(Image Credit: CFJC File photo)
Safety Survey

City of Williams Lake asks residents for input on public safety

Jun 18, 2026 | 11:51 AM

WILLIAMS LAKE B.C. — Residents, businesses and community members can have their say on public safety in Williams Lake through a Community Safety Information Gathering Session next month (July).

The meeting stems from a conversation on public safety during a regular council meeting on May 26.

According to the city, the public meeting is set to go ahead on Wednesday, July 15 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Gibraltar Room at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex.

“The session will provide an opportunity for community members to share their concerns and ideas related to public safety in Williams Lake,” said city officials.

“Discussion topics will include public space safety, homelessness, mental health and addictions, youth safety, personal safety, business and economic impacts, and other community safety issues.”

City officials said they are facilitating discussions to encourage respectful, collaborative and productive talks, meant to prevent personal attacks or criticism directed at specific individuals, organizations or agencies.

Williams Lake has also launched a Community Safety Survey, which residents are encouraged to complete before the July 15 meeting.

City officials said participants can share their perspectives on current safety challenges, areas for improvement and potential solutions. Surveys completed before July 10 will be compiled and presented at the community meeting.

“Input gathered through both the survey and the information session will help the city better understand community concerns, experiences and priorities related to safety in Williams Lake,” said city officials.

“The survey will remain open until midnight on Friday, July 31 to allow community members who are unable to attend the session an opportunity to provide input.”

The announcement comes shortly after Williams Lake City Council voted to put more pressure on provincial and federal governments for more action to address violent and repeat offenders.