City Council has approved a new task force to address growing concerns over public safety in Fredericton.
The Mayor’s Community Safety Task Force will be made up of 18 members, including representatives from all three orders of government, residents, program delivery organizations and members of the business community. Mayor Kate Rogers and Fredericton Police Chief Gary Forward will co-chair the group.
The purpose of the Task Force is to bring together relevant stakeholders to develop recommendations to improve community safety. The group will consider areas of action related to justice, policing, mental health, addictions, living rough, and other associated issues.
“This is a challenging time for the Fredericton community. Cities across the country are being faced with socioeconomic realities that are impacting safety for residents and businesses. Fredericton is no exception” said Mayor Kate Rogers. “Through this Task Force, we will come together to address root causes and recommend solutions to ensure our community feels safe and supported by Fredericton City Council.”
The Task Force was created following two public safety events with members from the local business community who have raised concerns over drug usage, vandalism, and break-ins throughout the greater Fredericton area over the past two years. The first Community Safety Task Force meeting will take place in December and recommendations will be presented to Fredericton City Council early next year.
“The establishment of the Community Safety Task Force represents a significant step towards addressing the complex public safety challenges facing Fredericton, “ Police Chief Gary Forward. “Through this Task Force, we’re committing to address these challenges by working collaboratively to ensure a safer and more secure environment for all residents.”
In addition to the Mayor’s Community Safety Task Force, the City has expanded the Community Safety Services Unit (CSSU) to deliver 24/7 service. CSSU provides public education on trail etiquette, monitors for vandalism, and works with local groups to help people experiencing homelessness. The City has allocated $100,000 in its 2025 budget for additional cameras, expanding on the 26 public safety cameras and four community webcams already in place.
The Fredericton Police Force also has a robust recruitment and retention strategy to attract top talent to the Fredericton Police Force including the establishment of the APA (Atlantic Police Academy) satellite training facility. Orientation started in November and 12 new cadets will join the Fredericton Police Force ranks once they’ve completed the program.
Any unwanted activity should continue to be reported to the Fredericton Police Force at 506-460-2300.