Saturday afternoon, the Peace River RCMP Community Advisory Committee hosted a meeting with core downtown Peace River businesses to address the increased crime, homelessness and nuisances occurrences in the area.
The turnout of about 75 citizens demonstrated the concern and need for resolution. Frustration felt by local businesses was evident with topics of trespassing, theft and threats being brought up.
There were several presenters on hand such as the local RCMP, Rural Crime Watch, Peace River Mental Health & Addictions Task Force, and the Town of Peace River.
Insight was provided on this complex issue as to why there has been an increase of activity in the downtown area. The main reasons being homelessness, addictions, and mental health. Also discussed were the challenges faced such as lack of funding and support to address the root causes of crime.
In addition, information was presented on plans to improve the situation and steps which have already been taken. These include RCMP business checks and hot spot patrols, with a focus on after hours. Along with protection by environmental design to help deter loitering and crime. Examples provided were transforming public benches to chairs, increase planter heights, enclosing gaps between buildings, increasing/upgrading lighting and cameras, encourage repainting and murals on buildings, as well as keeping areas clean and free of debris. To help support these improvements and revitalization, the Peace River Town Council outlined information on available grants.
Members of Town Council will be meeting with Provincial Ministers this week. The main topic of discussion will be this situation and lobbying for Provincial government support to help improve. The final point of emphasis was that we all need to work together in this process.
Keith Hopper, Trending 55
