COLD LAKE - In response to escalating security concerns at the Cold Lake Energy Centre, City council is actively considering plans to compartmentalize spaces within the facility. The move aims to limit public access during the day, particularly on weekdays, and enhance overall security at the recreation facility.
The decision emerged from a Corporate Priorities meeting held on Feb. 20. The facility has witnessed a surge in incidents, including fights, vandalism, and significant disruptions, prompting the need for a comprehensive security strategy.
City of Cold Lake Mayor Craig Copeland expressed the severity of the situation, saying, “We’ve had challenges with costly vandalism, and there have been some significant fights between groups of youth that have been a significant cause for concern.”
During the meeting, detailed accounts of security challenges faced by the Cold Lake Energy Centre were presented, providing insights into the urgency of the proposed measures. CAO Kevin Nagoya highlighted various incidents, stating, “You can see attempted fire-startings, punching in walls, garbage being intentionally thrown around, and even stolen facility property. There have been instances of intimidation, actual fighting, and damages to elevators, including stolen vehicles from the Energy Centre.”
The proposed plan involves establishing a single point of access during morning and daytime hours from Monday to Friday, monitored through the Energy Centre’s front doors. Evening hours and weekends would retain the usual access through all three entrances, accommodating public programming.
“There are all kinds of issues that are happening throughout the facility. This is not all exhaustive. There are different ratings. Some of it leans towards during daytime operating hours versus that evening hours,” says Nagoya.
“We need to prevent the hallways and empty spaces from becoming hangouts for idle youth,” Copeland added.
The plan also includes the consideration of rolling gates, automated doors, or barriers to restrict access to certain areas when programming is not in session. Additionally, the City is exploring the implementation of security patrols outside the facility during off hours, incurring an additional annual cost of approximately $150,000, according to the City of Cold Lake.
A proposed enhancement to the surveillance camera system is also on the table, designed to deter vandalism and anti-social behavior. The upgraded system aims to provide crucial evidence to law enforcement for swift prosecution or fines in case of criminal acts.
“Council is proud of the facility and the amenities it offers the public. It is also a great source of public pride and has hosted many important public events. But it has grown tremendously over the years, and our approach to access and security needs to grow with it,” says Nagoya.
Addressing recent break-ins, Nagoya added, “We know that these changes will affect customer service and, in some cases, might be an inconvenience, but the reality is that as the facility grows, we need to have a better handle on what people can access and when they can do so.”
Council has agreed to allow administration to move forward with developing detailed plans for security and compartmentalization, with further discussions anticipated at future meetings.
