THUNDER BAY – Rebecca Johnson is currently a Councillor at Large in the City of Thunder Bay, she is seeking to be re-elected.
Here are Rebecca’s answers on the crime issue:
Question: Thunder Bay has formed a Crime Prevention Council, how long will it take before that Council meets, and how long afterward to implement its recommendations?
Answer: My understanding is that the new Crime Prevention Council Coordinator who will be starting her job as of Monday, October 25 will finalize the invitation list asking for a representative and alternate from the various organizations listed in the City Council resolution. Council appointments to the Council will be made on December 13. Once all have been confirmed a meeting will be held in mid-December. At that time the draft Terms of Reference will be reviewed and the final Terms forwarded to City Council. As with other Advisory Committees a Plan of Action needs to be developed with goals, objectives and timelines as well as responsibilities outlined. Should an initiative require funding it will have to go before City Council to be passed and incorporated into the annual budget.
Question: Over the past year, some on Council along with the Police Services Board have suggested the crime rates are not as bad as they looked.
What is your reaction to Thunder Bay being listed 23rd most dangerous city?
Answer: I am most concerned that we have crime at all. No matter where the City of Thunder Bay is on the list, it is something that must be addressed.
Question: The CEDC and Thunder Bay Tourism are working very hard to build our brand as a great place to work, visit and live.
Do you feel that Macleans Magazine’s article can harm those efforts? This is just one report which should not be taken lightly. It is the story of the week and we should consider its impact. We need to continue our work towards improving the statistics.
Answer:
Are there any other comments would you like to make?
It is recognized that Thunder Bay, as do many other communities, has as serious crime situation. We have to acknowledge we have a problem. We currently are developing a Drug Strategy, where I chair the Community Stakeholders Committee which will provide recommendations to address the major issues surrounding the misuse of drugs, including alcohol. The City has also established a Crime Prevention Council, who, with its community partners will examine the challenges facing the community in this area and work on community solutions.