When it comes to ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone in downtown Kamloops, knowing who to call in an emergency or non-emergency situation can make all the difference. Whether you’re a business owner, a concerned resident, or just passing through, understanding the appropriate channels can ensure timely and effective support. From urgent situations requiring immediate intervention to non-emergency issues that still need attention, this guide will help you navigate the appropriate channels to ensure everyone gets the help they need when they need it most.
We encourage all downtown Kamloops members to review our Who To Call sheet and have it readily available in their business.
Crime imminent or in progress, active fire, medical emergency, mental health crisis/disruptive behaviour:
RCMP, Kamloops Fire Rescue, Ambulance, Integrated Crisis Response Team (formerly Car 40)
911
Substance Use Crisis:
Crisis response - Community-led CRCL (Monday - Friday 12pm - 8pm)
778-470-2725
Crime already happened, perpetrator is gone:
RCMP Non-Emergency
250-828-3000
Sleeping in front of businesses/blocking doors, encampments, blocking sidewalks, property conditions:
236-597-3157
250-828-3409
250-574-2447
Any issue - access and dispatch resources, drug paraphernalia pick-up:
Downtown Kamloops CAP Team (Available Monday - Friday 8am - 4pm)
250-572-3008
250-572-3009
250-372-3242 ext 104
Fire safety concerns:
KFR Non-Emergency
250-372-5131
Litter clean-up from streets & alleys, graffiti removal/coverage, drug paraphernalia pick-up:
Clean Team (Monday - Thursday)
250-376-2411
You can download our Who To Call sheet here.
The holidays are upon us, and there's no better place to get in the festive spirit than Downtown Kamloops! We're thrilled to announce our Holiday Shop Hop, an event that’s all about local holiday shopping, merry moments, and the chance to win $1,000 in gift cards to spend downtown! So grab your shopping buddies, put on those cozy winter scarves, and get ready to hop from shop to shop to complete your holiday checklist in style. This year's Holiday Shop Hop will run from November 17th - December 14th
What’s the Holiday Shop Hop?
Imagine a fun-filled day exploring the best of Downtown Kamloops – browsing unique boutiques, savouring holiday treats, and discovering exclusive offers at every stop. This isn’t your average shopping spree; it’s a holiday adventure! When you join the Shop Hop, you’ll receive a special “Holiday Shop Hop Passport” to collect stamps from participating stores as you go. With each stop, you're one step closer to winning the grand prize. Three stamps fill your passport, which is all you need to enter the draw for $1,000 worth of Downtown Kamloops gift certificates. Not a bad holiday haul, right?
How to Get In on the Fun
Every stop on the Shop Hop supports the small businesses that make Kamloops special. Your holiday purchases go a long way toward supporting our community.
So, mark your calendars, gather your friends, and let the Holiday Shop Hop begin! Downtown Kamloops has it all, whether you're on the hunt for one-of-a-kind gifts, a warm coffee, or just a jolly good time. See you at the Shop Hop, where shopping local means big holiday cheer and a chance to win big, too!
Participating Businesses:
406 Sportswear Ltd.
Brynn's Bakery
Caffe Motivo
Castles & Cottages
Crooked Crown
Desert Rain Giftware
Golden Buddha
Jardines Domaine
Jardines Domaine Home
Kamloops Florist
Kelly O'Bryan's Neighbourhood Restaurant
Kennell's Shoes
Lavender Lingerie
Main Street Clothing
Manhandler Barber Shop
Ms. Whimsy’s Gift Emporium/Rebel Vintage Clothing
Nutters
Red Wing Shoes Kamloops
Sakred SKin & Studio
Soul Stones
The Art We Are Cafe
Waitlist Hair Studio
Wild Cave Gift Shop
DTWN Night Market
The DTWN Night Market attracted an excellent turnout despite a brief rain shower. We extend our sincere gratitude to Misfit Night Market for co‑hosting and partnering in this event, as well as to our valued sponsors: ATS Traffic, Don’s Towing, Paladin Security, Kamloops Mazda, and Kamloops KIA.
We also commend the efforts of our over 70 vendors and outstanding local musicians whose dedication and talent contributed significantly to the event’s success. Thank you to all participants and supporters for making this evening exceptional.
New Mobile Crisis Team Now Operating in Kamloops
A new resource is available to you for people experiencing a mental health or substance-use crisis. The Crisis Response Community-Led (CRCL pronounced Circle) Team officially launched in late July. This mobile, community-led service, delivered by trained mental health professionals and peer workers with lived experience, provides trauma-informed and culturally safe crisis response for individuals aged 13 and up. The service runs Monday to Friday, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., and can be reached directly at 7784702725. With further expansion planned for 2026, including extended hours and weekend service, CRCL aims to reduce pressure on police and emergency rooms while offering compassionate, community-based care. It’s now on the new KCBIA “Who to Call” list.
Public Realm Improvement Projects and Opportunities
The KCA has already inspired some of the ongoing beautification efforts through the Public Realm Improvement Fund and our work with the City, ranging from lighting and banners to murals and placemaking. Several project proposals are before the City for consideration and vetting for this year, and due to the timing of the awarding of funding, our second cycle, including community intake projects is slated for this fall with new projects in 2026. We hope to have news soon for our 2025 projects. With your help we are creating a vibrant, welcoming streetscape that reflects the spirit of Downtown Kamloops.
Calling All Businesses: Join the Downtown “Winter Wonderland” Window Campaign
As we look ahead to the winter holiday season, the KCBIA is exploring an opportunity to bring more visual appeal to Downtown Kamloops with a winter window campaign. Local artist and window painter Laura Anne has proposed a coordinated window painting initiative for downtown businesses. The goal is to make participation affordable and accessible for all business sizes, from $75 for small window sets to $125 for multiple panes. Not only does this create a unified streetscape for the Santa Claus Parade, but it also offers a great way to attract foot traffic and social media buzz throughout the holiday shopping season. Please contact Mo by September 15th if you're Interested
Kamloops Centre for the Arts Update
The KCA is moving ahead under an Integrated Project Delivery model, that includes the City, architect, general contractor, engineers, and key trades as partners to design and construct the facility in the heart of Downtown. The group will present the design and cost estimates to City Council this fall, with groundbreaking anticipated later this year. At the KCBIA, we see this as a generational opportunity to support not only the creative industries and tourism but also our small businesses, who will benefit from increased foot traffic, evening activity, and year-round activation of the downtown core.
Advocating for Safer Streets: KCBIA Pushes for Coordinated Public Safety Reforms
As part of our ongoing commitment to creating a vibrant, safe, and welcoming downtown, the KCBIA continues to advocate for stronger public safety measures at all levels of government. Our 2025 priorities include immediate enforcement and, where needed, strengthening of local bylaws to curb disorderly behavior on sidewalks and alleys, along with increased police presence to support bylaw officers. Provincially, we are calling for expanded access to mental health and addiction services, increased involuntary care consideration, as well as a fully staffed justice system equipped to handle prolific offenders. Federally, we are urging reforms to bail legislation to allow for the pretrial detention of repeat offenders involved in theft, violence, vandalism, and drug-related crimes. These efforts reflect the concerns of our members and the urgent need for coordinated action.
BIABC Calls for Balance in Sick Leave Legislation
The Business Improvement Areas of BC, representing over 80 commercial districts across the province, including Downtown Kamloops, has submitted formal input on the proposed Employment Standards Amendment Act, 2025. The legislation would prohibit employers from requiring a doctor’s note for short-term absences. While BIABC supports this step to alleviate pressure on the healthcare system, it is also urging the province to review the financial impact of the mandatory five-day sick leave policy on small and medium-sized businesses. BIABC is advocating for solutions such as subsidies or rebates to reduce the burden on business owners, especially when covering shifts for employees on sick leave.
City Launches EPermit Project to Modernize Development Applications
The City of Kamloops has announced the launch of its new EPermit Project, a fully digital system designed to streamline building and development permit applications. Slated for full implementation by December 2025, the online platform will allow applicants to submit permits, make payments, and track approvals in real-time, all from the convenience of their devices. This initiative supports the City’s 2023–2026 Strategic Plan and aims to improve transparency, communication, and efficiency for builders, developers, and business owners alike. The City is currently seeking feedback and beta testers through a short survey, open until July 9
Free Workshop: Understanding the Commercial Tenant Improvement Permit Process
The Kamloops branch of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) is hosting a free workshop to help demystify the often-frustrating tenant improvement (TI) permit process. Designed for business owners, commercial realtors, and landlords, the session will be led by a City of Kamloops building official and will cover common causes of delay, zoning and code considerations, and change-of-use requirements. The goal is to help businesses avoid unnecessary surprises when renovating or opening new spaces. The workshop takes place Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 9:00–11:00 AM at the CHBA CI Office (202–929 Laval Crescent). Space is limited and open exclusively to CHBA CI and BIA members.
Free Workshop: Understanding the Commercial Tenant Improvement Permit Process
The Kamloops branch of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) is hosting a free workshop to help demystify the often-frustrating tenant improvement (TI) permit process. Designed for business owners, commercial realtors, and landlords, the session will be led by a City of Kamloops building official and will cover common causes of delay, zoning and code considerations, and change-of-use requirements. The goal is to help businesses avoid unnecessary surprises when renovating or opening new spaces. The workshop takes place Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 9:00–11:00 AM at the CHBA CI Office (202–929 Laval Crescent). Space is limited and open exclusively to CHBA CI and BIA members.
RCMP Says Property Crime Down
Kamloops RCMP report an overall 11 per cent decrease in property crime, comparing the first quarter of 2025 to the same period in 2024. The decrease is driven by significant decreases in break-and-enters to businesses (down 51 per cent), break-and-enters to vehicles (down 45 per cent) and vehicle thefts (down 28 per cent). Superintendent Jeff Pelley attributes the declines to the detachment’s strategic emphasis on bringing property crime down saying, “These efforts demonstrate our continued focus on prevention, enforcement, and supporting a safe, vibrant community.”
Enhancing Downtown Spaces
We’re excited to announce the launch of the Downtown Kamloops Public Realm Improvement Fund (PRIF), a new initiative made possible through a $1.25 million gaming grant investment from the City of Kamloops. Over the next five years, this fund will support projects that improve the aesthetics, functionality, and cultural vibrancy of our downtown core. From lighting and public art to wayfinding and seasonal décor, PRIF is designed to make downtown more welcoming and attractive for residents, businesses, and visitors.
In addition, KCBIA has opened its first community project intake form as well as issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for two key initiatives: the design and installation of new street pole banners and year-round decorative lighting along Victoria Street. For the community intake visit downtownkamloops.com to view the form to submit proposals before the July 15 deadline. These early projects will set the tone for initiatives to follow, and we encourage your participation!
Are You a Decider?
Our umbrella organization, Business Improvement Areas of BC (BIABC) is calling on the provincial government to prioritize small and medium-sized businesses in the upcoming BC Budget, particularly as uncertainty looms over potential US tariffs on Canadian products. BIABC is advocating for initiatives such as strengthening the local economy through expanded Buy BC programs, removing interprovincial trade barriers, and improving access to capital for business growth. As downtown Kamloops continues to navigate economic pressures, KCBIA supports BIABC’s call for policies that enhance business resilience and sustainability.
More Georges and Pattis
The KCBIA is proud to support the renewal and proposed expansion of The Mustard Seed’s Street Outreach Program, which has been key in fostering safety and compassion in our downtown corridor. Outreach workers George Murphy and Patricia Merriman have built trusted relationships with the vulnerable population while helping de-escalate situations and connect people to housing and health supports. As the program looks to expand its reach to other parts of the city, we have emphasized the importance of adding new resources rather than redistribution of the existing team’s coverage.
KCBIA Celebrates City of Kamloops Exemplary Service Award Recipients
The KCBIA would like to congratulate Ricky Marshall, Supervisor of our Customer Care and Patrol (CAP) Team, and Sheila Minten, KCBIA 2nd Vice President, on receiving 2025 City of Kamloops Exemplary Service Awards. Ricky’s leadership, dedication, and commitment to the safety and vibrancy of Downtown Kamloops have made a meaningful impact on our community every day. Sheila’s outstanding contributions to KCBIA governance, advocacy, and local business and development have been instrumental in strengthening our downtown. We are thankful for their outstanding service, and we are thrilled to see their hard work recognized by the City of Kamloops. Congratulations, Ricky and Sheila!
Congratulations to Our Federal Representatives
The KCBIA congratulates Frank Caputo and Mel Arnold on their victories in Canada’s federal election. We look forward to working with both MPs to support the vitality of our downtown business community. Key priorities we hope to advance together include addressing social disruption, tackling commercial crime, and helping mitigate the rising costs of doing business. Strong partnerships are critical to ensuring our downtown remains a safe, stable, and thriving place to live, work, and invest. We extend our best wishes to Mr. Caputo and Mr. Arnold as they begin their new terms.
Thank You for Your Feedback!
Thank you to all our downtown property owners, business owners, and operators who took the time to complete our recent KCBIA Membership Survey. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us shape priorities, advocate on your behalf, and deliver services that matter most to our community.
Key highlights include:
82% of respondents cited social disruption as a major concern.
65% identified the rising cost of doing business as a key barrier.
58% expressed strong support for expanded public realm improvements.
Your voice is helping to guide our programs, initiatives, and advocacy efforts in 2025 and beyond.
Help Shape the Future of Truck Routes in Downtown Kamloops
The City of Kamloops is reviewing the truck route network, and your feedback is critical to ensure that the needs of downtown businesses are heard. We’re seeking input on the following:
From your perspective, what are your top priorities related to goods movement in Kamloops?
What issues have you experienced with truck traffic in Downtown?
Did the 2024 Truck Route Pilot Project (Lansdowne and Seymour truck route removal) impact your operations? If so, how?
How could the Kamloops truck route network be improved to be:
Safer?
More efficient?
More reliable?
Less impactful on surrounding neighbourhoods?
Lorne Street Rail Project Underway to Support Whistle Cessation
Starting this month, the City of Kamloops will begin construction at the CN Rail crossings on Lorne Street to improve rail safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists which is a key step toward achieving future train whistle cessation. Upgrades will include new warning systems at 7th and 8th Avenues, reconfigured lanes, fencing, paving work and more. Increased rail traffic has led to more noise and train whistles, affecting nearby residents’ quality of life. Once safety improvements are completed and approved by Transport Canada, the City will be able to eliminate whistles at these crossings. Construction is expected to finish by fall of this year.
Supporting the 2025 Legion BC/Yukon Convention
This June 6–8, Downtown Kamloops will host over 400 delegates as the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #052 welcomes the 2025 BC/Yukon Command Convention. Local businesses are invited to support the event by submitting a business card-sized ad for the Legion’s commemorative program or by donating to their silent auction. Funds raised will help celebrate veterans and youth contributions to remembrance. To participate, email bcyukonconvention2025@gmail.com or call 250-374-1742 by May 7. Let’s show our community pride and support those who served!
Street parking is a limited resource, and its availability directly affects our businesses' ability to serve customers. To that end, we ask all downtown business owners, staff, and tenants to please leave street parking for customers. If necessity dictates parking on the street, please adhere to posted regulations, particularly time restrictions.
We all share a common goal: to create a vibrant and accessible downtown that attracts and retains customers. One of the most impactful ways we can support this goal is by maximizing access to convenient parking for our patrons.
Your cooperation helps ensure that downtown remains a welcoming, accessible destination for everyone and supports the overall health and success of our local economy.
Your Voice. Your Downtown.
Your input is essential in shaping Downtown Kamloops and supporting our business community. If you haven’t already, please take a few minutes to complete the Property and Business Owner Survey. Your insights help guide our advocacy, programming, and services. The survey closes on April 18th. Thank you for helping us ensure Downtown Kamloops remains a thriving hub for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.
You're Invited - KCBIA AGM
Property and business owners within our catchment area are invited to attend our Annual General Meeting on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 4:30 PM at the Plaza Station, 500 Lorne Street. All members are eligible to vote and stand for election to the Board of Directors. We encourage your participation.
Kamloops Centre for the Arts Moves Forward
Our umbrella organization, Business Improvement Areas of BC (BIABC) is calling on the provincial government to prioritize small and medium-sized businesses in the upcoming BC Budget, particularly as uncertainty looms over potential US tariffs on Canadian products. BIABC is advocating for initiatives such as strengthening the local economy through expanded Buy BC programs, removing interprovincial trade barriers, and improving access to capital for business growth. As downtown Kamloops continues to navigate economic pressures, KCBIA supports BIABC’s call for policies that enhance business resilience and sustainability.
Federal Election Forum – April 22
The KCBIA is proud to once again partner with the Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce, the North Shore BIA, and local media to host a Federal Election Candidates' Forum on Tuesday, April 22nd. The forum will begin with candidates from Kamloops–Shuswap–Central Rockies at 6:00 PM, followed by Kamloops–Thompson–Nicola at 7:30 PM. Watch your inbox for the livestream link coming soon. And remember to vote on Monday, April 28th!
If you have specific questions you’d like asked during the event, please email them to: communications@downtownkamloops.com.
Summer CAP Team – Now Hiring!
Crime and social challenges in our community are influenced by many factors, often leading to rapid fluctuations. According to the latest data from the Kamloops RCMP, commercial break-ins have dropped by 55% compared to the same quarter last year, while incidents of shoplifting have risen by 13%. In recent weeks, the KCBIA has observed a noticeable decline in homeless encampments in front of downtown businesses, likely due to February’s cold snap. Additionally, our CAP Team has reported faster and more effective responses from Community Services, which is making a positive impact. We would also like to extend our appreciation to the City of Kamloops for organizing an Outreach Networking event, helping to strengthen collaboration among service providers and stakeholders.
Welcome to Downtown Kamloops!
We’re excited to welcome Madok Developments to their new purpose-built office at 101–430 Lorne Street, beside Kamloops’ historic train station. Co-owners Kevin and Murray invite you to explore the space, meet their team, and join in conversations about the future of thoughtful, design-driven development. Created as a working showroom, the space showcases the exceptional talent of local tradespeople, artisans, and design professionals.
Do you know of a new business opening in Downtown Kamloops? Let us know so we can welcome them to our community!
Complex Care Coming
BC Housing and Interior Health have announced plans to build a 20-unit Complex Care Housing project within the Columbia Precinct. This 24/7 facility will provide wraparound services for individuals facing overlapping mental health, substance use, and complex health challenges, with construction expected to begin in 2026. While not within the downtown catchment, the KCBIA has long advocated for more treatment and recovery-focused initiatives in Kamloops and trusts that this development, through strong interface management, will strengthen the broader community without negative impact.
Promote Your Business in This Newsletter
Would you like to share your message with over 600 downtown businesses? Promote your event, announcement, or service right here. To learn more, email:
As a valued member of the KCBIA, your feedback helps us enhance the programs, services, and initiatives that support your business and improve your return on investment.
We invite you to participate in our Downtown Kamloops Property & Business Owner Engagement Survey. This short survey (approximately 10 minutes) gives you the opportunity to share your thoughts on what you need from your business improvement association. Your insights will help shape our priorities moving forward.
The survey will be open until April 18, 2025.
Thank you for your time and for being a key part of Downtown Kamloops’ success. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out.
$1.25 Million Before Council for Downtown Improvements
The KCBIA has submitted a $1.25 million public realm fund request as part of the City’s supplementary budget. This initiative aims to enhance public spaces, particularly as part of the Build Kamloops initiative and the anticipated development of the Kamloops Centre for the Arts. Proposed improvements include pedestrian plazas, public art installations, upgraded urban furniture, expanded green spaces, better lighting for safety and ambiance, and enhanced waste management solutions. These improvements are integral to making downtown Kamloops more vibrant and welcoming. The initiative would not impact the tax base as funding comes from gaming grants. Council is scheduled to vote on the supplemental budget item March 11.
Member Survey Announcement
Your voice matters! As we look ahead to the final year of our current mandate, KCBIA is launching an important Downtown Kamloops Member Survey to gather feedback that will help shape the future of our business community. This initiative will give you the opportunity to share what you want from your Business Improvement Association. Your insights will guide our advocacy, programming, and services to better support you. Watch your inbox for the survey in the coming weeks, and please take a few minutes to complete it—your input is essential in ensuring Downtown Kamloops remains a vibrant and thriving hub for businesses and visitors alike!
Tariffs and the BC Budget
Our umbrella organization, Business Improvement Areas of BC (BIABC) is calling on the provincial government to prioritize small and medium-sized businesses in the upcoming BC Budget, particularly as uncertainty looms over potential US tariffs on Canadian products. BIABC is advocating for initiatives such as strengthening the local economy through expanded Buy BC programs, removing interprovincial trade barriers, and improving access to capital for business growth. As downtown Kamloops continues to navigate economic pressures, KCBIA supports BIABC’s call for policies that enhance business resilience and sustainability.
Tariff Town Hall
You’re invited to a FREE town hall, “Navigating the 25% US Tariffs,” courtesy of the Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce Friday, March 7.
Crime and Social Disruption
Crime and social challenges in our community are influenced by many factors, often leading to rapid fluctuations. According to the latest data from the Kamloops RCMP, commercial break-ins have dropped by 55% compared to the same quarter last year, while incidents of shoplifting have risen by 13%. In recent weeks, the KCBIA has observed a noticeable decline in homeless encampments in front of downtown businesses, likely due to February’s cold snap. Additionally, our CAP Team has reported faster and more effective responses from Community Services, which is making a positive impact. We would also like to extend our appreciation to the City of Kamloops for organizing an Outreach Networking event, helping to strengthen collaboration among service providers and stakeholders.