LANGLEY CITY, B.C. – Langley City is making it easier for residents to get help with neighbourhood and community safety concerns through a clearer one-stop approach at City Hall and a new Community Safety department.
The changes will help reduce back and forth for residents and improve coordination when an issue involves multiple City departments or community partners.
Residents should have a clearer way to bring neighbourhood concerns to City Hall, and more confidence that complex safety and well-being issues are being addressed with the right people involved,” said Mayor Nathan Pachal. “The Citizens’ Assembly challenged us to think differently, and this work turns those recommendations into practical improvements people can see and experience.”
The changes respond to recommendations from the Citizens’ Assembly on Community Safety and Well-being, which called for a more coordinated, prevention-focused approach to community safety.
Bylaw staff will transition into Community Safety Officer roles, continuing bylaw and parking responsibilities while placing greater emphasis on prevention, early engagement, education, de-escalation and connections to services.
The City will also work toward expanding its one-stop approach at City Hall to give residents a starting point for neighbourhood questions and concerns. This approach is expected to take shape through 2027 as the City coordinates internally, refines processes and connects issues with the appropriate department or community partner.
For example, if a resident notices an abandoned home and is unsure which department to contact, they can bring the concern to one City contact point. The City will coordinate internally to ensure it reaches the appropriate team or community partner, reducing the need for the resident to navigate City departments themselves.
Early transition steps are planned for 2026, with additional training, tools and supporting systems continuing into 2027. Residents will continue to use existing City service channels during the transition.
Additional comments from Citizens’ Assembly members
“This recommendation was one of the most in-depth and collaborative discussions we had throughout the Citizens' Assembly. It began as a recommendation for increased uniformed officer presence, but through thoughtful discussion and consensus, it evolved into a broader approach focused on prevention, visibility, and creating a safer community for everyone. I'm incredibly proud of the work we did together and hopeful it will help make a positive difference both now and for years to come."
Adam Larsen, Citizens' Assembly member
“This recommendation looks to improve safety for everyone in the community through connection, presence and prevention by combining targeted strategies at hot-spot locations with prevention and community-driven initiatives.
It started with adding more police and through ongoing learning, by hearing from service providers and listening to residents, evolved into safety for all: those who are unhoused, those visiting businesses, those who might not feel safe approaching police. This improves safety and perceptions of safety in public spaces without adding over-surveillance and stigma, and by keeping connection and care at the centre.”
Jenn Calado, Citizens' Assembly member
Media Contact
Ram Chungh
Manager, Communications and Public Engagement
604.240.3101
rchungh@langleycity.ca