Delegates were voicing both support and concern over the proposed Crises Response Pilot Project, which aims to address addiction and homelessness.

Deni Loubert – Local Journalism Initiative

On February 10th, council heard from five delegates, four of whom expressed strong support for the project. As British Columbia continues to grapple with a devastating toxic drug crisis—claiming over 14,000 lives since 2016—New Westminster has not been immune. Residents described firsthand the impact of addiction and homelessness on their lives, urging immediate action.

“I wouldn’t be alive today without harm reduction,” said one speaker, who shared their experience overcoming addiction with the help of safe consumption services. Others stressed the urgent need for safe spaces as overdoses continue to rise in the community.

However, the last delegate, David Brett, voiced deep concerns about the project’s effectiveness, arguing that it lacks a crucial component—involuntary care. Drawing from his own family’s struggles with addiction and homelessness, Brett expressed skepticism that voluntary services alone could address the crisis, stating, “Without involuntary care options, we’re not truly offering a way out for those in the deepest crisis.”

The discussion highlighted the divide between harm reduction advocates and those calling for more structured interventions. While supporters see the project as a vital step in saving lives, others worry that without mandated treatment options, it may fall short of its goals.

“The reality is, this crisis affects all of us,” said one resident after the meeting. “We need solutions that are compassionate and effective—because doing nothing is no longer an option.”

City council will now consider next steps as the debate over how best to respond to the crisis continues.