increased investment to Penticton. Sharing sensitive information and political commentary in this way is reckless and undermines trust and effective collaboration, potentially compromising provincial resources coming to Penticton through the Heart & Hearth program.
MLA Boultbee has been kept informed as required. However, municipal operational decisions and confidential discussions fall outside her scope. The encampment land in question is under provincial authority, and MLA Boultbee could have freely advocated on this issue in Victoria at her discretion.
We’ve been steadfast in our commitment to action – even if it appears slow. Progress takes time and these are complex issues. This matter does not come with a simple solution. To dismantle the encampment without a lawful or strategic plan to support its vulnerable residents would only do more harm to its residents and cause negative impacts to our community.
We have already seen what successful municipal-provincial collaboration looks like through the operation of the Temporary Winter Shelter, and we continue to work closely with the provincial government, BC Housing, ministry staff, and the snpink’tn Indian Band despite the complexity of this matter. The encampment is on land owned by the Ministry of Transportation, expropriated from the Penticton Indian Band and never returned. As such, it is not subject to municipal bylaws. We are advocating for a coordinated, legally sound response that respects all jurisdictions and community members. The work being done takes time and has seen substantial commitment from all participants.
The City remains committed to respectful, results-driven collaboration with all partners to address homelessness in Penticton.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the City test the water quality?
Interior Health is responsible for, and monitors, recreational beaches during the swimming season. Access to the sampling results, including three locations along the Okanagan River Channel, can be found here. More broadly, concerns relating to water quality as a result of pollution or contamination in waterways, can be reported to the Province at 1-877-952-7277 or via the online form.
What is the City doing about Crime in the area?
Due to the encampment being located on provincially owned land, municipal bylaws are not enforceable at the site. As a result, RCMP and Fire Services are the only agencies currently able to respond to incidents in the area. We continue to work closely with these partners to ensure public safety and respond to concerns as they arise. Residents are reminded to call 911 if they witness a crime or feel unsafe.
What about the economic impacts?
We recognize the encampment’s proximity to Highway 97 and the Channel, both key tourist areas which drives our economy in the Summer. We are working with partners to resolve the issue thoughtfully and safely before peak season.
