Victoria council is moving ahead with the development of a community safety and well-being plan.
The city’s goal is for the plan to include interventions to reduce crime and public disorder while creating long-term solutions.
“The best path forward involves greater collaboration, from all sectors, with a long-term focus on innovative problem-solving, and investment in programs with proven effectiveness in building safety and preventing crime,” Victoria Police Chief Del Manak said. “VicPD is on the front line of community safety in Victoria and it’s clear that, despite everyone’s best efforts, the current system is not providing the level of safety and quality of life we want for our citizens, especially those on our streets and in our parks. We are excited to work with everyone on this initiative to create a safer community together.”
A 10-member panel will help shape the plan over the next 15 months. The panel includes Manak, Victoria Mayor Marianne Alto, Jonny Morris, the CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Association’s B.C. division, Fire Chief Daniel Atkinson and others.
“We know that cities across the country are struggling with a variety of challenges including the safety and well-being of all their residents. Victoria is going to lead with a solution-focused plan that will encompass an intentional, balanced, practical re-imagination of community safety and well-being,” said Alto. “Each one of these panel members has one distinct thing in common. They care deeply about their community. I’m grateful they’re willing to give their time and leadership to help build a path forward.”
The draft plan will be brought to council by October 2024, and council will also receive regular updates about the progress.
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