Building a safer Fort Richmond together

Fort Richmond

As spring settles in Fort Richmond, I am reminded of the incredible community-driven spirit that defines our neighbourhood. To serve you effectively, I believe in seeing the vital work happening on our streets firsthand. With National Police Week approaching from May 10 to 16, I recently spent an evening with the dedicated officers of the West District station for a patrol ride-along.

The experience began at the station, where I watched the seamless co-ordination required to manage the safety of our growing community. While on patrol, the officers responded to calls from local businesses. At one such call to a 7-Eleven, they ensured the situation was safe and provided staff with practical guidance on how to respond to similar incidents in the future. These interactions give officers the opportunity to directly support entrepreneurs by addressing safety concerns and sharing preventative strategies, while also strengthening the trust that helps keep our local economy resilient.

During the ride, I observed officers responding to a range of urgent calls with remarkable composure. In one instance, they handled a sensitive residential matter with a level of empathy and patience that truly showcased their professionalism. Their ability to switch instantly from high-alert navigation to calm, expert judgment is a testament to the training and character of the Winnipeg Police Service. Witnessing these interactions has transformed my understanding of the diverse roles our officers must inhabit, revealing that they are often called upon to be mediators, supporters, and protectors all within a single shift

I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the Winnipeg Police Association – specifically president Cory Wiles and vice-president Phil Neyron – for their leadership and support. I am also deeply appreciative of Winnipeg Police Service Insp. Max Waddell and Patrol Sgt. Robin Kipling for making this informative and memorable experience possible. Their bravery and dedication ensure that whether you are relaxing in our beautiful local parks or spending a quiet evening at home with your family, you can do so with a sense of security.

Protecting this collective sense of security for every household in Fort Richmond is a responsibility I carry with me into every debate and decision-making process of the Legislature. It is the greatest honour to serve as your representative and to champion the needs of Fort Richmond. If you have thoughts to share or need assistance with provincial services, please reach out by email at jennifer.chen@yourmanitoba.ca, call 431-294-9854, or visit our office at Unit E-2810 Pembina Hwy.

Together, we are building a safer and more vibrant Manitoba for everyone.