A new partnership with a local business has given Community Policing the fuel it needs to carry out its work.
Load'em Up Petroleums has agreed to partner with Prince George Community Policing to provide gasoline for the service's sponsored vehicles.
Community Policing currently has three sponsored vehicles, which were donated by Ken Goss, Wood Wheaton and Hub City Motors. They are used by staff and volunteers to carry out crime prevention programs and services like Block Watch, Citizens Patrol and home/business security evaluations.
But City of Prince George budget cuts to the tune of nearly $150,000 meant Community Policing no longer had the $3,000 in available funds necessary to keep those three vehicles on the road.
"It's great to be able to assist Community Policing with a basic need like fuel, and be a partner in crime prevention," said Load'em Up Petroleums manager Dave Martin.
The budget cuts also eliminated two community policing civilian positions and the Community Policing centre satellite office in the Hart.
"We no longer have a budget for fuel and that's why we requested and received support from the community, specifically from Load'em Up Petroleums," said Community Policing co-ordinator Linda Parker.
Prince George Community Policing supports citizens in achieving the common goals of safe homes and safe communities through police-supported educational programs and services.
"The generous fuel sponsorship by Load'em Up Petroleums fulfills an immediate need by Community Policing and reflects dedication to the community," said Cpl. Carissa Hornoi, who oversees Community Policing. "Our volunteer-based programs depend on, and welcome the ongoing support, of local business in our crime prevention effort."
