RESIDENTS RAISE CONCERNS OVER CRIME

A neighbourhood overwhelmed by criminal activity is demanding action
from Vernon city hall.

Resident Ann May used Monday's council meeting as an opportunity to
educate the politicians about her neighbourhood, 35th Avenue,
including the Vernon Recreation Complex.

"Many syringes and condoms have been found," she said, referring to
regular problems with prostitution, drugs and crime.

May says emergency vehicles regularly deal with the victims of drug overdoses.

"If we don't move in on these issues they will move in on us," she said.

May believes some of the problems may be the result of a high
concentration of rooming houses in the area.

"We need a revitalization of this area," she said, pointing out that
the recreation complex brings countless number of people into the
neighbourhood every day.

"Our recreation complex and performing arts centres are a jewel of
the downtown. We need to take action for the greater good."

The residents are demanding an action plan be initiated by the city,
including increased RCMP foot patrols and better lighting.

"We want to make it a safe area for our children," said May.

Council agreed Monday to set up a meeting between the RCMP and the residents.

"There has to be some additional patrolling. It's out of control in
that area," said Coun. Patrick Nicol.

Some city officials will also be attending a conference in Calgary to
investigate a variety of crime strategies.

One of them who will be attending is Coun. Jack Gilroy, who dealt
with some of May's concerns while he was deputy fire chief.

"You just get it (problems) cleaned up and it's back there again," he said.