As Crime Rises, Kelowna Businesses Call for Community Action

Kelowna Business Owners Urge Expansion of Security Patrols to Rutland

Update Security Patrols in Kelowna: A Response to Growing Concerns The City of Kelowna is taking a significant step towards tackling the ongoing issues of social disorder and crime, particularly in its downtown core. Amid increasing complaints from business owners, the city has introduced overnight security patrols aimed at improving safety and reducing crime rates. This initiative comes at a time when community members are raising alarm bells over deteriorating conditions that threaten their business operations and overall public safety. Urgent Need for Expansion in Rutland Business owners like David Lea, who runs Toshido Mixed Martial Arts in Rutland, are not only frustrated but are also sounding the alarm about conditions in their area. Lea has described the situation as dire, noting the prevalence of litter, drug paraphernalia, and other unsanitary issues that have become too common. "It’s just a constant infestation of feces, crack pipes, syringes, garbage — you know, it’s just, it’s an ongoing concern," he stated. He argues that the same resources deployed in downtown Kelowna are desperately needed in Rutland to address these escalating issues. Temporary Measures and Long-term Solutions The newly launched patrol project is currently a temporary measure. Kelowna's community safety director, Darren Caul, has indicated that the city will analyze data from the RCMP and other relevant sources to identify where security resources are most needed. While some community members welcome the initiative, others express skepticism about its effectiveness due to its temporary nature. Business owner Todd Daniels stated, "You know, ‘temporary’ always scares me a little bit. But I think it’s a step in the right direction.” Overcoming Crime: A Collective Effort The initiative marks a response to a real and urgent community need. As Mayor Tom Dyas pointed out, the success seen in downtown Kelowna, where an established program has responded to thousands of calls for service, raises hopes for a similar outcome in Rutland. The program's cost of $16,000 a month is funded through Kenton’s public safety levy, but its future will depend on its success in the area. Should it prove effective, it opens the door for more funding and potentially long-term security solutions. Commitment from Local Businesses and Community Members Local businesses like the Uptown Rutland Business Association are stepping forward by contributing financially to the initiative. They are seeking additional sponsorships and grants to support the expansion of security patrols in their area. This collective effort from business owners and community members underscores a shared desire for a safer community where businesses can thrive without fear of social disorder. The Road Ahead: Expectations and Community Responsibilities As this pilot program rolls out, local authorities are keen to emphasize the importance of community engagement in addressing crime. Caul encourages residents to report any incidents to the police, stating, "If the police don’t know what’s happening, they can’t act. So, consistent reporting by the public informs the data that drives deployment." This partnership between law enforcement and residents is vital in transforming the community into a safer environment for everyone. Conclusion: Taking Action Together The introduction of security patrols in downtown Kelowna illustrates the city’s awareness and responsiveness to community concerns. As frustrations mount over crime and disorder, it is crucial that Rutland does not fall behind. The need for expanded security resources is evident. As local business leaders rally for change, the hope is that together, they can create safer spaces that foster a thriving community. To make this happen, continued participation and collaboration among business owners, residents, and city authorities will be key.