Photo: City of West Kelowna

West Kelowna has extended its contract for downtown security patrols through the end of the year.

Council was told in October there has been a noticeable decrease in both crime and mischief since patrols began in August. That also led to a reduction in the cost of repairs due to vandalism, and the demand for bylaw enforcement.

The initial two-month trial, which included patrols of public facilities such as Lions Hall and the transit exchange, was initially extended to the end of October.

“Over the past few weeks, I have been speaking with many residents and business owners in the downtown area of our community, and the topic of security always comes up," said Mayor Gord Milsom.

"The trial security patrol has, without a doubt, made a huge difference for these people. The patrol puts eyes and ears on our downtown every day and, sometimes, it’s just that presence that can help keep the peace.”

Paladin Security will continue patrols during evening hours seven days a week.

Council will consider extending patrols further when it deliberates the 2019 budget.