From exploring regulations for AI and data centres to supporting women survivors of domestic violence, the Kamloops City Council addressed a wide range of issues during its May 26 meeting.

Council also reviewed the new Let’s Learn Kamloops webpage, designed to address misinformation and improve communication with residents, as well as a partnership with Kamloops Pride to host a future Pride event.

New Bylaw Supports Housing Project for Women and Children Affected by Domestic Violence

Kamloops City Council unanimously approved the construction of a new apartment building for women and children who have experienced domestic violence.

The project, located at 871 and 873 Westminster Avenue, will consist of a 30-unit rental building, including 15 three-bedroom units, 10 two-bedroom units, and 5 one-bedroom units.

The building will be owned by the Provincial Rental Housing Corporation and operated by the Elizabeth Fry Society.

According to the non-profit organization, residents will receive long-term support services while working toward securing independent housing. Council’s committee voted unanimously in favour of the project.

Council Supports Development of AI and Data Centre Policy Framework

Kamloops City Council voted 8–1 to support a coordinated policy framework for AI and data centres.

Councillors Nancy Bepple and Dale Bass brought forward the motion, which calls on the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to advocate for a national framework addressing the impacts of data centres.

“There is a lack of national standards, intergovernmental coordination mechanisms, or municipal tools related to the impact of data centres,” Bepple said during the discussion. “Therefore, be it resolved that Council request the Federation of Canadian Municipalities advocate to the Federal Government for the development of a coordinated policy framework respecting data centres.”

The proposed framework would examine issues such as zoning, taxation, and infrastructure impacts associated with data centre development.

During the debate, Councillor Hall questioned what benefits large-scale data centres would provide to residents.

“What do we benefit as a community?” Hall asked, arguing that municipalities should receive meaningful economic and community benefits from future developments.

“As a community, we have to get a bit more savvy so we get more than just a data centre,” he added.

Let’s Talk Kamloops Website Aims to Address Misinformation

The City of Kamloops drew attention to their website called Let’s Talk Kamloops that is designed to provide residents with accurate information on topics that frequently confuse within the community.

The website explains issues such as development cost charges, local government processes, and public safety and security concerns.

City officials said the platform is intended to improve transparency and help residents better understand how municipal decisions are made.

The website also allows members of the public to submit suggestions and feedback, allowing residents to contribute to future discussions and city initiatives.

City Partners with Kamloops Pride for Community Event

The City of Kamloops and Kamloops Pride are partnering to host a Pride Open House on June 12 at the Sandman Centre.

The event is intended to promote inclusion, celebrate diversity, and provide an opportunity for community members to connect in a welcoming environment.