No More Excuses: Homelessness Exposes Leadership Failures in Parksville-Qualicum
- Admin
- 13 hours ago
- 1 min read
In the picturesque communities of Parksville and Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island, a persistent homelessness crisis is tarnishing the region’s reputation as a retiree’s paradise. Despite a recent point-in-time count showing 94 individuals experiencing homelessness—a slight decline from previous years—the lack of an overnight shelter leaves vulnerable residents exposed to harsh winters. Mayor Doug O’Brien of Parksville and Mayor Teunis Westbroek of Qualicum Beach, along with their councils, continue to deflect responsibility with tired excuses.
They tout the area’s prime location, excellent schools with high test scores, walkable neighbourhoods ideal for the elderly, and relatively affordable rents compared to larger cities. But these talking points ring hollow when the homeless line the streets and parks. High rents and low incomes may contribute, as provincial data suggests, but that’s no alibi for local inaction. Issues like mental health struggles and addiction are often blamed, yet the formation of a new Oceanside Homelessness Task Force in August 2025 feels like too little, too late.
The fact remains: If your city has people living on the streets, the mayor and council aren’t doing their job. Period. No amount of spin about community amenities can hide this failure. It’s time for real solutions—affordable housing initiatives, expanded shelters, and coordinated support—or step aside. Vancouver Island deserves better than excuses.
Robin Campbell
Manna Homeless Social
Monetary donations can be made by e-transfer to:
Or cheques can be sent to:
Manna Homeless Society
PO Box 389
Errington BC VOR 1VO
