North Battleford Mayor Ian Hamilton is calling on the province to allocate more funds towards the City's new HUB program.
The HUB is a crime prevention initiative established last year that brings together several local agencies including the RCMP, the City, school divisions, social services and Prairie North Health Region.
Saskatchewan's Minister of Corrections and Policing Christine Tell was in North Battleford Monday to voice her recognition for the HUB's efforts. The HUB brings together those agencies to help at-risk individuals and families from falling victim to crime and to promote and build a safer community.
No new funding announcement was made during her visit, however. That prompted a City Hall news release Monday where Hamilton called upon the province to provide funding for full-time staff for the HUB.
In speaking to reporters at City Hall, Hamilton confirmed he had met with the provincial minister and had made the request for funding.
"I did ask for assistance," said Hamilton.
The mayor told reporters he wanted to see some assistance to "be able to access possibly a full-time co-ordinator" for the HUB. He believes a full-time staff person is needed for the HUB to be able to meet its objectives.
Right now, City Manager Jim Toye chairs the HUB committee that meets twice a week, but Hamilton noted those involved on the committee are working on a volunteer and part-time basis.
"It's been operating for eight months already, but every participant at the table does so above their regular jobs."
As for Tell's immediate response Monday, Hamilton said "she kindly heard us and said 'build a business case and then we'll talk.'"
