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Mayor’s task force outlines strategies to combat crime in 鶹AV

The task force reduced more than 50 recommendations to seven initiatives and 20 action measures
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Members of the Mayor’s Task Force on Crime Reduction. (Gary Barnes/鶹AV)

The Mayor’s Task Force on Crime Reduction presented its strategy to tackle crime and enhance community safety in 鶹AV at council’s May 27 meeting.

Since June 2023, the task force has reduced more than 50 recommendations to seven initiatives and 20 action measures.

Task force members Carmen Remple and Laura Thurnheer noted the importance of community involvement and collaboration with the provincial government over the last 11 months.

“It truly takes us all,” Remple said.

The recommendations include increasing RCMP police visibility in business districts, more resident engagement and education in time prevention and reduction, expanding the business CCTV registry program, and exploring a residential program.

Remple proposed expanding the city’s from the current 68 to over 100, particularly in communities needing organizational help.

“We also see an opportunity for a residential CCTV program,” she added, noting that other Canadian cities have implemented similar measures.

Another recommendation outlined increased support for treatment and recovery programs.

Thurnheer explained opportunities such as a sobering assessment centre, and multi-care facility to help individuals transition from the streets to self-sustainability.

The task force urged action on repeat offending, particularly those with complex mental health and substance use issues.

Council members praised the efforts of the task force and city staff. There was significant support for the sobering and multi-care facilities.

“It sounds like you’re doing everything we want you to do,” Coun. Charlie Hodge added.

Mayor Tom Dyas, who chaired the task force, pointed out that crime and community safety is a top council priority and thanked members for their work.

“Their insights and perspectives have been invaluable.”

Staff will evaluate the feasibility and timing of implementing the recommendations, and the task force plans to meet again in September.

For more information about the task force report, visit the .

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About the Author: Gary Barnes

Journalist and broadcaster for three decades.
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