City CAO Tim Pley issued a dire warning to council this week, that crime is fast becoming the biggest issue in Port Alberni
Mayor Mike Ruttan said after a meeting with local court staff, the problem is bigger than they’ve been told by other sources
He said most of the crimes being committed are petty, annoying crimes related to addiction and poverty.
Ruttan wants to coordinate a multi-agency, multi-participant review that includes police, drug and alcohol, and social service groups to search for solutions.
He said most of the crimes being committed are related to drug and alcohol addiction and poverty, and by addressing root causes he hopes the crime rate will drop.