Written by Gwen Black, Policy and Government Relations Manager, The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce
The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce has released its Community Safety Policy Position, outlining practical steps businesses and government leaders can take to build a safer Winnipeg.
Across surveys and consultations, crime consistently emerges as a top concern for our members – impacting growth, investment, and customer and employee confidence. Our vision is a Winnipeg where safety drives investment and prosperity, and this new member-informed position outlines actions to make that vision real.
Read on for key takeaways to a safer Winnipeg.
Three Takeaways from Our New Community Safety Policy Position
1. Focus on crime’s roots
Our members believe a safer city starts with people across communities being supported, resourced, and trusted. To truly improve safety, we must focus not just on crime itself, but also tackling its root causes, such as poverty, addiction, affordable housing, and lack of mental healthcare.
Caring for all residents is vital to the city’s economic growth, as they are customers, employees, business owners, and future entrepreneurs who help drive and sustain our local economy.
2. Better business support
Our members have told us the cost of crime is real, with rising insurance premiums, property damage, and lost confidence as a result. That’s why we’re calling on the Province of Manitoba to:
- Reinstate the Retail Crime Task Force
- Expand the Manitoba Security Rebate Program
- Continue reliable funding for the Downtown Community Safety Partnership and Winnipeg Police Service
These supports help our members protect their investment and keep our city vibrant.
3. A strong federal response:
Local safety requires action at the national level. We are urging the federal government to review and modernize legislation – including bail reform, the Criminal Code, and Youth Criminal Justice Act – to reflect current social and community realities.
At the same time, we need expanded access to diversion programs addressing the human side of safety, such as housing, mental health and addiction services, workforce development. These wraparound supports are essential to rebuilding lives and revitalizing our economy.
A Safer Winnipeg for All
When we care for our people, support our business, and modernize our systems, we build a city where everyone can live, work, and invest with confidence.
Want to learn more? Read our Full Community Safety Policy Position or send your questions to our Policy and Government Relations Manager Gwen Black.
