THE PRICE TO PAY

We better wake up to the fact there is crime in this city.

And it is not just the residents who have to be aware and take precautions
to reduce the chances of becoming a victim.

No, politicians and bureaucrats alike must act on the pleas of our law
enforcement agencies. The pleas that more has to be done to fight crime
here in big, bad Mississauga. Yes, big, bad Mississauga.

Despite the efforts of police and the Mississauga Crime Prevention
Association (MCPA), certain types of crime have taken root in this city.
And even though the MCPA has itself declared Mississauga to be the safest
city in the country, being the best of a worsening lot is nothing to be
proud of.

Recent crime statistics show that gangs are increasingly making their
presence known. There has also been a jump in the number of young people
committing violent crimes. Further, this city has become a haven for those
growing marijuana.

Even Peel Police Chief Noel Catney admits the hiring of 30 officers will
not make a dent in crime.

The solution, as it is always, is to spend money.

Although more funds from the Province should be directed here --
considering that we have six sitting MPPs aligned with the governing party
you would think that would be possible -- local officials must also plan
better and come up with innovative ways to direct more funds to policing
efforts. That may even mean a tax increase.

The citizens of Mississauga have in past surveys told their elected
officials they are willing to pay more to keep the streets safe.

Now would be a good time to do something about it.