Pubdate: Tue, 14 May 2002 Source: Camrose Canadian (CN AB) Copyright: 2002 Camrose Canadian Contact: http://www.camrosecanadian.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2160 Author: Elaine Pennington Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/dare.htm (D.A.R.E.) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth) POLICE LOOKING FOR DIRECTION ON THREE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN The Camrose Police Service sought direction from city councillors during the May 6 council meeting. Police chief Marshall Chalmers, inspector Damian Herle and police commission member Lowell Knutson made the appearance as part of the departments ongoing planning for the next stage of the Camrose Police Service strategic plan. Chalmers explained to council that whatever plan is developed it will have to be quite flexible, "more so in the next three years than in the last three years." It is due partly to the city's expected growth but also to increased demands on the force by changes in provincial legislation and cutbacks. Court preparation A change in government requirements for courts has already had a drastic impact on the local department, Marshall explained. Officers and staff must now prepare full court briefs for all cases and have them available for the crown prosecutor prior to the first appearance. "It's a huge problem. The cost is enormous... it's a huge drain on us. Now I have 'coppers' behind a desk developing this and not on the street." Chalmers said now was the opportunity for council to have their say and give the department some input on issues they would like to see addressed. Councillor Daryl Shillington said that with talk of a casino coming to the city he was wondering whether the police had considered talking to other jurisdictions to determine if the police see an impact on crime. "There are no plans to actually conduct a study. I know the University of Alberta and the Edmonton Police Service have just agreed to conduct that type of impact study. It will certainly enlighten us all... If there is a casino, we'll have to look at the resources required and fall out if there is any." Chalmers agreed to seek feedback from other agencies with casino located in their jurisdictions, "that's something I can easily do." Drugs Drug use is an issue that continues to be a problem and councillor Mary Durand asked whether it was becoming more popular amongst younger people. "Drugs are a priority... it's a fight we won't give up on. Drug users are getting younger. We do have an example of drug use in 11-year-olds." Chalmers also referred to a weekend drug bust that resulted in charges against youths between the ages of 16 and 21. The DARE program has become a priority in the community and Durand asked whether there is now a need to expand the program to discourage drug use. Chalmers explained that it currently includes a mini-DARE program for Grade 3 students, a full program at the Grade 6 level and a bumper or reminder course for Grade 8 students. He said as long as the funding doesn't change, those programs will continue. Growth Chalmers responded to a question by councillor Gerry Galenza by saying that population growth and increased demands on the force are two areas the department continues to follow closely. The city's population is being monitored closely based on census information. "That will tell us when the next increase (in the size of the department) is expected," Chalmers said noting that doesn't account for the possible changes due to the economy shutting down or speeding up. The Camrose Police Service currently operates with one police officer per 725 residents, about 200 higher than the provincial average. Chalmers said that with the current pressures facing the department because of provincial legislation, it might be something that has to be addressed. Patrols Citizens have addressed concerns over police visibility and foot patrols and Galenza asked whether anything could be done to improve the presence particularly downtown. "Foot patrols, it's on the sergeant's agenda. We try to get out there as often as we can, but it is very difficult with the resources we have." The service has welcomed two new recruits who will graduate at the end of May, but Chalmers pointed out within the next five years the service is expected to lose 43 per cent of their staff due to retirement. Galenza suggested the service return to its former policy of introducing new members to council to give them a little history of the community and Chalmers agreed to consider it. Photo radar Photo radar is another tool in the department's crime fighting toolbox and Chalmers said despite a recent letter, complaints are minimal. He also pointed out that city council was involved setting the tolerance level and it is very generous. "We're not going to please everyone," Chalmers said. It was also pointed out that photo radar use is just another way of catching people who are breaking the law. Chalmers also noted that unlike Wetaskiwin who has a photo laser radar vehicle that is repainted every week "we are very wide open with it." Chalmers added that when they do receive a complaint, "I'll call them myself." Mayor Norm Mayer suggested another response would be "if you hate spending money on tickets, raise your right foot." The service expects to have its strategic plan in place for 2003. - --- MAP posted-by: Jackl