File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By James Peters

Kamloops Council

Kamloops council report to province highlights ongoing saga of dysfunction

May 6, 2025 | 10:41 AM

KAMLOOPS — A report Kamloops council sent to Municipal Affairs Minister Ravi Kahlon earlier this year sheds new light on the governance issues the city has experienced during this term.

Kahlon requested the report in December, asking council to update him on its progress implementing recommendations municipal adviser Henry Braun made earlier in the year.

The progress report was sent to Kahlon in February and was at the heart of council’s meeting with the minister when he visited Kamloops on April 23.

An overview of the report is now published on the City of Kamloops website.

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It says independent investigations have substantiated 24 complaints of inappropriate behaviour on the part of Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson, “including findings of bullying and harassment, resulting in legal risks and workplace claims.” The report notes some of the complaints were substantiated by WorksafeBC, though the city says it is barred from detailing those investigations.

The city also reports Hamer-Jackson committed 21 breaches of privacy and multiple breaches of council’s Code of Conduct.

The report notes the mayor has not been present at nearly half of council’s closed or special meetings since the term began in 2022, including all closed meetings since last August.

Council concludes the problems have resulted in a seven-figure bill to the taxpayer.

“The mayor’s actions have led to escalating legal costs and resource strain, with taxpayers bearing the burden of an estimated more than $1 million in additional expenses halfway through his term,” notes the city’s website.

While council outlines its efforts to implement Braun’s recommendations, it calls on the province to take further steps to help municipalities.

“With escalating costs and limited legislative tools to address misconduct, council urges the province to introduce reforms that empower municipalities to safeguard operations, protect staff, and uphold public trust. This critical issue presents an opportunity to implement meaningful legislative change that ensures communities like Kamloops can function effectively and sustainably.”