Calgary implements new safety plan amid cost concerns

Calgary is launching a comprehensive new plan, "Safer Together," aimed at enhancing safety and well-being across the city. The initiative seeks to tackle complex issues including homelessness, domestic violence, poverty, and social isolation through a multi-faceted approach.

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The pursuit of community safety and individual safety is a multi-dimensional pursuit. No one initiative is going to deliver the outcomes that you and we all are looking for.

The "Safer Together" framework prioritizes five key areas: fostering communities where everyone belongs, improving safety in public spaces where people live, work, and play, strengthening support systems for overall well-being, addressing housing needs, and promoting financial security. City council approved the plan's framework in May, and recently received an update on its implementation strategy and associated costs.

City officials presented the action plan, which includes 15 initiatives to be rolled out over the next four years. These initiatives focus on infrastructure improvements in public spaces, enhancing the availability and coordination of services for the homeless population, and increasing access to free and low-cost support programs. The plan builds upon existing efforts, such as the Safety Hubs, which integrate resources from various city services.

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You don’t just send police in to bust up an encampment because they’ll be right back there a week later; you need to have wraparound supports to make sure everyone in those situations are getting the supports they need.

Council members are now deliberating on the financial implications, with three investment options presented for the upcoming budget. A full investment of $38 million annually would allow for expanded enforcement and earlier support. A partial investment of $28 million annually would lead to reduced outcomes, including fewer peace officers in public spaces and smaller investments in downtown and transit improvements. A third option of $23 million annually would put outcomes at risk, potentially eliminating key services like park peace officers and downtown revitalization efforts.

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I’m really glad the city is looking at this in a holistic way to make sure we can actually make some movement against this rather than simply the revolving door that we’ve had previously.