A meeting for residents of the new west end prompted a lot of discussion on how they can work together to help fight crime in their neighbourhood.
Around 250 residents attended last night to ask questions of Council members, RCMP and other organizations.
City Councillor Blair Lawrence stressed that they need to work together, “It’s really about a neighbourhood taking control of its own neighbourhood. There are Captains and Co-Captains that have information out. Everyone on the street gets to know everyone else so that they look out for each other.”
It was also stated that it is important all crimes are reported to RCMP, no matter how minor, even if nothing is taken, “We still want them to report any kind of behaviour that is either seemingly inappropriate or there is actual a crime committed, whether or not there is been residual damage. That way there are statistics and that will propel the RCMP or our by-law to act on those.”
Residents were also encouraged to ensure doors, windows and cars are kept locked, and to turn lights on at night.
Lawrence says it was very positive to see residents are committed to work together to keep their neighbourhoods safe, “Most people are steadfast, they want to stay here. They just want to contribute to make sure it is really safe for everyone and reduce as much crime as possible.”
A meeting was held last month with residents in the old west end. Concerns were raised about an increase of crime and homelessnes in the west end as a whole.
