Vernon ends downtown security patrol; just 32 reports made over 3 summers

Photo: Gordon Cole

A summertime security program in downtown Vernon won’t be renewed for 2023.

The Activate Safety Task Force wasn’t busy enough to warrant its $40,000 annual expense.

“Council has dedicated approximately $120,000 for the three-year seasonal security contract which has now ended,” a report to council said.

Just 32 calls for service were reported over the duration of the contract.

“Based on the limited calls for service, administration is recommending that council not proceed with the program in 2023.”

The report also noted several security companies under private contracts operate in and around the downtown core each night.

The mobile security service operated seven days per week from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. between May 1 and Sept. 30.

A marked security vehicle maintained a visible presence, but personnel could only observe, record and report occurrences, not enforce the law.

Most of the service’s observations recorded “street-entrenched” regulars who were not in contravention of a municipal bylaw or provincial statute, the report noted.

City councillors went along with the recommendation to disband the service, though with some regret.

Coun. Kari Gares thought the business community should have been consulted more.

“It doesn’t look like there was a lot of calls to service or activity on this contract,” said Coun. Teresa Durning. “I just am struggling with it because with all the issues we’re facing in the downtown, is this the best bang for our buck?”

Chief administrator Will Pierce said city staff believes putting money toward more police and bylaw enforcement would be a better use of city money.

“The results of this contract, though I’m sure well intentioned by the council members who voted in favour of it, really just resulted in reporting that seven individuals who were homeless were trying to stay warm,” said Coun. Kelly Fehr.