The British Columbia government is taking action to help communities deal with urgent challenges and partnering with local governments to make life better for people throughout B.C., Premier John Horgan announced today in a speech to the Union of BC Municipalities.

“Local governments are on the front lines of big challenges facing people and communities. But for too long they haven’t been given the help they need,” Horgan said. “We’re listening and working in partnership with local leaders to find solutions and respond to urgent issues like wildfires, housing and the overdose crisis.”

In his speech to UBCM, Horgan laid out concrete actions to save lives and deliver support to the front lines of the overdose crisis, focusing on public awareness, harm reduction, outreach, enforcement and help for people who need it the most. Horgan also committed to continued support for wildfire recovery and stepped-up delivery of safe, affordable housing for people, including the construction of 2,000 modular housing units around B.C.

The new government renewed its commitment to invest in transit and transportation, create jobs for people in traditional industries, like forestry and mining, and support further growth in the technology and innovation sector.

Horgan also pledged support for community bids for the new Amazon headquarters, and promised to make sure every region of B.C. shares in the opportunities of the emerging economy.

“We need to come together with all levels of government to support communities, create good jobs and help people when they need it most,” Horgan said. “Our government is getting to work building a better B.C. and we’re working with local governments to get it done.”