Clear communication and higher visibility are on the priority list for local law enforcement in the years to come.
Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment (UFVRD) Superintendent Davy Lee appeared before Harrison's council on Monday (Nov. 18) evening to discuss the RCMP's plan for law enforcement in the village for the next few years. The strategic plan Lee presented outlines the goals, priorities and objectives for local law enforcement specifically with Harrison Hot Springs in mind.
Lee said based on feedback, residents prioritized increased visibility of officers and fast response times.
"Key concerns include crime prevention – property crime, drug offences, traffic and speeding," he said. "We are going to be focusing on increasing police visibility by increasing targeted enforcement, patrols and increased presence at community events across the region."
Lee said working with the province is key in maintaining a safety and enforcement plan for the high tourism season in particular.
"In July and August, there were 34 dedicated seasonal shifts in addition to the regular patrols and boat patrols on Harrison Lake," Lee said.
Lee said the local RCMP will continue to work with local business owners in strategizing against emerging crime trends for current and future planning, meeting with them quarterly to address any concerns.
In terms of relations with area First Nations communities, the local RCMP continues to offer opportunities for cultural awareness training for all members. The local RCMP hope to keep positive interactions going with local students but upping their regular visits by 10 per cent and continuing educational talks.
Lee noted that there will be three new cadets coming in to the Agassiz RCMP as a number of members have been promoted and their career paths have taken them elsewhere. Lee added there will be two other members joining the local detachment – one from Langley and one from Surrey.
At the end of the presentation, Coun. Mark Schweinbenz applauded Lee and his officers for their continued efforts.
"I think we're very privileged to have you here," he said. "We're really glad you're here when there's a problem. I own a store just down the road, and (often), some of your members come in and they're super friendly. Having you guys along the beach, I think, brings a sense of calm and safety to everything."
Schweinbenz specifically asked Lee about "the party on Pine;" the councillor had received a number of calls about noise and commotion from the area for the past few weeks.
"We're going to be having a meeting regarding our issues on Pine," said Agassiz RCMP detachment head Sgt. Andy Lot, who fielded the question. "I'm aware of those. We've had police attend there, but is an ongoing issue. At this meeting I hope to have on Friday, we can together come up with a resolution which will result in police having a positive result."
Coun. Michie Vidal echoed Schweinbenz in her thanks for seasonal police presence.
"I get responses from visitors and our residents all the time how much they appreciate having the visibility of members down on the beachfront during our busy weekends, and I hope that you will advocate that that continues," she said.
