Wascana Centre Welcomes Community Safety Officers to the Park

Released on May 26, 2021

Starting This Spring Special Constables Will Patrol Wascana Centre By Bike 

The Provincial Capital Commission has launched a new public safety program which will see Community Safety Officers (CSO) patrolling Wascana Centre on foot and bicycle along with traditional patrol vehicles. 

"These officers will not only serve as goodwill ambassadors for Wascana Centre, but will also help create a space that is safe, healthy and enjoyable for all visitors," Minister Responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission Don McMorris said.  "We look forward to the public engaging with them in the park and on bike patrols this summer."

The CSO program emphasizes community engagement and helps create an environment of safety and wellbeing in Wascana Centre with officers on hand to answer questions and provide assistance to all park patrons.  

"The new Community Safety Officer program provides visitors a reassuring and visible presence in Wascana Centre," Provincial Capital Commission CEO Monique Goffinet Miller said.  "Bicycles will make it easier for constables to get to areas that in the past were a challenge like the trails east of the Science Centre and into the wetlands habitat.  Having the CSO's cycling is also part of our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint through the park."

CSOs have full peace officer powers and will support the Regina Police Service and security agencies within the park.  Their duties include:  

• Enforcement of the Traffic Safety Act; 
• Enforcement of the Alcohol and Gaming Regulations Act and Cannabis Control Act;
• Enforcement of Provincial Capital Commission bylaws such as parking, fishing, swimming, boating, fire safety, and event oversight and security;
• General security to control littering, loitering and disorderly conduct;
• Education and encouragement on current COVID-19 safety protocols; and
• First aid.

"Now that they have completed their training, the new officers are excited to tune up their bikes, put on their safety gear, get outside and start interacting with patrons of the park," Provincial Capital Commission Community Safety Officer Program Manager Sergeant Daryl Chernoff said.

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