William Whyte powerline project aims to‘take the community back’

North End

The William Whyte neighbourhood — a section of the North End just nine by seven blocks in size — celebrated an important milestone on Oct. 20, with the introduction of the William Whyte Neighbourhood Association (WWNA) powerline.

The powerline — similar to established projects in neighbourhoods such as North Point Douglas — is a phone line open to those living in the neighbourhood, active from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week. It provides a community-driven alternative for those looking to report crime in the area, which could include everything from trap houses to graffiti.

The line can also be used by those living in substandard housing if they’re looking to report hazards or bylaw infractions their landlords refuse to fix, according to a release. Piles of rubble or garbage, or even improperly boarded vacant or boarded buildings nearby, are examples of things that could be reported via the powerline. (Despite its small size, William Whyte is home to approximately 200 vacant properties.)

Darrell Warren, WWNA president, said the powerline works in tandem with the association’s ongoing efforts to improve housing in the area.

“You can build as many houses as you want, but people won’t move in if they don’t feel safe,” he said.

The WWNA powerline was funded with $20,000 from the Federal Proceeds of Crime fund, and will operate in collaboration with Winnipeg Crimestoppers — a partnership that began to bloom earlier this year.

Warren said that he hopes to reduce the stigma surrounding Crimestoppers and educate community members on its independence, adding that people have been hesitant to use the service due to the false assumption that it’s an extension of the Winnipeg Police Service.

Crimestoppers has also produced a new series of signs — already posted around William Whyte — with the powerline number and other WWNA information for those without access to the resources already.

“You’ve shown that (Manitobans) look out for each other,” provincial Justice Minister Matt Wiebe said. “This powerline concept has proven results… a proven track record in helping communities. The calls make a difference… it really does help working people take their communities back.”

“This is an exciting day for me,” said community activist Sel Burrows, adding that, when the powerline in Point Douglas — which he co-ordinates — was originally established in 2007, “crime was totally out of control.”

Burrows was the person who began pushing for a William Whyte powerline, Warren said. In the 18 years that the Point Douglas line has been operating, everyone has treated the resource with respect.

“We need to look at getting power back in the community,” he said.

“I don’t see boundaries, we’re all North Enders,” Warren said, adding that his hopes are to get proposed solutions right — such as the powerline or improved housing — so that other areas in the city can follow suit.

“I believe this is a great city, and I believe the North End is a great, great place to live.”