Safety a concern in Polson Park

A Vernon city councillor wants to make Polson Park a safer place. 

The park has been the site of several violent and criminal activities in recent years and while Coun. Patrick Nicol had no specific answers to the problem, he wanted to make sure the RCMP was on it.

During Tuesday's council meeting, Nicol asked RCMP Supt. Reg Burgess to consider a greater community policing service in the park during the summer. The park is a known locale for criminal activity, said Nicol, adding that crime worsens there during summer months. A 44-year-old Vernon man was stabbed on park grounds last August. 

"It's such a lovely park, and we want it to be safe at all times," Nicol told InfotelNews. 

Nicol didn't have a perfect answer for the Polson problem, but maintained that some form of community policing service would promote safety by having more eyes and ears on the lookout for trouble. 

Burgess said the RCMP is always looking at ways to make the park safer, and that he would consider Nicol's remarks. Better lighting in the park, new bylaws and the presence of citizens on patrol could play a part in mitigating crime, Burgess told councillors.

"I have asked this question previously," said Coun. Nicol. "But I've never asked it to Supt. Burgess and I am encouraged that he will be taking another look (at the park)."

—Charlotte Helston

chelston@infotelnews.ca

(250) 309-5230