Perth South Recruiting Members for Newly Formed Community Policing Advisory Committee

October 18, 2018

As part of the transition process from the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) to the Stratford Police Service, Perth South Council has formally begun the process of creating the Perth South Community Policing Advisory Committee (CPAC). At the October 16, 2018 Council meeting, Council reviewed the report “Establishing a Community Policing Advisory Committee”. It was recommended that the committee be established and that it be comprised of Perth South Mayor or delegate and one Councillor along with three members of the community.

The CPAC is a collaborative partnership between law enforcement and the community they serve. The committee’s role is to advise the Chief of Police about objectives and priorities for police services in Perth South. Through this committee, members can provide independent guidance, governance and accountability at the local level in regards to policing.

Community policing recognizes that police cannot always solve public safety problems alone and encourages interactive partnerships with relevant stakeholders. The number of potential partners is large and these partnerships can accomplish two interrelated goals of developing solutions to problems through collaborative problem solving and improving public trust.

“It is important that the Perth South residents play a role in prioritizing public safety problems.” said Mayor Bob Wilhelm. “And the creation of this committee will give the residents the ability to participate in that role.”

The Committee’s duties will include, but is not limited to:

· Receiving issues brought to their attention by the citizens of Perth South;

· Reviewing and monitoring annual budgets;

· Receiving reports from the Chief of Police concerning community policing issues, initiatives, and statistics as requested by the Committee;

· Educating citizens about crime prevention and safety programs; and

· Assisting in the coordination of police service related events.

The Township of Perth South is currently accepting applications for the Community Policing Advisory Committee. Applications can be picked up at the Township office located at 3191 Road 122, St. Pauls or be downloaded by visiting the website www.perthsouth.ca/committees. Submissions must be made no later than November 14, 2018 at noon.

Additional questions about the Perth South Community Policing Advisory Committee can be directed to Rebecca Clothier, Administrator/Treasurer at 519-271-0619 ext. 227 or rclothier@perthsouth.ca.