Fredericton creates new task force to address public safety concerns

Fredericton is creating a new task force to address growing concerns about public safety in the city.

The Community Safety Task Force will be made up of about 18 members, including representatives from all three orders of government, residents, program delivery organizations and members of the business community.

Fredericton Mayor Kate Rogers and Fredericton Police Chief Gary Forward will co-chair the group.

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“This is a challenging time for the Fredericton community. Cities across the country are being faced with socioeconomic realities that are impacting safety for residents and businesses. Fredericton is no exception,” said Rogers in a news release Tuesday. “Through this task force, we will come together to address root causes and recommend solutions to ensure our community feels safe and supported by Fredericton City Council.”

The group will consider areas of action related to justice, policing, mental health, addictions, living rough and other associated issues.

The force is being created after two public safety events with members from the local business community raised concerns about drug usage, vandalism and break-ins throughout the Fredericton area over the past two years.

“No one thinks that we’re going to solve these problems overnight as that is just not possible,” said Rogers. “They didn’t arise overnight so it is just going to be chipping away, but we can best do it when we’re doing it together.”

The group’s first meeting is scheduled for this month and recommendations will be presented to city council early next year.

“The establishment of the Community Safety Task Force represents a significant step towards addressing the complex public safety challenges facing Fredericton,” said Forward. “Through this task force, we’re committing to address these challenges by working collaboratively to ensure a safer and more secure environment for all residents.”

The City of Fredericton also expanded the Community Safety Services Unit to deliver 24/7 service.

The unit provides public education on trail etiquette, monitors for vandalism, and works with local groups to help people experiencing homelessness.

In addition, the city has put aside $100,000 in its 2025 budget for additional cameras, expanding on the 26 public safety cameras and four community webcams already in place.

With files from CTV Atlantic's Avery MacRae.

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