SASKATOON – It began as a pilot program and now Saskatoon city council has decided to make community support officers, also known as CSOs, a permanent fixture downtown. CSOs patrol the streets, responding to complaints of public intoxication and panhandling.
They also offer assistance to people suffering from mental illness and addictions, directing them to support programs and treatment centres.
According to city officials, 90 per cent of surveyed businesses wanted the program to continue, with 69 per cent prepared to support the program through property taxes.
“A lot of people are enjoying seeing people in uniforms downtown,” Mayor Don Atchison told Global News.
“That’s all about safety and security. In New York City, for example, you see a lot of people in uniform. They’re not officers, but they’re people who are involved in the BID area and that’s really important to have the feeling of safety and security.”
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Officials also said data has shown a reduction in duplication of services, with police or other service providers needed less frequently.
Parking meter money, generally used for streetscaping, will be used to fund the program at a cost of $450,000. The city will also ask the province for financial help.
Wendy Winiewski contributed to this report
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