SCHOOL AREA DECLARED A DRUG-FREE ZONE

Grand Forks RCMP say drug problems won't wash over other parts of the city
when a 10-block drug-free zone is established near Perley Elementary and
the high school in May.

During Monday's regular meeting, Grand Forks city council unanimously
agreed to foot the bill for 10 aluminum signs outlining an area extending
from Donaldson Drive, up 16th Avenue, along 77th Avenue to 10th Street and
back down Kettle River Drive.

Anyone who grows, sells, or holds illegal drugs in their possession within
the drug-free zone will face twice the normal fine and penalty when they
appear in court to face charges.

"Anything we can do to reduce drug usage in the city is a positive step,"
Sgt. Darryl Little said.

Little and Cst. Deron Brown were joined by several dedicated youth
volunteers during Monday's presentation.

Council embraced the initiative but questioned the possibility of pushing
the drug trade into other areas of the city. The sergeant understood
council's concern but encouraged everyone to take things one step at a time.

Coun. Neil Krog suggested that a drug-free zone should be declared to
encompass the entire municipality.

"It's a good idea and would certainly be nice if we could include the whole
city but this is a good start," Little responded.

The zone's location was chosen primarily to combat drug dealers who prey on
older elementary and younger secondary students who are easy and
impressionable targets for older kids and adults.

"We don't want our kids going to schools and worrying about a dealer trying
to sell them some crack or weed," Little said.

Residents and businesses within the zone will be canvassed in upcoming
weeks to ensure everyone knows they'll soon be living in a drug-free area.

All the signs will feature a hypodermic needle with a line crossing through
its centre above the words "GFSS Drug-Free Zone."

The zone will work in conjunction with Perley's successful Drug Abuse
Resistance Education program that will produce its first graduating class
this spring. The program is set to expand into Hutton and Christina Lake.

"The drug free zone is going to be awesome, I think it's very exciting for
Grand Forks and it's a wonderful compliment to the success of the DARE
program,' says DARE coordinator, Cst. Sharon Godlien. In order to pay for
the extra programs, several fundraising drives are scheduled.

The double-penalty fines go into effect in May once the signs ar erected.
The signs will cost the city $400, plus installation.