Saint John is set to implement a two-year security initiative to tackle concerns regarding crime and public safety among residents and businesses. The program, known as the Community Safety and Security Team, will deploy private security personnel to areas identified by city officials as being most impacted by criminal activities, such as the uptown core, Waterloo village, and vicinity of local shelters.
According to Amy Poffenroth, the city’s Commissioner of Growth and Community Services, the primary focus of the initiative is to enhance deterrence and provide a visible presence in critical service zones. The security guards, who will not possess arrest powers, will primarily concentrate on de-escalating non-emergency situations. Operating round the clock, seven days a week, the team will consist of two guards per shift.
The guards will undergo training in handling narcan, mental health awareness, and trauma-informed practices. They will collaborate with law enforcement, emergency services, or other agencies as needed. The security services will be supplied by GardaWorld, with the program commencing in early February at an annual cost of $780,000 to the city.
Business owner Pierre Castonguay expressed relief at the prospect of having a dedicated contact for emergencies at his uptown store, The Nest Yoga. Castonguay and his partner have encountered criminal incidents since opening their shop in 2023, leading them to invest significantly in additional security measures. The business community’s persistent advocacy for crime solutions prompted city police to initiate quick-response foot patrols earlier this year.
Despite a decrease in incidents, Castonguay recently experienced vandalism at his store, emphasizing the ongoing challenges. The introduction of security guards has been welcomed by Nancy Tissington, executive director of Uptown Saint John, who highlighted the support they offer to businesses hesitant to involve the police.
The effectiveness of the program will be evaluated over time, especially in light of the city’s rising crime severity index. Criminology professor Michael Boudreau cautioned that while private security can offer reassurance, its success in Saint John will hinge on careful monitoring and accountability mechanisms. The city has assured that guards will prioritize de-escalation and avoid physical intervention whenever possible.
Additionally, the city has launched a $250,000 fund to assist impacted businesses with security-related expenses and repairs. This financial support, along with the security program, forms part of the city’s 2026 budget allocation.