Stronger presence, safer spaces: Rutland sees boost in community safety resources and services

News Release

The City of Kelowna, in partnership with the Kelowna RCMP and the Uptown Rutland Business Association (URBA), is strengthening community safety in Rutland with a coordinated approach to enhanced services through targeted resources and community-led initiatives.

The investments are in response to feedback gathered through the Community Safety Business Forum in January as well as online community engagement. It builds on the progress already being made through strong local partnerships.

“People want to feel safe in their neighbourhoods, and that starts with visible presence, coordinated action and strong community partnerships,” said Mayor Tom Dyas. “In Rutland, we’re bringing together City teams, the RCMP and URBA to deliver practical improvements that make a real difference, from increased safety to cleaner, more welcoming public spaces.”

Key improvements in Rutland include expanded support for a renewed URBA On-Call program, an increase in Bylaw Officers dedicated to Rutland, and enhanced cleaning through the Community Care program.

The On-Call program, delivered by URBA with enhanced City funding and supports from the City’s community safety department, provides a visible, on-the-ground presence focused on safety, cleanliness and connecting businesses and residents with the right supports.

The City has expanded its investment in community safety in Rutland, which remains the only neighbourhood with full-time dedicated bylaw officers. That team has recently doubled from two to four officers focused exclusively on the area. This team provides a stronger local presence, deeper knowledge of community issues and more responsive, on-the-ground support, while continuing to be supported by the full city-wide bylaw team.

The Community Care program, focused on neighbourhood cleanliness, has also expanded from three to five days per week. The program supports community cleanup, and maintaining safer, more welcoming public spaces for all.

The introduction of these initiatives in recent weeks builds upon the introduction of other programs earlier this year designed to prevent crime, improve safety and senses of safety, and increase enforcement outcomes. This includes the launch of the Business CCTV Registry, the introduction of the Crisis Response Community-Led Program, enhanced no-cost Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) for businesses and the Business Security Enhancement Rebate Program.

“Community safety is strengthened when we take a proactive, coordinated approach,” said Darren Caul, Community Safety Director. “Working alongside our partners, we’re able to focus on relationship building, early intervention and addressing issues before they escalate, while maintaining a visible presence in the community.”

This coordinated approach is supported by strong collaboration between the City, RCMP and community partners, ensuring efforts are aligned and responsive to the needs of the Rutland community.

“This work reflects what’s possible when partners come together with a shared commitment to community safety,” said Cathy Paterson, Interim Executive Director of the Uptown Rutland Business Association. “Through initiatives like URBA On-Call and ongoing collaboration with the City and RCMP, we’re supporting a safer, cleaner and more vibrant neighbourhood for businesses, residents and visitors.”

The City, RCMP and community partners will continue to monitor progress and adapt services to ensure resources remain responsive to local needs.

For more information about community safety initiatives and other ongoing projects visit kelowna.ca/safety.