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Brad Bailey, director of public safety for the City of Portage la Prairie, says the continued evolution of the Community Safety Officer (CSO) program is helping build stronger ties between law enforcement and the public.
“We’re excited to have a consistent presence downtown and around the city,” Bailey says. “Hopefully we can deter people from doing things they shouldn’t be doing, while also helping those who need support.”
He says the officers aren’t just there to deal with infractions — they’re meant to be approachable and supportive to residents, especially during the summer when more people are outdoors enjoying the city.
New equipment adds function to enforcement
Bailey notes that a newly acquired patrol truck, now marked for CSO service, brings added versatility to their operations.
“It’s a welcome addition,” he says. “It gives officers the ability to move things like barriers or haul recovered bikes after hours.”
While the truck is not yet fully outfitted, the city plans to install a light bar and additional features in the near future. Bailey says the program is scaling up its equipment gradually, with long-term plans for improvements like onboard computers.
“Our vehicles don’t have computer systems just yet,” he says. “But it’s something we’re exploring as we continue to enhance the tools these officers use every day.”
Powers and limitations clarified
Bailey explains that CSOs are peace officers and have specific legal powers.
“They can arrest and detain people temporarily until RCMP arrive,” he says. “They’re there to assist the RCMP and to be proactive in the community.”
The officers are equipped with standard gear, including handcuffs, batons, and OC spray. In most cases, they hold a person on-site and wait for RCMP to take over.
Bailey encourages residents to report non-emergency issues when CSOs are on duty.
“If you witness something like public intoxication, trespassing, vandalism, illegal dumping or suspicious activity, you can call 204-239-0007,” he says. “Officers will respond when available and check things out.”
Community role and perception still evolving
Caitlyn Saindon, who oversees day-to-day CSO operations, says the public’s understanding of what CSOs can and cannot do has improved.
“Many of the conversations officers are having on the street show the general knowledge is there,” Saindon says. “But it’s still up to us to keep educating people about the role.”
She adds that while the CSOs do not replace RCMP, they do fill a unique role in public safety.
“They have the ability to arrest when necessary, and their focus is on safety,” she says. “It’s a hybrid kind of role — not bylaw, not police — something in between.”
Growth, training and what’s ahead
Saindon says the program has reached a point where it is steadily developing new capabilities. Though she could not confirm any upcoming fleet additions, she expects growth to continue.
The new truck, she says, is currently being used primarily for transporting items like personal effects or abandoned property.
“It’s not a transport unit yet,” she notes. “It’s used for patrol or hauling, but not for moving individuals at this point.”
She also says plans are in place to further equip the truck with the same safety features as the other vehicle, including interior control panels, sirens, and protective barriers.
Message to the public
With some new officers still in training, Saindon asks for patience as the program matures.
“They’re doing their best to get up to speed quickly,” she says. “We’re committed to building this program responsibly.”
She adds that residents play a vital role in the success of the initiative.
“We just want people to know these officers are part of the community,” she says. “They’re here to help.”
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