New Kamloops Community Services officers taking ‘education first’ approach with bylaw infractions

The City of Kamloops says it's moving towards an "education first" approach to serious bylaw infractions, as it introduces its new Community Services Division.

Formerly known as Bylaw Services, officials at City Hall say the change to Community Services Officers is a shift in how they interact with residents.

"If we get a call about an unsightly camp, for example, it's not good enough to just move someone along or write a ticket. It's about finding a solution and connect that person with resources that can help them," says Tammy Blundell, Community Services Manager.

CSO's will be expected to deal with a range of matters, from social issues to nuisance properties to pest control.  However, enforcement remains part of the job.

"We will do our best to come to solutions and understandings and not rely solely on enforcement," says Brian McCorkell, Community and Protect Services Director. "This doesn't mean that tickets will no longer be handed out for parking or other bylaw infractions. Our officers will still distribute tickets when required."

But Blundell also presses home the point that community service officers are, "not just about parking tickets and barking dogs anymore. We're about helping the community deal with the impacts of some of the social issues we're facing."

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