News Article Archive

Enforcement Staff Considered

Richard Rolke, Vernon Morning Star
February 16, 2010

Enderby officials are trying to decide if there’s a need for designated bylaw enforcement staff.

Council has received a presentation from the Commissionaires to provide bylaw enforcement services under contract.

“They work for quite a few small communities,” said Mayor Dee Wejr.

Currently, the city has no staff designated completely to enforcing bylaws, and employees will do so when their duties allow.

Wejr admits that the present situation has been a concern for some residents.

“I’m getting the feeling that people are frustrated and don’t complain (about offences) because bylaws are not being enforced,” she said.

“We may have reached a point in our growth where it may be something we need.”

The Commissionaires, which is a not-for-profit society, provides bylaw enforcement services in 15 Interior municipalities, including Lake Country, Armstrong and Coldstream.

“We have extensive experience in providing a wide range of relevant services, including those that may be specifically requested by the City of Enderby for bylaw enforcement,” said Brian Garvin, director of operations, in a written presentation to council.

“We have a commitment to providing a high level of customer service, predominantly with respect to assisting the public with bylaw-related matters; liaison/assistance to the RCMP in this area; and liaison. assistance to other agencies when required.”

The concept of bylaw enforcement will be discussed by council, but Wejr believes any decision may have to wait until 2011 as the 2010 budget is basically completed.

Wejr also says council needs to consider the financial impact on taxpayers if a new service is added.

“Everything costs money,” she said.

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