Peace River town council is evaluating the future of a pilot project designed to address security concerns surrounding homeless encampments. Launched in July, the project involved hiring Apex Security to monitor these sites due to rising crime and drug-related issues in the area. Mayor Elaine Manzer noted that while the number of encampments has decreased, Apex reported frequent interactions with a small number of individuals causing ongoing issues. With the pilot set to conclude on October 15, councillors are cautious about renewing the contract due to financial constraints, as using reserve funds for the $1 million cost could impact other town services.
Manzer emphasized the town’s existing financial commitments, including $2.2 million for RCMP services, making it challenging to accommodate additional security expenses without service reductions. The council is advocating for support from the provincial government, particularly given the complications arising from the nearby correctional center releasing individuals into the community. While residents and businesses have expressed general satisfaction with Apex’s presence, RCMP reports indicate no significant reduction in crime. Improvements to visibility along the riverbank and increased Apex patrols may have lessened loitering, contributing to a perceived increase in safety. The council plans to reassess security strategies based on pilot project outcomes.
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