The Pro Stop Auto Centre in Kelowna’s downtown core has been the target of vandalism once again, with office manager Jenna Odorizzi expressing frustration over the ongoing issues. The shop has faced vandalism, thefts, and break-ins since a homeless encampment opened nearby five years ago. In response to the increased criminal activity, the business has implemented security measures such as alarms and security gates. However, Odorizzi is concerned that the situation may worsen due to changes the City of Kelowna is making at the homeless encampment, including new hours of operation that will force individuals to vacate the premises each morning.
The change in hours at the homeless encampment is expected to increase loitering and potentially lead to more issues in the surrounding area, according to business owners like Tom Looijschelder, who has experienced repeated vandalism at his butcher shop since opening eight months ago. However, Kelowna RCMP has stated that with the implementation of stricter rules at the tent city, they will be able to divert officers to calls for service in the area as needed. The city, along with bylaw services, will be monitoring the impact on the neighborhood closely and plans to engage with businesses in the area to assess the situation.
The Pro Stop Auto Centre is already preparing to take additional preventative measures to protect themselves in light of the potential increase in crime. Odorizzi noted that they are considering enhancing their security measures to mitigate the risks posed by the changes at the homeless encampment. The business has already experienced significant challenges due to the ongoing criminal activity in the area and is concerned about the impact of the new operating hours at the encampment.
The community safety branch of the City of Kelowna will be actively monitoring the situation and engaging with businesses in the neighborhood to gauge the impact of the changes at the homeless encampment. Kevin Mead, acting community safety director, stated that they will be assessing both statistical data and the overall feeling in the neighborhood to ensure that they are addressing any potential issues effectively. With the impending changes, businesses in the area are taking proactive steps to safeguard their properties against potential vandalism and theft.
The ongoing challenges faced by businesses like the Pro Stop Auto Centre and local butcher shops highlight the need for proactive measures to address crime in the area. The impact of the homeless encampment on nearby businesses has been significant, with vandalism and theft posing a constant threat to the livelihood of these establishments. As the City of Kelowna implements changes at the encampment, it is crucial for all stakeholders to work together to address the issues and ensure the safety and security of businesses in the neighborhood.
Despite the concerns raised by business owners, Kelowna RCMP and the city authorities are taking steps to address the potential increase in crime in the area. With stricter rules and increased security measures at the homeless encampment, law enforcement agencies hope to minimize the impact on surrounding businesses and neighborhoods. By closely monitoring the situation and engaging with businesses directly, the city aims to proactively address any issues that may arise due to the changes at the encampment. Businesses like the Pro Stop Auto Centre are taking proactive steps to protect themselves, but collaboration between all stakeholders will be essential to address the root causes of crime in the area effectively.
