By Kaytlyn Poberznick

Downtown Crime

Prince George business calling for more policing after windows shattered in the downtown core

Sep 26, 2023 | 4:16 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Buckhorn Heating and Air Conditioning has 11 smashed windows, and it’s not the first time they’ve dealt with this type of destruction. From fires to graffiti and now broken windows, Al Russell, the owner of Buckhorn, is trying to figure out what the next step is when it comes to protecting their business.

“Office staff is almost scared to stay here late. They need somebody to be here when they’re here, and we have to lock our doors. So, it’s probably made me think of moving, but I haven’t got to that point yet.”

– Al Russell, Owner of Buckhorn Heating and Air Conditioning

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Trying to claim damages is a common story for many of the businesses in the area.

“Many local business owners, they’re seeing an increase in the costs that they’re having to pay out, whether it’s for insurance, deductibles or in some cases needing to do the work themselves to not face increased insurance deductibles. We’re also, unfortunately, hearing of examples where some businesses may not necessarily be approved for insurance because of the increased number of claims that are happening in areas of our downtown core.”

– Tim Bennett, City Councillor

Getting more security in areas like this is something that many business owners are hoping to see in the near future, which is something that Councillor Bennett says they’re working on.

“Next year’s budget council will then look at again increasing RCMP capacity. I think things have probably moved slower than, you know, both council and the community wish to see following the last election.”

Bennett says cost pressures are having an effect on everyone, especially our most vulnerable, which in turn he says has led to an increase in crime.