I recently read the July 18th article discussing a “rebranding” of Prince George, and what struck me as peculiar was a disturbing trend in city politics. Arthur Williams, wrote of the ‘status quo,’ the city has maintained on the downtown encampments. Now of course the one thing that most want to see is full time care facilities, where residents can find not only a safe place to sleep, but also allow for access to proper treatment and health services. Municipal governments obviously do not have the authority, to take these projects directly into their hands (that’s the province’s legal right). Yet, municipal governments can take the prerogative in different ways.
Whether it be freeing up land for the province to develop on, work in conjunction with the province regarding funding of housing/health schemes, or what is more (and politically riskier) speak up and demand the provincial government do more in funding mental health services.
The 2022/2023 provincial budget earmarks only $4 million more towards the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions (bringing total spending to $25 million), which is to remain as a constant until the 2024-2025 budget. If they’re serious about defeating what is one of the most pressing issues facing our people right now, which has killed thousands of our fellow citizens. Then this would be the ministry I would be rushing to fund.
Though enough about the province, this isn’t about them. One question I have though, is why our local politicians aren’t more vocal towards the provincial government about what we need as a city?
So, when I read the article today about rebranding, I was kind of surprised. Though I am not diametrically opposed to the idea of “brand,” as it can in fact change the vibe of a city and attract new residents. In the age of the influencer, I would advice not to become absorbed in the pursuit of image and how others might view us from afar. We must remember it is not about peacocking and hoping that coverup may hide the wrinkles that lie underneath. Rather it is about the long, dry, hard, and politically uncertain work that needs to be done so we can best help our countrymen/women who are suffering the most right now.
Sam McLaren
Prince George
