The County of Barrhead is pleased to announce the appointment of Shae Guy as their full-time Community Peace Officer.
The County says the decision to bring this crucial service in-house and reflects its dedication to public safety and commitment to ensuring a higher standard of enforcement services for its residents.
According to officials, Officer Guy assumed responsibilities on Dec. 12, 2023, to begin serving county residents and addressing bylaw concerns in the county. Following final approval & appointment by Alberta’s Solicitor General, Officer Guy will be further authorized to address traffic management and enact provincial legislation.
According to RCMP, part-time bylaw enforcement services were previously contracted from neighbouring municipalities. Officials believe bringing this vital service in-house allows for a more community-centric approach to addressing local enforcement concerns and enhanced hours of service in the community. Officials say this also allows residents to have an officer in close proximity for more timely response and more proactive patrols.
Mounties say the County CPO will work collaboratively with local law enforcement, engage with community members, provide educational resources, and administer bylaw enforcement. Hiring the County’s own CPO is expected to allow residents to see improved services regarding responses to noise & bylaw complaints in residential subdivisions, handling vicious dogs, traffic management, as well as permit compliance and stop orders under the Land Use Bylaw. The County says that by hiring a dedicated CPO will strengthen connections with residents, proactively address community concerns, and provide a visible and accessible presence for local safety.
“Council heard from residents that they were looking for an increase in Bylaw & Peace Officer services, and the deployment of a full-time officer will help,” said County of Barrhead Reeve Doug Drozd. “Animal and property issues are often extremely frustrating and now residents can get the guidance and support they need from our CPO.”
“We’ve been working towards this day for a while but the wait has been worth it,” added County Manager Debbie Oyarzun. “The County is fortunate to have attracted such a qualified individual in CPO Shae Guy. His experience in rural Alberta and his past role as a training officer gives me confidence that our program is in great hands.”
The County of Barrhead invites residents to welcome Officer Guy to the community. They believe his role will be pivotal in fostering a safer and better-served community for all residents of the County of Barrhead.
