For Immediate Release: September 10, 2025
#2025-08
SMITHERS, B.C. —The Town of Smithers is moving forward with several important initiatives to strengthen community safety and support vulnerable residents.
At the Regular Meeting of Council held on September 9, 2025, Council awarded a contract for security coverage at the Temporary Overnight Sheltering Area (TOSA) and periodic roving patrols of the downtown core and strategic community locations. Security personnel will be patrol from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. weekdays and 24 hours on weekends and statutory holidays beginning in October 2025. The enhanced security presence will provide consistent monitoring, deter disruptive behaviour, and support the safety and well-being of TOSA residents and the community.
This security initiative will be fully funded through Resource Benefits Alliance funding and will not impact local property taxes. While this added support is an important step in fostering safety and order at TOSA, the Town recognizes that this is not a long-term solution. The Town of Smithers continues to advocate to all levels of government for stronger systems of care, more accessible health and social supports, additional housing, and safer living conditions for all community members.
The Town has also adopted Bylaw No. 1999, effective August 19, 2025. This bylaw enhances the authority of Bylaw Enforcement Officers to more effectively enforce sheltering rules, clarify expectations, and support health and safety for all site users. View the full bylaw here.
In addition to these local measures, the Smithers RCMP recently secured funding through the Community Safety and Targeted Enforcement Program (C-STEP). This funding will enable:
- Increased proactive patrols in the downtown core and surrounding areas.
- Earlier connections to health and social supports.
- Prevention of crises before they escalate to police involvement.
- Enhanced community safety without additional costs to the municipality.
These initiatives reflect the Town and RCMP’s ongoing efforts to improve safety and well-being in the community, while continuing to advocate for long-term, sustainable solutions.
-30-
Media Contact:
Samantha LeBlanc, Engagement and Communications Officer
Town of Smithers
Communications@smithers.ca
250-847-1600