Frank Caputo says a new regional economic council is already generating momentum after its first roundtable meeting brought together business and community leaders from across the riding on Tuesday.
The inaugural session, held at the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce, gathered roughly 20 representatives from communities spanning Kamloops, rural areas, First Nations and regional districts within Kamloops–Thompson–Nicola.
Caputo described the meeting as a “wonderful start” toward building a coordinated approach to economic growth in the region.
“We had people highlight both the positives — what’s bringing jobs — and also where we can improve,” Caputo told reporters following the meeting. “The goal is simple: how do we attract more industry, bring in more jobs, and keep the jobs we already have?”
Key issues raised
While some concerns were expected — including bureaucracy, red tape and broader economic pressures — others caught participants off guard.
Among the top issues discussed were tax structures affecting small businesses, transportation gaps in smaller communities, and access to child care — all of which attendees said influence whether workers and employers choose to settle in the region.
Caputo noted that even seemingly small services, such as taxi availability in rural areas, can have an outsized impact on economic development.
“These are the types of things that really impact whether someone decides to settle here,” he said.
Trades and labour shortages were also a major theme, with discussions focusing on how to attract and retain skilled workers and ensure wages remain competitive across the region.
Regional voices at the table
Margot Middleton, serving as deputy mayor for Kamloops for April, said the session stood out for its regional scope and diversity of perspectives.
“I think it was really good because it was truly a regional representation of lots of interest holders,” Middleton said. “Kamloops is a hub, but our region supports the city — so it was great to hear from a lot of different areas.”
She added that the discussion differed from typical municipal meetings by focusing on broader economic challenges rather than city-specific issues.
“Because it’s regional, it’s speaking more to general economic issues and not just specific to Kamloops,” she said. “We all have different needs and deficits in our communities, so it was a great chance to bring those forward.”
Middleton said the meeting was primarily an opportunity to listen and share perspectives, rather than deliver a formal message on behalf of the city.
“This was a little bit of listening and input,” she said. “If this continues, I think the city would look to come forward with something more formal as a group.”
Positive outlook despite challenges
Despite the range of concerns, Caputo emphasized that the overall tone of the meeting was optimistic.
“The energy in the room was very positive,” he said. “People love this community and want to make it better.”
He added that future meetings could include targeted outreach to industries and investors, positioning Kamloops–Thompson–Nicola as a destination for business expansion.
Competing for investment
Caputo acknowledged the region faces competition from nearby economic centres but pointed to key advantages, including available industrial land and transportation infrastructure.
He highlighted the inland terminal in Ashcroft — the only location in Canada where the country’s two major railways converge — as a strategic asset that could help attract new industry and improve goods distribution.
“This is a great place to live, and it should be an even better place to do business,” he said. “We want people to bring their businesses here — they will be welcome.”
What comes next
The structure and name of the council are still being determined, but Caputo said he hopes it evolves into an action-oriented group capable of making concrete recommendations to governments and industry.
A second meeting is expected before summer, with Caputo suggesting that sessions could be held quarterly.
Caputo said the initiative reflects a broader effort to focus on local economic priorities.
“Affordability starts with employment,” he said. “My job is to help ensure those opportunities exist here in Kamloops–Thompson–Nicola.”
