New downtown Kelowna RCMP community liaison plans to listen

Over the past year businesses in downtown Kelowna complained about problems on the streets and part of the RCMP’s solution is a new community liaison officer.

There has been a community liaison officer in Rutland since 2025, and now downtown Kelowna is getting one as well. Police said this was in response to some of the complaints about crime, drug use and homelessness voiced at a forum in January, according to a press release from the City of Kelowna. 

“Council has heard clearly from residents and businesses that they want a stronger, more visible presence in their neighbourhoods and more opportunities to connect directly with officers,” Mayor Tom Dyas said in the release. “Expanding the Community Liaison Officer program to downtown is a direct response to that feedback.”

The liaison is going to meet with residents, businesses and local organizations to hear concerns and bring those to the police in order to work on a solution. 

“Community Liaison Officers are an important part of how we connect with the people we serve,” Kelowna RCMP’s Officer in Charge Supt. Chris Goebel said in the release. “These positions allow officers to spend more time working directly with residents, businesses and community partners to understand local concerns and develop meaningful, problem-solving approaches.” 

Cpl. Michael Gauthier is going to transfer from his position as Rutland’s community liaison and become downtown’s, while Cpl. Aaron Labrum will fill his spot in Rutland. There’s going to be a transition period in the fall as the officers officially make the switch to their new roles.

“This role is about building trust, strengthening relationships and working together to address concerns in a proactive, community-focused way,” Dyas said.