Swift Current examining Safe Public Spaces Bylaw

The City of Swift Current is considering a bylaw that would adopt the standards set out in the Safe Public Spaces Act as laid out by the province of Saskatchewan. 

The proposed Safe Public Spaces Bylaw would implement new guidelines governing the possession, transport and storage of items such as large knives, machetes or bear spray, and prohibit any modifications that aid in the concealment of a weapon.

It provides law officers with the authority to seize such items in public spaces where a threat to public safety exists, regardless of whether criminal charges are laid. It would also qualify for enforcement through provincial offence provisions.

The Act includes exemptions for such items for menial, non-weapon use. City council elected to waive notice of its intention to adopt the bylaw for the time being.

City clerk Jackie Schlamp clarified that the bylaw defines public spaces as a public building, park, playground or land people can enter without requiring consent.

"There are a number of spaces that I can think of within our community," said Schlamp. "We just want to ensure that something like this is enacted where city council is well-rounded and aware of what it looks like."

At the urging of Swift Current Coun. Plewis, the bylaw was only given an initial reading for the first time.

"I think while I think I'm generally in favour of this bylaw," said Plewis. "There are some concerns, and there's quite a bit of information to go through. I think that council, while, I think, generally supportive of this, would like the opportunity to perhaps hear from Staff Sergeant Gordon (Swift Current Municipal RCMP Detachment) directly on these issues and be able to consider that before finally adopting it."

In the official bylaw presentation, it was noted that members of city administration had met with Gordon to review the legislation. It was noted he expressed support for council’s adoption of the bylaw and said it would “enhance the RCMP’s ability to address public safety concerns, ensure consistent enforcement, and to operate under a standardized provincial framework.”