The most prominent issue in Monday’s Timmins election… is safety downtown.
BIA executive director Cindy Campbell says steps are being taken to improve safety.
After consulting other communities, her organization has compiled two proposals — one for the incoming council, the other for police.
“The Timmins Police Board has already reviewed it and have committed to further review and implementing,” she remarks. “So we’re making some very positive steps. We have to leave safety to who has the ability and the resources to do safety, and that’s the city and the police.”
One small part of the proposal to police is having a street outreach officer to work with the bylaw department to ensure people on the street get the help they need.
“And also making sure with our member businesses that they’re doing safety audits, that they’re making sure that our businesses are as safe as they can make themselves be, and also ensuring the public that by walking the beat, that there’s somebody that’s got their back.”
Campbell acknowledges the officer shortage and recruitment challenges TPS is dealing with, but notes that it has been given approval for six more hires.