Surrey City Councillor Barinder Rasode to hold dialogue on local crime

Every day people tell me they don’t feel safe. Crime is an issue in Surrey, and it’s clear the status quo is simply not working.

Improving public safety should be the City’s number one priority, and it’s time for fresh ideas on how to solve Surrey’s crime problem.

In recent weeks, there have been six stabbings, three murders, a daylight drive-by shooting, a young lady beaten, a bus shot at, and countless crimes that didn’t make the news. To ignore the facts, doesn’t change the facts.

The feedback I’ve received is that people want immediate and long-term solutions, as well as a complete review of the programs and services in our Crime Reduction Strategy.

I have also heard very clearly that Surrey needs more police officers because the current number is not sufficient to carry-out extensive investigations as well as critical front-line work, such as community patrols and responding to service calls. Surrey’s Officer in Charge asked for 27 additional officers this year to keep up with the growing demand, so we should listen to him.

We also need to recommit to community policing, including more bike and foot patrols. And, it’s time we examined how the City’s ByLaw Enforcement Division can provide additional support. We can look to the City of Langford’s award-winning Community Safety Officer Project for guidance.

As a City, we can also make better planning decisions, because the power of zoning and innovative design can truly shape a neighbourhood and improve safety.

Criminal street gangs are a serious problem in every major city, and innocent bystanders are often caught in the crossfire. On Thursday, we’re holding an Organized Crime Dialogue to bring the community together for a conversation about drugs, crime and gang prevention, and to discuss things we can do as a community, and as parents, to become part of the solution.

Knowledge is power. Law enforcement officials and former gang members will share their stories and the lessons they’ve learned as a result of their firsthand experience with gang violence and its consequences. It’s about getting answers and tools to help us develop a comprehensive and holistic solution to Surrey’s crime problem.

Attend the Organized Crime Dialogue and join the conversation: http://ow.ly/yFGse

Organized Crime Dialogue – Gang Prevention & Reform: A Path to Success

Date: Thursday, July 10
Time: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Bombay Banquet Hall (7475 – 135th Street, Surrey)
What: Join law enforcement officials and ex-gang members as they share stories and solutions to Metro Vancouver’s gang problem.
Cost: Free. RSVP online here.

Written by City of Surrey Councillor Barinder Rasode, a Guest Contributor to Vancity Buzz. Follow her on Twitter @BarinderRasode.

Featured Image: Vancity Buzz