Correspondence - RCMP re: Request for West Shore Annual Crime Prevention Funding

RE: Request for West Shore Annual Crime Prevention Funding

West Shore Crime Prevention Section has had a very busy and productive year with many changes to ensure the Western Communities are embraced with new programs and initiatives. I would ask that you please consider the following funding request to be included in your 2013 budget. This funding is being requested to assist in the operation and continued maintenance of the Crime Prevention/Community Policing and School Liaison Programs offered by the West Shore Detachment.

The West Shore Community Policing Section (CPS) has 4 Police Officers, a Section Clerk, Community Liaison Officer (Rick Stiebel) and 100 volunteers that support our programs. The West Shore CPS is actively involved in the following programs; Block Watch, Speed Watch, Community Policing Advisory Council (CPAC), Restorative Justice, Keep In Touch (KIT), Auxiliary Constables, School Liaison duties, educational presentations and numerous community events. These funds contribute to the ongoing training of our volunteers, program expenses, volunteer recognition, the marketing and use of media to promote awareness and safety messaging as well as our continued involvement in community events. Some of these include, School Sport Program, Positive Tickets, Pink Shirt Day, various parades, Halloween event, Police Week open house, volunteer appreciation events, etc.

This request for funding has been divided amongst five municipalities; Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Metchosin, and Highlands. West Shore Community Policing Section is requesting your Council consider a grant in the amount of $4,600.00. An itemized list of the Crime Prevention Programs and estimated associated expenditures is attached.

The West Shore Crime Prevention Unit is also in great need of a new vehicle, please see attached letter outlining the information on this topic.

The budget description request has been updated to capture the different programs, as well as the various activities held throughout West Shore Communities. Please note bike and vehicle expenses are now being captured as it has become a large part of our budget. The total request for 2013 has not changed from our request of 2012. The total expenditures for last year was $36,320, a large part of this being repairs to our ageing fleet.

If you require further explanation, please feel free to contact Corporal Kathy Rochlitz, NCO in charge of the Community Policing Section at 250-474-8752.

Your consideration of the attached Crime Prevention Budget is greatly appreciated. I wish to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support toward our community's Crime Prevention, Community Policing, and School Liaison initiatives.

Yours Truly,

Inspector Kevin VIOLOT Officer in Charge West Shore RCMP