Safe Streets bylaw close

PRINCE GEORGE – Council has approved the first three readings of a new bylaw, called the Safe Streets bylaw. It sets out behaviours that will no longer be tolerated on city streets, such as aggressive panhandling and loitering.

“In addition to broken windows and physical threats, theft and vandalism, we have open fires, needles, used condoms,” noted Councillor Terri McConnachie. “And the garbage! My Gosh! The garbage we have to clean up!”

She noted the proposed bylaw doesn’t propose to punish the homeless, but those who exhibit bad behaviour. She also noted the number of endeavours the City has undertaken to deal with the homeless, drug addiction and mental health issues. But it was noted time and again that those “partners” in dealing with those issues, such as Northern Health and BC Housing, have failed the City.