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Cranbrook, BC (February 7, 2024) -- Across Canada cities are experiencing change in the social landscape leading to local governments evaluating their role in addressing social issues.  Recently, Cranbrook City Council approved the formation of a Mayor’s Task Force to help facilitate this process.

This task force is a diverse group of community leaders from across all sectors.  It is a time-limited, solution-oriented initiative working to advance the safety, inclusion, and social and economic wellbeing of all members of the community through the lenses of prevention, accountability, pathways out of poverty, and participation/reintegration back into community. 
 
On January 31, 2024, the Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness and Community Safety and Wellbeing met for the first time.

The Task Force consists of:

A.    Municipal Government

• The Mayor 
• 1 City Councillor

B.    City Staff

• Bylaw Manager
• Social Development Coordinator
• Fire Prevention Coordinator

C.    “At Large” Community Members

• 1 Business Owner Representative
• 2 Non-Profit Representatives
• 1 Social Justice Academic Representative
• 1 Chamber of Commerce Representative
• 1 Faith-Based Representative
• 1 Interior Health Representative
• 1 Medical Representative
• 1 Social Development and Poverty Reduction Representative
• 1 RCMP Representative

D.    Project Facilitator

The initial meeting was an opportunity for participant introductions and to review and modify the Terms of Reference under which the task force will function.

Meetings will happen twice a month and accountability will be demonstrated through progress reports back to Mayor and Council every two months.

Communication to the community will occur through the City website after every meeting. Learn more about the Task Force On Homelessness by visiting – https://cranbrook.ca/our-city/mayor-and-council/committees/.

The Task Force is committed to working efficiently and effectively to create changes that demonstrate Cranbrook truly is a community that cares.