Title
Parkland County Enforcement Services Water Safety Initiative Pilot Project
Proposed Motion(s)
That the Governance and Priorities Committee accept the attached Administrative report as information; further to provide direction on which option they wish Administration pursue with regards to this initiative.
Body
Administration Recommendation(s)
Administration's position is Parkland County Enforcement Services does not have the adequate staff to continue this pilot project during peak summer times. Enforcement issues throughout Parkland County, such as Range Road 23 Pit, Range Road 33 bush parties, and the water rafting on the Pembina River, coupled with vacation, and increase demands for service, especially on weekends, means with current staffing levels Enforcement Services cannot continue this initiative to its full potential. Administration recommends Option 1, that the County not continue with this initiative.
Purpose
On February 21, 2012, Council directed Administration to conduct the Water Safety Initiative. It was hoped two water patrols May - September would be conducted, for a total of 10 patrols. Due operational priorities, such as the Rge Rd 23 Pit, and the Pembina River Water Rafting, only four were conducted; 1 - June, 1 - July, 1 - August, 1 - September.
Summary
Enforcement Services was not able to conduct the number of expected patrols, as a result of increase demands for service on summer weekends. These demands were not new, they are similar each summer. Current staffing levels will not allow this project to be successful.
Administration has identified options available in the attached Administrative Report, along with estimated costs for each.
Option 1 - Discontinue, no cost implications.
Option 2 - Continue Pilot Project for one more season, costs absorbed within annual operating budget in 2013.
Option 3 - Continue program with current staff with appropriate equipment and staff training, cost is $55,000 in 2013.
Option 4 - Implement S.A.V.E. Program (Snowmobile, All-Terrain Vehicle, Vessel, Education/Enforcement) as per Strategic Plan. This would include additional staff member, along with necessary resources for program. Cost is $55,000 for equipment and training, plus additional $85,000 in staff.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications (As Required)
County Strategic Plan: Quality of Life - 1.3 Parkland County will enhance the services we provide to our residents.
Quality of Life - 1.5 - Parkland County will add to existing services and initiatives to increase public safety.
Financial Impact:
No Cost associated with recommendation.
Source of Funding: N/A
Other (As Required)