The City of Campbell River is leading 17 new projects, from housing and homelessness to public space revitalization, as part of its Community Safety and Well-Being Action Plan (CSWB).
Endorsed by council and Mayor Kermit Dahl on July 24, this action plan incorporates insights and feedback from the Strathcona Regional District and local First Nations, community partners, social service providers, law enforcement and the public to enhance safety initiatives, sense of safety and overall wellbeing within Campbell River.
The CSWB was created through partnership with the non-profit organization Canadian Centre for Safer Communities – an organization that has inspired local action in cities like Calgary, Victoria and Kelowna.
“A healthy and safe community has always been a priority of this council. We have already made notable improvements in the downtown area through patrols, cleanups, partnerships with social service providers and much more,” says mayor Kermit Dahl. “The Community Safety and Well-Being Action Plan is another initiative that will help further enhance safety today and into the future. By aligning resources, focusing efforts and strategically advocating, we can maximize impact and realize positive change for all the residents and businesses we serve.”
According to the city, the action plan identifies 39 of the most critical actions requiring implementation over the next two years, based on community assessments and feedback.
The 17 projects being led by the city cover housing, homelessness, revitalization of public spaces, collaboration between law enforcement and social services, among other priority areas – some of which are already underway.
The city says it recognizes the importance of a holistic approach to community safety. It says access to essential services and prevention programs will create positive change.
