A downtown store front that has been smashed. (Image Credit: Gallery Streetwear/Facebook)

By Vernon Matters staff

Collective advocacy

DKA calls for crime petition support

Mar 2, 2026 | 6:00 PM

The Downtown Kelowna Association (DKA), is calling on the business community to sign a petition to the federal government regarding crime, mental health gaps and the justice system.

It said Kelowna City Council has formally endorsed the public safety petition initiated by the City of Prince George.

Saying collective advocacy matters, the DKA said there needs to be stronger accountability for repeat offenders and bail reform.

In a statement, the DKA said the petition – e-7063 – calls on the Government of Canada to address systemic issues that municipalities are experiencing across the country, including:

• Amendments to the Criminal Code to strengthen accountability for repeat and violent offenders;
• Bail reform to address public safety risks posed by chronic offenders;
• Appointment of additional judges and prosecutors to reduce court backlogs;
• Increased federal funding for Crown Counsel capacity and correctional services to improve detention, rehabilitation, and release planning.

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The petition, to the House of Commons, is open until March 27.