Public Safety
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Priorities |
January 2008 |
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Deputies on patrol (24 hours) |
1 |
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Fire Stations |
1 |
The population is nearly 11,000. Canyon Lake continues to be one of the safest cities in the entire U.S. There were 175 reported Part One incidents (those tracked by the FBI), which equates to less than 16 crimes per 1000 persons. The Canyon Lake Police Department instituted a new approach for 2008, consisting of systematically following crime trends through analysis of crime trends every two weeks. At the August 6, 2008 City Council meeting, the Police Chief announced a reduction in crime of nearly 25 percent.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is responsible for municipal police duties in 13 of the county’s 24 incorporated cities. The Perris Station has provided coverage for Canyon Lake since July 1, 1996. The contractual agreement called for the sheriff’s department to provide the following law enforcement services:
A sheriff’s department captain to act as police chief
24 hours of supported daily patrol services
One full-time community oriented policing and problem-solving (C.O.P.P.S.) deputy
Administrative, investigative, and logistical support
Between 2006 and 2007, there was an increase in public intoxication and driving under the influence. In the same period, arrests were up significantly for misdemeanors and slightly for felonies. There was an increase of 9% in total calls. Most were area checks (41%) and traffic citations (28%).
CAL-COPS grant funds were used in conjunction with additional money budgeted by the police department especially for traffic enforcement. This allowed for additional radar enforcement and driving safety checkpoints. The additional traffic enforcement included four motor officers who patrolled an average of 16 hours per week. Citations have gone up and accidents have gone down.
The Canyon Lake Police Department responds to and handles traffic collisions occurring within the city limits, including inside the gated community. Officers have added responsibility of investigating boating accidents.
The total City budget for law enforcement in 2006-2007 was $1,211,700.00. The city budget for 2007-2008 was $1,400,000.00. The department purchased two new patrol cars for $85,000.00. There are mobile computers in its two new patrol cars. An additional $105,000.00 was allocated for additional duty, an extra 16 hours per week of traffic enforcement and a second patrol deputy to work on Friday and Saturday nights. The California Office of Criminal Justice Planning provides grants for bicycle patrol, mounted patrol, D.U.I. enforcement, marine patrol, and other high-visibility programs.
Community Oriented Policing is intended to combat crime and reduce recidivism (repeat offences). Officers identify crime and resolve public nuisance issues. Once recognized, the nuisances are addressed through civil processes and criminal prosecution.
The police department works closely with the Public Safety Committee, the City Council, and the City Manager, to create and enforce ordinances designed to enhance the quality of life for CL residents. A noise ordinance was enacted as well as an ordinance that limited where sex offenders can go. The ordinance prohibits sex offenders from being present within 500 feet of a “child safety zone” (parks, bus stops and schools). There is a Citizen Volunteer program to perform logistical, clerical and specialized duties. Over 200 hours per year are given from two volunteers. Thanks to all police personnel and volunteers for their efforts to protect and preserve our safety.
* Information from the 2007 Annual report of the City of Canyon Lake Police.
We have to maintain these levels of police protection for our residents. As development increases, we will be called upon to provide more services at greater cost.
Fire Company 60 was formed in May, 1978. The Fire Company’s “fleet” includes a squad, which handles the community’s special needs and is equipped with specialized equipment including the jaws of life. There is also water rescue equipment to assist in the Emergency Preparedness program. As First Responders, our volunteer firemen are the heart of Canyon Lake’s emergency response. They deserve our support and gratitude.