The expansion of Community Safety Officer hours in Portage la Prairie is earning praise from downtown businesses, who say the change is making a noticeable difference.
Keystone Sports Excellence manager Dylan Lee says the officers’ presence later in the day has been especially important.
“Crime doesn’t stop at 4 p.m., so see a lot after hours anyways. And it’s really beneficial to us being open till 6 that we get to have them right until close,” Lee notes.
He says he has personally seen the results.
“Absolutely. Yeah. Yeah, we’ve seen big differences and I’m sure their other supporters have too,” Lee says.
Lee adds that beyond their work, he appreciates the relationships built with officers.
“I just really appreciate the help that we get from them. Got to know a few of the guys personally and super nice guys and they’re willing to help no matter what the case is,” he continues.
Reassurance for staff and customers
Also downttown, Josie Anderson, co-owner and manager of Pure Footwear, agrees the officers’ extended shifts have been a major benefit. She says the presence of CSOs has provided peace of mind in situations where customers or staff felt uncomfortable.
“The benefits I see are that we have prompt service when we have an issue arise in the store with people who come in that we don’t feel extremely comfortable with and that customers are uncomfortable with them being around either if they are suspicious in their actions, or if you can tell that they’re under the influence of drugs,” Anderson says.
She adds the officers respond quickly and discreetly, preventing issues from escalating.
“I have seen them come and take care of things quickly and without a lot of attention drawn to it and just very thankful that they stop in and come check on us to see how things are going,” she adds.
Anderson notes that the longer hours have helped in her personal life as well.
“Because we live downtown as well, I’m glad to see them on the streets later and on the weekends,” she says.
Creating a safe environment
Anderson continues, “I think because we haven’t had a ton of theft and people coming in that have caused trouble, but I would say that it’s definitely less all around.”
She says the support from the program shows the city values its business community.
“I’m just happy to see that Portage cares about the retail people in town and that we do work hard and want to maintain a safe environment for our customers and our staff,” Anderson says.
Both business owners say the officers are already meeting expectations and encourage them simply to continue their work.
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