Prince Albert City Council has taken the first step towards establishing a new reserve that will accept donations and grants to fund improved public safety.
Council approved a motion asking administration to look into the feasibility of such a reserve during Monday’s city council meeting.
“I think it’s important as a community that we have this option,” said Coun. Blake Edwards, who brought the motion forward. “We can move forward with certain things that we believe can improve public safety in our community… We can work together with different organizations and get the dollars that are needed.”
Edwards said such a fund could pay for drones, aerial searches, and improved search and rescue equipment, among other things. He’s confident residents would donate to such a reserve if it existed.
“There are many businesses and many people in the community who are willing to provide money by donation if it goes towards specific things that can help public safety,” he said.
Mayor Bill Powalinsky said Edwards’ request was a practical one. He said Prince Albert city police and the board of police commissioners cannot accept donations.
Previously, he was thinking about lobbying for the creation of a community foundation to fill the funding gap, but was satisfied with a Public Safety Reserve.
“I think it’s a brilliant move,” Powalinsky said during the meeting. “Certainly, if we can map out the priorities and the dollar values for people to relate to, I have no doubt that we’ll be successful.”
Coun. Daniel Brown seconded Edwards’ motion. City administration has 90 days to provide a report on the subject.
