Chamber stands by DVBA’s call for government action

The Chamber is always among the first to sing the praises of downtown Victoria, which is often recognized as one of the most beautiful and livable downtowns of its size in the world.

We’re also quick to point out the challenges it’s faced, and we stand by today’s report from the Downtown Victoria Business Association calling for urgent action.

“Our call is simple: all levels of government must act now. No more studies. No waiting on perfect solutions,” DVBA CEO Jeff Bray said today. “The focus must shift to supporting business owners, their staff, and their customers. The data is clear: downtown businesses cannot wait three to five more years. We need bold, immediate action in 2025, or we risk a wave of closures, job losses, and a dramatic erosion of downtown’s vitality.”

The report includes specific calls to action, including for municipalities to increase police presence downtown and enforce and strengthen bylaws that address disorder. The DVBA is also asking the province to expand mental health and addiction services, including mandatory care, and to strengthen the justice system. Federally, the call is to reform bail legislation to allow the pretrial detention of repeat offenders charged with theft, violence, drug-related offences and vandalism.