Coquitlam RCMP is looking for input from the people it serves and protects as it prepares its draft strategic plan, a document that will guide decisions about services and resource allocation.
An online survey has been set up in order to gauge the public's priorities when it comes to crime and public safety, which will be incorporated into the three-year plan.
"When I joined the RCMP, the job of a police officer was to respond to calls and do investigations," Coquitlam RCMP Supt. Claude Wilcott said in a press release. "Now, our job is a lot more about connecting with the people we serve, establishing solid lines of communication and making sure we understand each other's needs and priorities.
"That's what this [survey] process is about and I'm really looking forward to seeing the results."
Through Sept. 23, anyone 18 or older who lives, works or goes to school in the villages of Anmore and Belcarra as well as the cities of Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam can have a say in the strategic plan. (Port Moody has its own city police department.)
The questions range from what the RCMP already does well in the community to what the organization could do to improve.
Participants are also asked what priority the police should place on issues such as speeding drivers, property crime, drug dealing and having a visible presence in the community.
Those who wish to fill out the online survey will remain anonymous and the RCMP said it will not track anyone's identity or keep personal information.
The survey can be found at www.surveymonkey.com/s/NP7VW75 and will be available until midnight on Sept. 23.
