Fort St. John mayor comments on drug decriminalization changes

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Fort St. John Mayor Lilia Hansen says she’s pleased to see the changes the province has made to its drug decriminalization pilot program but adds that more needs to be done to address the opioid crisis.

The province announced late last week that the rules for the program were being amended to re-criminalize drug use in public spaces, such as parks and hospitals.

Energeticcity contacted Hansen requesting an interview to get her opinion on the change, and she responded by providing a written statement.

“Decriminalization is a complex issue that requires compassion – we’re talking about the lives of real people with families, perhaps even within our own,” Hansen’s statement reads.

“It is clear that the province’s pilot program on illicit drugs hasn’t reduced the number of deaths from overdoses.”

Hansen says she’s heard from many residents and business owners in the community over the last year, through events like an open house regarding drugs and crime in February, about concerns surrounding decriminalization and the need for expanded mental health and addiction services.

“While we are pleased that the province has listened to these concerns about open drug use in public spaces and is taking proactive steps to ensure our community’s safety, we will continue to advocate for improved mental health and addiction support services in our region to address the complexities of this crisis.”

Hansen has advocated for the province to do more in the past, writing a letter in December advocating for the enactment of the Community Safety Act and its amendment, which would give the city more power to deal with “problem properties.”

Hansen’s letter started by saying Fort St. John and other communities have experienced an increase in criminal activity, which she claims is partly due to drug addiction and mental illness.

When the decision was announced on Friday, April 27th, Eby said the changes to decriminalization were being made in the interest of keeping B.C. residents safe. 

“While we are caring and compassionate for those struggling with addiction, we do not accept street disorder that makes communities feel unsafe,” he said.

“We’re taking action to make sure police have the tools they need to ensure safe and comfortable communities for everyone as we expand treatment options so people can stay alive and get better.”

When approached for comment about the decriminalization changes, Peace River North MLA Dan Davies slammed them as political posturing and called for a full end to the program.