Protect Belongings. Reduce Waste. Follow Through.

Victoria already has a system for storing and returning belongings removed from public spaces. So why are usable possessions still ending up in the landfill?

De Facto’s recent investigation tracked two tents and a cart donated to people living outdoors in Victoria. All three ended up in the landfill, raising serious questions about how the City handles belongings seized during bylaw enforcement. Residents and advocates have raised these concerns for years, including during Marianne Alto’s term as mayor.

Victoria residents rightfully expect safe, usable parks and sidewalks. We also expect a bylaw enforcement service that handles people’s possessions responsibly. Essential belongings should be protected when temporarily impounded, not discarded like trash.

As mayor, I will promptly ask Council to direct the City Manager to review these practices, begin improvements within existing authority and bring forward recommendations for further changes no later than 60 days after taking office.

We must recognize that enforcement sometimes requires removing shelters and accumulated possessions from prohibited locations, or from parks where they remain beyond permitted overnight hours. Also, bylaw officers need workable rules, adequate resources and safe working conditions.

Clear directions and practical improvements

As mayor, I would set a clear goal: enforce the bylaws, protect essential belongings and use City resources responsibly. The review would:

• Identify improvements that can be made promptly under existing rules and authority;
• Draw on bylaw officers’ experience and advice from homelessness advocates and people directly affected; and,
• Explain what further changes would cost, what staff time they would require and how they could fit alongside other urgent City work.

Improvements could include clearer rules for discarded property, easier recovery of stored belongings and longer storage of important possessions. Staff should examine whether existing space, another location or an outside provider could improve storage and recovery at a reasonable cost.

Straightforward improvements should proceed promptly once authorized. More complex changes could begin with a small trial, with costs, staffing needs and results reported to Council before wider implementation.

A City Hall that follows through

Victoria has thoughtful residents, experienced staff and community organizations with practical ideas. Yet concerns about how belongings are handled have persisted for years. People want to see these and other concerns addressed properly.

As mayor, I will bring clear proposals to Council, seek firm deadlines for action and follow up on the results. The City Manager and staff would be responsible for implementing approved changes, with progress reported publicly.

Residents will know what changed, what it cost, whether fewer usable belongings were discarded and whether people could recover their possessions.

I will listen carefully, make timely decisions and see that they are carried through. That is the leadership I will bring to City Hall.

To make an informed choice, please read the priorities I will bring to City Council as Mayor, including action for unhoused people and homelessness in Victoria. On October 17, vote for a mayor who follows through. I’m asking for your vote.

We can do better, together.