I don’t know how to start this. I’ve never been the one to start anything. But something needs to be said and done.
I’ve made Prince George my home for the last 11 years, moved here from Smithers at 19 years old.
When I got here, I didn’t have a license so I walked everywhere. Took a bus when I could. It used to not be a problem, even walking to a job at 4 a.m.
Over the last two years there have been dozens of incidents -- fires, homicides, drug activity -- directly in the path of my day to day life, that now I don’t feel so safe anymore. I’ve changed routes to work a handful of times due to murders at places I pass.
I manage a business down on First Avenue, a few blocks from the courthouse. The amount of needles and garbage I pick up and fence repairs I need to do is becoming insane. I’ve had to hire after hours security just to ensure the safety of my building. I’m spending thousands of company dollars yearly to maintain this place.
I get it. I do. I grew up with my parents helping young women and their children escape drugs and abuse. I know that not every unhoused person is addicted to drugs and are just in hard times. I know Moccasin Flats isn’t safe for everyone, either.
I know the cycle, I know how hard it is to escape without resources. Those resources seem impossible to get for those that want them.
We don’t have enough affordable housing, our healthcare system is so bogged down that providers have to essentially pick and choose who gets to go first. It’s either who’s the most sick or who’s got the most money.
We need less luxury apartments and designer malls. A pretty paint job and fancy new signs won’t bring people to Parkwood Mall.
We need to be able to support local businesses and we can’t do that if people don’t feel safe leaving their vehicles downtown.
Myself? I’m 30 years old now and in the process of getting my license, then a vehicle, just so that I don’t have to walk anymore. To keep myself from being the next homicide on the headlines.
Mayor Simon Yu and the City of Prince George, I’m calling on you to answer this question: When is enough, enough?
Chey Bulley
Prince George
