Saskatoon faces complex crime challenges that require more resources and new strategies, mayoral candidate Cynthia Block says.
At a campaign event on Monday, Block unveiled what she billed as her plan for a safer Saskatoon, touting a whole-city approach that would combine the work of police and the fire department with efforts within local communities.
“Community safety goes beyond policing,” Block said.
If elected mayor, she will ensure police have the necessary resources to address violent crime, organized crime and intimate partner crime, and will “champion new tools” to support the safety of transit operators and riders — but “building a safe city needs more than policing,” she said.
“My plan is a whole city approach, and it needs to be built from the ground up, from basic infrastructure and services to better connection to safety resources.”
Block said her safety plan includes working to create neighbourhood safety approaches, improve communication and coordinate resources. She also stressed the importance of communal and available safe spaces, including a drop-in centre for youth that would be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“Like basketball courts and ice rinks, it’s a place to grow up, build connection and a sense of belonging — especially when home isn’t safe,” Block said.
“It’s about building a strong social fabric that fosters connection, trust and resilience.”
Block committed to seeking new, targeted programs to help keep youth away from crime and to invest in well-maintained parks and community spaces.
“Community problems need community solutions,” she said.
Darlene Brander, a former chair of the board of police commissioners chair, spoke in support of Block’s safe city policy, saying it “addresses community safety in a way that includes the voices of community members and strategies that serve all city of Saskatoon citizens.”
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