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.