Should downtown businesses pay for security patrols?

EDITOR'S NOTE: A version of this article originally appeared on SooToday on Aug. 4. It is being republished here for readers who may have missed it.

The Downtown Association started polling its members Friday on whether private security patrols are needed in Queenstown and who should foot the bill.

"Do you feel a private security presence servicing the membership would add to the safety and enjoyment of downtown?" asked the survey, emailed to member businesses Friday morning.

The survey also asks whether members would prefer daytime or overnight security patrols, or a combination of both.

Business owners were also polled on which of these is their primary concern: theft, vandalism, homelessness/ addictions, loitering or something else.

Finally, the questionnaire asks whether the city or the association should pay for the patrols, or whether both should foot the bill.

The survey is being taken in response to a city council resolution approved this week, asking that consideration be given to bringing back private security after the city police 'dynamic patrols' conclude at the end of summer.

"I think there's a need for downtown security to continue, to play a part in making the downtown feel like a safe place for people who are visiting it," said Mayor Matthew Shoemaker.

The Downtown Association paid for overnight private security patrols from 2020 to 2022.

Last year, the city assumed responsibility for the patrols as part of a six-month pilot program.

This week's council resolution, moved by Ward 2 Coun. Lisa Vezeau-Allen and seconded by Ward 2's Luke Dufour, acknowledged that the dynamic patrols appear to be working.

"The success of the downtown police dynamic patrols has highlighted the need for a permanent security or police presence in the downtown," said the resolution.

"The presence of police or security in the downtown area will assist in the feeling of safety residents have when in the downtown, and encourage more people to patronize downtown businesses."

City staff will report at the next city council meeting on Aug. 28 on options for paying for private security once the dynamic patrols have ended.

Meanwhile, councillors this week approved two resolutions from Ward 3 Coun. Angela Caputo: one proposing the city enroll in Dolly Parton's nonprofit Imagination Library, the other suggesting a bridge on the city's Hub Trail system be designated as the Sault's Rainbow Bridge – where beloved departed pets could be remembered.