EDITOR,
It is with encouragement that I read Rebecca Aldous' excellent article on the Community Police Office in downtown Squamish. ("RCMP wants CPO to re-open," Chief, Feb. 3).
This office, hosting almost 20 very effective crime-fighting programs, has been closed for the past 14 months. This office contributes directly to crime prevention programs and becomes a home base for police on the beat who are definitely needed in the downtown. The presence of this office demonstrates a safe community to local citizens and visitors alike. Every real estate agent will confirm that a safe community enhances the growth of home sales. Squamish requires many stimuli to grow the downtown and having a Community Police Office is a key part of that agenda. Every sociology student will confirm that the Maslow Hierarchy of Needs is based on safety and security.
Yes, wisely, the RCMP requested safety and security upgrades for this office for both staff and community users. Yes, there is money available to achieve these upgrades. Each year Squamish, like other B.C. communities, receives the Traffic Fine Revenue Sharing Grant and in 2011, Squamish received $172,886. This is to be dedicated to safe community costs, including policing. The Community Police Office requires its upgrades so the full force of the crime-fighting programs can be seen and experienced in the downtown.
Squamish has lost its courtroom and police staffing seems not to have kept up with the recent growth in population. A robust preventative program is needed to help offset the losses. The Community Police Office contributes directly to this need.
Larry Murray
Sea to Sky Crime Stoppers
Squamish
