B.C. city considers state of emergency to deal with rising crime, but not nightly curfew [Video]

A city in B.C.’s Central Interior is taking the unprecedented step of considering a local state of emergency due to public safety and crime concerns.

Williams Lake, which has a population of just over 11,000 people, has been struggling to deal with rising crime and helping those in the community with robust support and treatment services.

At a meeting on May 27, council voted to direct staff to investigate what the city can do in a state of emergency, including putting people into involuntary care if needed.

While law enforcement plays a vital role in public safety, lasting community wellness depends on collaboration from social services, health care, educators and community organizations, council heard in a report from staff.

The six most common risk factors in the community are suspected, unmanaged mental health concerns, lack of appropriate housing, the inability of residents to have their basic needs met, drug abuse or misuse, financial hardship and residents associating with negative peers …