Last month, I wrote a letter to the Richmond News questioning whether the cancellation of the supportive housing project at Cambie and Sexsmith was truly a “victory for public opinion.” The letter sparked conversations among community members, and now, I feel compelled to offer a deeper reflection on what this decision means for our city and the people who call it home—or, in this case, those who desperately need a home.

The Responsibility of Leadership

While local governments must consider their constituents’ concerns, they also have a responsibility to address pressing social issues. Homelessness is not just a problem for those experiencing it—it affects us all. It strains emergency services, impacts public spaces, imposes an economic burden, and diminishes the overall well-being of our community. A city that refuses to address homelessness in meaningful ways is a city that is failing to care for all its residents.

The Richmond City Council’s decision to cancel this project was a setback, but it should not be the end of the conversation. If this location was deemed unsuitable, what is the alternative? What is the long-term plan? We cannot simply say no without offering a better solution.

Elections and the Politics of Housing

With the federal election coming soon and Richmond’s municipal election approaching in 2026, we must ask: What are the major issues shaping these elections? Housing, affordability, public safety, and economic stability will undoubtedly be central topics. Candidates will make promises—some about building more housing, others about preserving neighborhoods, and some about balancing the needs of all residents. But what will the true victories be? Whose voices will be raised and heard? Who will claim victory, and who will truly benefit from these policies?

As voters, we must critically evaluate these promises. Are policies being crafted to address the needs of the most vulnerable, or do they mainly serve the interests of those already in positions of economic security? Is housing being treated as a right, or is it merely another political tool for securing votes?

Beyond local concerns, external economic factors also contribute to the uncertainty. Amid ongoing tariff and trade tensions between the United States and Canada—and even broader economic shifts worldwide—many experts warn that a recession may be on the horizon. Despite some debating economic forecasts, one reality is already clear: food bank usage is rising. More people in Richmond and across Canada are struggling to afford basic necessities, yet governments at all levels continue to face budget pressures. When cuts come, will they fall on the most vulnerable? Will funding for social services, food security, and housing initiatives be sacrificed in the name of fiscal restraint? These are the questions we must demand answers to as elections approach.

Moving Forward Together

If we truly want to create a Richmond that is inclusive and equitable, we need a collaborative approach—one that includes municipal leadership, provincial support, and community voices willing to advocate for real solutions. The conversation should not end with the cancellation of one project; it should inspire us to push for better, more sustainable housing solutions.

I invite you to reflect: What kind of city do we want to be? One that turns away from difficult challenges, or one that rises to meet them with compassion and courage? A city that turns away would leave its most vulnerable behind, while a city that rises would build a strong foundation for all its residents.

The work is not over. Let’s continue the conversation and push for a Richmond where everyone has a place to call home.