Tackling crime in the community is the focus of a new Crime Reduction Committee being put together by Lac La Biche County officials.
“This is an advisory committee that will make recommendations to Council,” says Lac La Biche County spokesperson Alex Fuller, adding that the committee’s creation is in response to a growing
concern over crime levesl in the region. “We understand that crime levels are a source of great concern for residents.”
Three seats at the table are available for members of the public. Other seats will be taken by council
members, police officials and municipal administrators.
“The Crime Reduction Committee is going to be a forum for listening to community input and discussing
possible action plans,” said Fuller. “Members will work with the RCMP and Community Peace Officers
to review crime statistics and look for ways to reduce crime in our area.”
Apply online
Applications to join the committee are available here (you have to scroll down a bit to get to the questionnaire after the terms of reference )The application deadline is June 29. Application forms are also available at the municipal offices at McArthur Place in Lac La Biche.
Needle concern
Fueling the need for a special committee are instances in and around the area that are showing an uptick in criminal activity. Lac La Biche County officials are also this week urging residents to use caution due to an increase in the number of drug paraphernalia complaints coming into the municipal protective services department.
“We would like to remind residents to stay away from any needles they find on the ground, and to call the RCMP or Enforcement Services to collect them,” said Fuller. “Residents who handle discarded
needles may be at risk of exposure to illness or harmful substances.”
Discarded syringes in recent weeks have been found along walking trails along the lakeshore. The direct line for Lac La Biche Protective Services is 780-623-6767. The RCMP complain line is 780- 623-4380. Urgent matters should be directed to 911.
