Communities are left with a choice: step in, or let people fall through the cracks.
A commentary by a City of Colwood councillor.
Re: “New medical clinics are welcome, but province has to step up,” Comment, June 20.
Rob Martin’s recent commentary raises a valid concern about the downloading of health-care responsibilities onto municipalities.
However, his suggestion that Colwood and Langford’s actions represent a “dangerous inflection point” mischaracterizes the situation — and undermines the leadership shown by communities stepping up to meet urgent needs.
Let’s be clear: no one is arguing that municipalities should bear the burden of health-care delivery. But in reality, when thousands of residents are left without a family doctor and higher levels of government are slow to act, communities are left with a choice: step in, or let people fall through the cracks.
Colwood chose to act. The Colwood Clinic is not a replacement for provincial responsibility — it’s a stopgap and a community-led solution born out of necessity. To do nothing would have been to turn our backs on the very residents we are elected to serve.
Far from violating the Canada Health Act, our clinic was developed in close collaboration with Island Health and aligns with the regional Primary Care Network model. Prioritizing local residents doesn’t restrict access — it reflects a phased intake plan in a context of limited capacity. That’s not exclusion, it’s practical triage.
As for the argument that this creates a “third level of taxation,” it’s worth noting that local governments have always stepped in where senior governments fall short — whether in homelessness, mental health, or community safety. We do this not because it’s easy or inexpensive, but because our residents need solutions now, not years from now.
Colwood has not abandoned its responsibility to advocate for provincial investment. In fact, this initiative has strengthened our case for more co-ordinated, sustainable support. But while we advocate, we also act.
Let’s reframe this conversation. Rather than warning of a “two-tier system,” let’s focus on partnerships that work. Let’s recognize that when local leaders respond to gaps with courage and innovation, they deserve applause — not reproach.
Yes, the province must do more. But when municipalities lead with care, creativity and community at heart, that is not a betrayal of Canadian medicare, it’s the very essence of public service.
I’m proud of our council and our mayor for stepping up to meet a critical need in our community, demonstrating the kind of leadership that puts people first when it matters most.
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