Richmond voters among most vocal when it comes to changes in their city

In this year’s provincial election, voters in Richmond have been some of the most vocal when it comes to changes in their city.

Locals have gone as far as to rally against proposed developments, crime, drug use, and homelessness.

These areas have been at the center of intense debate, backlash, and friction between the City of Richmond and its residents.

One such incident happened last February when city council saw major pushback over the possibility of opening a supervised drug consumption site.

During a meeting, many shouted their safety concerns and chanted “no drugs,” leading to this heated comment from Mayor Malcom Brodie.

“I can tell you that I’ve been doing this since the mid-90s And that is the first time I’ve had that kind of a reaction here in a city council,” he explained.

The project was ultimately scrapped, but it shed light on some strong opinions on drug use in the city.

The community rallied again over the summer on a proposed supportive housing project that offered support for the city’s unhoused residents.

Locals claimed it would bring crime and drug use to the community.

Overall these incidents have shown that Richmond voters are fiercely opposed to any project that could increase drug use or crime in the city, and despite pushback, want thoughtful work to support the unhoused community.