The Township of Langley is pursuing a separation from its policing agreement with the City of Langley, citing concerns over unequal funding and resource distribution.
Concerns Over Policing Costs
Mayor Eric Woodward has expressed that the township pays more than its fair share of policing costs. He stated, “It has come to a point where the Township of Langley needs to move on and have its own detachment.”
Disparity in Service Levels
- Woodward highlighted that while both municipalities contribute equally to police services, the township bears a disproportionate burden.
- Currently, both municipalities pay 50% towards police services, but only one detachment serves both communities, leading to unequal service levels for residents.
Resource Allocation Issues
Woodward voiced frustration regarding the allocation of police resources. He claimed that:
- Some areas within the township receive inadequate coverage due to insufficient resources from the RCMP Detachment Commander Supt. Dave Nelson’s office.
- Conversely, other areas are over-policed due to high call volumes related to gang activity and substance abuse.
He emphasized the need for an independent detachment to gain control over local policing.
Response from Langley City
Langley City Mayor Val van den Broek rejected Woodward’s claims of unequal funding and resource distribution. She stated:
- Langley City also pays 50% towards police services, similar to the township.
- She disputed the notion of an unequal partnership in providing priority policing across the greater Langley area, asserting that both municipalities offer similar service levels.
However, she acknowledged that differences may arise based on specific circumstances, such as traffic volume or crime rates.
Support for Separate Detachments
Despite the disagreements, van den Broek expressed support for separate detachments if it would enhance public safety outcomes.
Council Decision
The Langley Township Council voted unanimously last week against continuing the shared cost arrangement with the City of Langley’s Police Service after a presentation by RCMP Chief Supt. Dave Nelson. The potential benefits discussed included:
- Improved response times
- Better communication between officers serving different jurisdictions
This decision was made despite concerns from local business owners about potential increased costs and higher taxes associated with separate detachments. A final decision will be made next month after further discussions among council members.
Related News
A recent report from Statistics Canada indicated that crime rates in British Columbia decreased significantly during the first half of the year compared to previous years, except for violent crimes, which remained steady.
The report emphasized the importance of maintaining effective law enforcement strategies, particularly those addressing the root causes of criminal behavior, such as:
- Poverty
- Substance abuse
- Mental health issues
By collaborating, local governments and law enforcement agencies can create safer communities where residents feel secure. This requires ongoing commitment and investment in resources to address the complex social issues driving criminal activity.
Ultimately, the goal should be to create an environment where everyone can thrive and live without fear of violence or crime, regardless of age, background, or socioeconomic status.
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