The Town of Nipawin has been told that so far the back alley bylaw seems to be useful. (Susan McNeil/paNOW)  

By Doug Lett

Nipawin back alley bylaw

RCMP already using Nipawin back alley bylaw

Feb 12, 2023 | 8:00 AM

The town of Nipawin says feedback so far on its back alley bylaw has been favorable.

Late last year, the town brought in a bylaw banning people from being in alleys from midnight to 6 am.

There are exemptions for homeowners and others, but the idea is to help reduce the amount of crime the community is experiencing.

“They’ve (RCMP) reported that they’re very pleased with it,” said Nipawin Mayor Rennie Harper.

In its latest report to town council, Nipawin RCMP said they are already using it.

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“The RCMP checked 20+ people throughout the month of December,” said the report. “No charges have yet to be laid as warnings have proven to be sufficient. RCMP members consider this to be an excellent tool for their investigational toolbox.”

The town brought in the bylaw on November 14th, but the idea came out of a public meeting on crime earlier in the year.

People suggested a law similar to one brought in by Prince Albert in 2020.

While so far it seems to be having an effect, Mayor Harper cautioned things may change as the weather warms up.

“Realistically, it is winter, and things are a little different than they are in the summertime. And let’s wait and see how that translates into a warmer season,” she said.

The minimum fine under the bylaw is $500, and the maximum is $10,000. Exemptions include homeowners, business owners or employees, and people working for utility companies.

The town plans to review the bylaw in the future, to see whether it should continue.

When it was passed, the Mayor said approving it was a difficult decision.

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doug.lett@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @DougLettSK