Your trusted source for local North Vancouver, BC news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Unregulated drug toxicity deaths in British Columbia reached 145 in May and 147 in June 2025, with 69% of victims aged 30 to 59. Fentanyl was detected in 70% of cases, highlighting ongoing substance abuse challenges in the province.
A $23.2 million contract has been awarded to Emil Anderson Construction Inc. for long-term stabilization of the slope along Highway 97, following a rockslide in August 2023. Construction will begin in fall 2025 and aims to restore the highway to its original four-lane configuration while enhancing safety for Okanagan residents and visitors.
Construction has started on new classrooms in seven British Columbia schools, adding nearly 1,500 student spaces to accommodate growing communities. The Province has invested approximately $119 million in these projects, emphasizing the importance of modern learning environments.
British Columbia has launched a new counter human trafficking unit (CHTU) to enhance the detection and prosecution of human trafficking crimes while providing support for victims. The 12-member team will collaborate with local police and agencies to strengthen investigations and training. This initiative is part of a broader provincial effort backed by a $230 million investment to combat organized crime.
The Province of British Columbia and the City of Powell River are collaborating to establish a new 40-bed temporary shelter to address homelessness. This initiative aims to enhance shelter capacity and provide essential services, including meals and health support, to those in need. If approved, the shelter is expected to open this winter.
British Columbia officials urge residents to prepare for heightened wildfire risks as the B.C. Day long weekend approaches, with 62 active wildfires reported. Heat warnings are in effect, and open burning restrictions are implemented in many areas to mitigate fire hazards. Residents should stay informed about local conditions and adhere to fire safety practices.
Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals Jagrup Brar confirmed the successful rescue of three workers at the Red Chris mine in northwestern British Columbia. The announcement follows a series of significant developments in the mining sector, including the official opening of Dome Mountain gold mine and a tripartite agreement to resolve conflicts over mineral tenures in the Tŝilhqot’in territory.
The Province of British Columbia is allocating nearly $2 million to enhance evacuation routes and public notification systems in 51 communities. This funding, administered through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, aims to improve emergency preparedness and resilience against climate-driven hazards.
Lake Babine Nation expanded its forest tenure from approximately 5,600 hectares to over 126,000 hectares through a partnership with the Province and West Fraser. This collaboration enhances local forestry practices, supports economic development, and promotes ecological sustainability in the region.
Construction has started on a new BC Cancer centre in Kamloops, enhancing local access to cancer care for the Thompson-Cariboo-Shuswap region. The facility will provide advanced radiation treatment and is expected to handle approximately 16,500 treatments annually. This $386 million investment aims to reduce patient travel and improve health outcomes.