Safety concerns have been raised about the downtown in recent weeks.

North Bay City Councillor Dave Mendicino says a committee has been formed to look at the issue and how to address it.

He says several groups are represented including the North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce, Heritage North Bay, The DIA and Mental Health and Addiction Providers.

He says one solution they’re looking at is hiring a mental health and addiction provider to patrol the streets. He says it was tried in Guelph to much success.

“The ones she couldn’t de-escalate the police were contacted and they were able to assist her,” he says.

He says 80 % of the cases were dealt with without having to bring in police.

“This individual was able to identify and relate to the individuals in the downtown and assist them. It brought a sense of calm and the business owners owners loved it too. They provided a lot of great feedback,” Mendicino says.

Mendicino says this is not a one solution issue and they expect to announce their comprehensive plan soon.

(photo by station staff)

Filed under: dave-mendicino, downtown