KANATA SOUTH CRIME STATS SHOW IMPACT OF INCREASED REPORTING

The 2006/2007 crime statistics are mixed news for Kanata South. The number of offences being reported was up. However, a closer look at the crime statistics suggests that the reason for this may be increased reporting.

Statistics for crimes that always get reported like robbery or break and enter were unchanged or down slightly. Where there was a significant increase was crimes that people sometimes wonder about reporting. There were 90 more reports of mischief, which includes things like graffiti. Reports of theft under $5,000 were up by 53 calls.

Residents need to be aware that the crime statistics include all reports, even if it is for the same crime. This should not deter people from reporting crimes to the police. The more information the police get, the better.

If criminal offences are being committed it is important they get reported. The police base their allocation of resources on the reports they receive. When they get more information they are able to respond to problems more effectively.

I am concerned whenever I see an increase in crime in my community. However, from talking to residents, I know the problems are not new. What is changing is that people are making sure the police are aware. With the formation of three new Neighbourhood Watch Groups this year, I hope that trend will continue.  

Detailed information on crime statistics for Kanata South can be found on my website at www.feltmateforkanata.com.

Any increase in the number of crimes need to be addressed. The police know this. However, when more crimes are being reported, they have the information to get the job done.

OFFICIAL PLAN CHANGES TO BE RELEASED JANUARY 27

On February 2, City staff will be releasing proposals for changes to the Official Plan. Following the release of details, there will be a chance for people to ask questions and provide feedback. On March 31 at a joint Planning and Environment Committee/Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee meeting, people will have the opportunity to make presentations.

Over the long term, what is decided in the Official Plan will have a significant impact on tax levels. It will also determine how our city grows. Many of the problems with growth in our neighbourhoods can be traced back to decision made in the Official Plan process.

WHY SNOW PLOUGHING AND GARBAGE COLLECTION ARE NOT DISRUPTED BY STRIKES

Ottawa is unusual in that for most contract negotiations with employees, disagreements are resolved using binding arbitration instead of strikes. OC Transpo employees are the exception. Under binding arbitration, when it is not possible to negotiate a settlement, both sides present their positions to a neutral third party who imposes a settlement.

Like anything else there are advantages and drawbacks.

Unlike Toronto or Vancouver we have not had garbage pile up when municipal workers go on strike. We have not had to worry about how our roads will be ploughed.

The drawback is that under binding arbitration, both parties must accept the award of the arbitrator. When strikes/lockouts are an option both union members and council must approve the offer. Generally, this means wage settlements in Ottawa fall in the middle when compared to other cities.

WORKING FULL-TIME FOR KANATA SOUTH

I appreciate the chance to hear from you about issues affecting our community. You can reach me at 580-2752 (office), 580-2762 (fax), www.feltmateforkanata.com or peggy.feltmate@ottawa.ca