City addressing challenges for Kelowna businesses

News Release

The City of Kelowna recognizes the growing challenges Kelowna businesses are facing due to an increase in safety and social disorder within some areas in the community.

“Over the past two weeks, RCMP and Bylaw Services have increased their presence in the downtown core, City Community Safety staff have been connecting with businesses, and we are already starting to see progress,” said Darren Caul, Community Safety Director. “We continue to work with our community partners and local businesses to improve the situations in some parts of our community which have been experiencing acute issues related to social disorder and crime recently.”

To address these challenges and to support local businesses, the City of Kelowna is hosting a Community Safety Business Forum on January 27 to share information and prioritize solutions by bringing together business owners with City leadership, RCMP, and provincial representatives for a solutions-focused discussion on community safety. The session is open to Kelowna businesses affected by vandalism, disorder, crime, and other safety concerns, offering them a dedicated space to share experiences and shape priorities.

“Kelowna businesses have been clear about the impacts they’re experiencing,” said Caul. “This forum is designed to share information and work together to prioritize practical solutions that strengthen community safety.”

While this session is intended for business owners, Kelowna residents will be able to learn more and provide their feedback by visiting getinvolved.kelowna.ca from January 27 – February 10, 2026.

To learn more about the Community Safety visit www.kelowna.ca/communitysafety