Richmond holds open houses to discuss future of RCMP

RICHMOND (NEWS 1130) – As Richmond decides whether to stick with the RCMP or create a municipal police force, there is another open house today. People living in Richmond have several things to consider before making a final decision.

Delta’s Police Chief Neil Dubord believes financially the RCMP could be the better option but he points out, in some cases, Mounties don’t stay in a community as long as municipal officers would. “The members of the RCMP are so fortunate to be able to have lots of opportunity both municipally, provincially, federally and internationally and as a result there is lots of movement and fluidity in that organization.”

While he doesn’t have a stake in this, he notes a municipal force comes with a police board, which is good for accountability and transparency. “That police board is involved with hiring and firing of a chief constable. It is involved in approving policy. It is also involved in just being able to provide a level of transparency to the public through the BC Police Act as well.”

Five public open houses have been scheduled for February to allow the public to learn more about the topic and provide their input. The open houses are:

  • Wednesday, February 17, 5-8 p.m., South Arm Community Centre, 8880 Williams Road
  • Thursday, February 18, 5-8 p.m., East Richmond Community Hall, 12360 Cambie Road
  • Saturday, February 20, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Thompson Community Centre, 5151 Granville Avenue
  • Tuesday, February 23, 5-8 p.m., Steveston Community Centre, 4111 Moncton Street
  • Wednesday, February 24, 5-8 p.m., Richmond City Hall, 6911 No. 3 Road

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