Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo MP Frank Caputo delivered a wide-ranging update and engaged in a robust Q&A with Kamloops City Council on Tuesday, touching on everything from federal housing support to bail reform, broadband infrastructure, and economic development.
In his first formal visit to Kamloops Council in nearly two years, Caputo emphasized collaboration between all levels of government, drawing on the theme of working together, which he noted was “wonderfully” highlighted earlier in the meeting with a quote from Henry Ford.
Caputo was joined by fellow of Kamloops-Shuswap-Central Rockies MP Mel Arnold and expressed appreciation for their shared efforts in representing the broader Thompson and Shuswap regions. “We are expected to serve our constituents to the best of our ability,” Caputo said. “That means listening, advocating, and pushing forward on the issues that matter most.”
Housing Accelerator Fund Frustration
Housing emerged as a top issue during the meeting, with several councillors expressing disappointment over Kamloops’ failure to secure funding through the federal Housing Accelerator Fund, despite two applications totalling more than $25 million.
Councillors Sarai and Hall both pointed to the city’s readiness to deliver housing aligned with provincial mandates, questioning why Kamloops had been passed over.
Caputo acknowledged their frustration, noting that his office has been in regular contact with federal Housing Minister Gregor Robertson’s office and that he personally sent a direct message to the minister this week.
“I will always be an advocate for infrastructure and housing in this riding,” Caputo said. “I’ve instructed my assistant to keep pursuing this — and I’m prepared to drive to Vancouver myself with council in a minivan if that’s what it takes.”
He pledged to follow up on Kamloops’ applications and review them with the Conservative housing critic to identify any possible improvements or overlooked opportunities.
Private Member’s Bill: Top Priority
Caputo also announced that he drew the top spot in the federal private member’s bill lottery this session — a rare opportunity that gives him a strong chance of seeing legislation passed. While still finalizing his proposal, he said it’s likely to address intimate partner violence or procedural barriers facing the RCMP, including the issue of “extensions for seized goods.”
Caputo highlighted his previous success working with MP Arnold on a bill to rename “child pornography” in the Criminal Code to “child sexual abuse and exploitation material,” calling it a “crucial shift in how we frame and address the crime.”
Bail Reform Demands Grow
Multiple councillors raised concerns about rising crime and bail policies they say have left communities vulnerable to repeat offenders.
Caputo, currently the federal Shadow Minister for Public Safety, reiterated his support for tougher bail conditions. “Bill C-48 was better than nothing, but on a scale of one to ten, it was maybe a 1.5,” he said. “There’s still a long way to go.”
Caputo also mentioned two prior bail reform bills he introduced and said he is consulting with Liberal MP Kamal Khera, who is drafting bail-related legislation. Caputo offered to invite Khera to Kamloops to hear directly from council.
Infrastructure, Industry, and Broadband
Councillors also encouraged the MP to consider Kamloops’ broadband capacity — often overlooked, they said — as an asset for attracting high-tech industries and innovation. Caputo agreed and asked council to submit a written list of its federal priorities, promising to attach his own letter of support and forward it to the federal finance minister.
Caputo floated the idea of forming an advisory board to explore attracting industrial investment to the region, particularly in areas like Ashcroft and Lytton with existing rail infrastructure. “We have untapped potential in this region,” he said.
Councillor Neustaeter raised concerns about unfunded federal archaeology requirements, especially for smaller communities trying to meet reconciliation and heritage mandates. She called for specific funding to support archaeological work, saying, “Good legislation still needs real-world resources to succeed.”
Caputo acknowledged the concern and invited council to include it in their pre-budget feedback.
Council Commends Caputo’s Engagement
Despite political differences, council members repeatedly thanked Caputo for his accessibility and hands-on approach.
“Every time we call, you pick up,” Councillor Neustaeter said. “You’ve been such a good MP to us, and we’re grateful.”
Council’s feedback will be included in Caputo’s pre-budget consultations, and he encouraged continued communication. “At the very least, we’ve asked. We’ve shown up. And now we push forward.”
Next Steps:
Council plans to submit a formal letter outlining Kamloops’ federal budget priorities, including support for housing infrastructure, broadband development, industrial investment, archaeological funding, and justice system reforms. Caputo confirmed he will personally deliver it to federal finance officials this fall.
Parliament resumes September 15.
