Something has changed in Victoria.

Ten years ago, overflowing garbage, boarded-up storefronts, open drug use, and encampments would have been considered unacceptable. Today, many people simply walk past them. We have slowly adjusted our expectations.

That may be the greatest challenge facing our city.

When decline happens gradually, it becomes normal. We stop asking why problems persist and begin accepting them as inevitable. They are not.

Victoria remains one of Canada’s most beautiful cities, with remarkable natural surroundings, thriving neighbourhoods, outstanding educational institutions, and an entrepreneurial community. We should expect our streets, parks, and public spaces to reflect those strengths.

This isn’t about blaming vulnerable people or pretending complex problems have simple solutions. Homelessness, addiction, housing affordability, and mental health require compassion, investment, and coordinated action.

But compassion should never mean accepting conditions that are unsafe, unhealthy, or unfair—for those living on the street, for residents, or for local businesses.

Cities are shaped by the standards they choose to uphold. If we accept decline as normal, we will get more of it. If we expect better, and hold ourselves accountable for achieving it, we can restore confidence in our city.

Victoria deserves more than managing problems. It deserves solving them.