Crime, Safety, and Social Issues (Including Addictions)

“Focusing on Safety with a Strong, Independent Voice”

Tom has always been dedicated to ensuring the safety of the communities in Kootenay-Rockies. Crime and social issues have skyrocketed beyond what anyone expected, and Tom has been at the forefront, pushing for balanced and effective approaches to tackle these complex challenges. As an independent, Tom can now raise these concerns more forcefully and work across party lines to get the attention they deserve.

Pushing Back Against the “Revolving Door” Crime Problem

Under the NDP’s leadership, David Eby’s approach to crime has created a “revolving door” for prolific offenders, with a soft-on-crime strategy that is leaving small communities, like those in Kootenay-Rockies, vulnerable. The increase in crime has made streets unsafe, and the lack of adequate resources has only made matters worse.

Tom has worked to secure additional support and resources for local law enforcement, which is currently overstretched and understaffed. He continues to meet with local residents and businesses to hear their concerns and is pushing the solicitor general and attorney general to work with the Crown to address the growing crime wave.

Addressing Social Issues with Compassionate Solutions

When it comes to social issues like addiction, mental health, and homelessness, Tom recognizes that these are complex problems that often begin as health issues but escalate into larger concerns that impact the community as a whole. While these challenges require compassionate solutions, Tom believes that the current approach is lacking. He advocates for:

• Compassionate involuntary care as a last resort for individuals who may harm themselves or others, ensuring their safety while protecting the community.
• A balanced approach to mental health and addiction that ensures both individual and community safety.

Standing Against Racism and Political Polarization

Racism and discrimination are becoming more prevalent due to political polarization. Tom believes we need to restore a common sense understanding that brings everyone together instead of a “divide and conquer” political strategy. He advocates for policies that promote unity rather than division.

Opposing Decriminalization Without Proper Support

Tom is also a staunch opponent of the decriminalization of hard addictive drugs without the proper supports in place. He believes that decriminalization without treatment, prevention, and enforcement only exacerbates the problem.

Words matter—“clean and safe” in the same sentence with hard drugs such as heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine send the wrong message to our children. Tom advocates for a balanced approach to harm reduction that ensures individuals receive the help they need while keeping communities safe.

Finding Practical, Compassionate Solutions for Kootenay-Rockies

These are sensitive issues, but Tom’s independent voice allows him to push for practical, compassionate solutions that address the root causes of these problems without sacrificing the safety and well-being of the people in Kootenay-Rockies.