Ahead of the new RCMP headquarters opening up in Pitt Meadows this spring, the new police detachment is issuing a call out for volunteers.
Back in 2019, under the direction of then mayor Bill Dingwall, Pitt Meadows council began reviewing local police services, and by November 2021 was given permission from the province to separate RCMP duties currently shared with Maple Ridge. In doing so, it launched plans for Pitt Meadows to create its own autonomous detachment. Construction began on the building at Harris Road Park two years later, and the new RCMP detachment is now set to open April 1.
There will be 24 full time officers, with four watches comprised of a corporal as watch commander and four constables as frontline officers. There will be the detachment commander officer in charge Staff Sgt. Michelle Luca, a sergeant, and a two members of a general investigative section.
The new force will exclusively police Pitt Meadows and the Katzie First Nation.
While construction continues on the new building, and work is ongoing behind the scenes to prepare for the official division, efforts are currently afoot to recruit community volunteers.
“The Pitt Meadows RCMP detachment is coming, and this is a unique opportunity to get involved early and help shape community safety in Pitt Meadows,” the city posted on social media this week.
Volunteer opportunities include participation in speed and cell watch, patrolling citizens watch, auto crime watch, and community events.
A series of information sessions are coming up late this month for people who are interested.
While a location was not revealed, the sessions are set for Monday, Jan. 19, from 10 to 11:30 a.m., another on Wednesday, Jan. 21, from 5 to 6:30 p.m., and finally on Friday, Jan. 23, from 2 to 3:30 p.m.
Those interested are asked to register by emailing: communitypolicingvolunteer@pittmeadows.ca or by calling 604-240-5139.
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