Applications are open for members of the public to serve on a newly created City of Nanaimo Public Safety Committee. (Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Ian Holmes

public safety

Public Safety Committee to be launched in Nanaimo

Nov 18, 2023 | 7:36 AM

NANAIMO — With public safety and social disorder an increasing concern in recent years in Nanaimo, a committee will be formed to examine ways to make a difference.

Interested volunteers are being asked to submit applications are available through the City of Nanaimo website and must be filed by Friday Dec. 1 at 4:30 p.m.

The Public Safety Committee will directly advise City Council on safety programs, policies and strategic initiatives.

“We know that voter turnout is often pretty dismal and part of that is because people feel alienated from the political process. This is way to be become involved in a direct, meaningful and helpful way,” Mayor Leonard Krog told NanaimoNewsNOW.

The committee, formed at the direction of City Council, will include two councillors and seven members of the public discussing and voting on recommendations in public meetings.

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Stating public safety is high on everybody’s minds these days, the mayor said it’s his belief the committee will help form ideas that will lead to positive policy enhancements.

He said there are many people in Nanaimo with ideas and solutions waiting to be untapped.

“And not people who have an axe to grind necessarily, but people who are willing to devote serious time and commitment to try and improve public safety in the community,” Krog said.

The committee is scheduled to meet every second month until Nov. 2026, coinciding with the existing council’s term.

Key investments by the City to improve public safety in recent years includes a $2.5 million Downtown Nanaimo Safety Action Plan adopted last year, which includes the hiring of a dozen Public Safety Officers.

Continual City investments have also been made for additional Nanaimo RCMP and Nanaimo Fire Rescue resources.

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ian.holmes@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes