Sarnia's new downtown village constable is in the process of meeting with business owners as he gains a better understanding of their concerns and challenges.
The Sarnia Police Service (SPS) recently launched a pilot project to increase visibility in the downtown and Mitton Village areas during the summer months, naming Cst. Jamie Fraser to the new, dedicated position.
Fraser said public safety is his number one priority, and he believes having a consistent public presence will be a good deterrent for criminal activity.
In an interview with Sarnia News Today, Fraser said he started meeting with business owners last week and plans to meet with more proprietors over the next two weeks.
"So far, it's been very positive. Everyone seems excited that there's going to be a constant police presence downtown and in the area," he said. "As far as current issues, to be honest there hasn't been a whole lot. There's the odd business dealing with obviously some open drug use and some homelessness challenges. But together with me, our [Integrated Mobile Police and Community Team] and our [Mobile Health Engagement and Response Team], we're going to do everything we can to facilitate the best option for the businesses as well as the people going through their struggles."
The scope of the project includes Front Street, Christina Street, and the Mitton Village areas. Fraser said he will patrol the areas by bike, foot, and vehicle.
The pilot project is a slight variation from the downtown foot and bike patrol launched last year which was supported by the cadet and auxiliary programs.
A SPS spokesperson said Fraser will be the foot and bike patrol but may be accompanied by other officers when required or when resources are available, whether it's for a special event, a planned project, or in response to a community concern.
"We're hopeful this is the first of many steps toward helping us improve some of the day-to-day challenges we face as business owners," said Downtown Collective Co-Chair Mia Clarke.
Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce CEO Carrie McEachran also said the organization is pleased to see the launch of the new downtown village constable.
"This program not only enhances safety and security in our downtown area but also fosters a welcoming environment for both businesses and visitors," said McEachran. "A safer community is essential for economic growth, and we believe that a strong partnership with local law enforcement will play a vital role in achieving this goal."
Police Chief Derek Davis previously said in February the service was pondering the idea of adding a dedicated patrol officer to the city's downtown core but it depended on available funds.
In a recent social media post, Davis said Fraser will do a great job in the role.
"The safety of our downtown, as with the rest of our city, is an important consideration when looking to attract growth and economic investment," read the post on X. "A responsive, effective, and efficient police service, like Sarnia Police, can be a valuable municipal asset."
Fraser said he's "extremely excited" for the opportunity.
The downtown constable joined the Sarnia Police Service in 2023 after ending his hockey career.
Fraser, who was born and raised in Sarnia, played for the Sarnia Sting from 2004 to 2006 and played professionally in the U.S. and Austria.