Ponoka News Staff
After years without a community peace officer (CPO), the Town of Ponoka has stepped into the world of bylaw enforcement.
Sgt. Kyle Koller took on the role just over a week ago after the CPO program from the Town of Rimbey was transferred to Ponoka. The initial focus will be to educate residents on the town’s bylaws, states a March 22 Town of Ponoka press release.
“He’ll be out in the community talking to people and building greater awareness and understanding of town bylaws. Taking the time to educate residents about local bylaws generally leads to greater compliance and that ultimately improves the quality life we all enjoy in our community,” said Mayor Rick Bonnett in the release.
Over the next few months, Koller intends to meet with residents to answer their questions and to understand the needs of the community.
“To me, the CPO is such a big part of the community. We’re out there getting to know residents, letting them get to know us and helping them solve problems, whether it’s a barking dog or some other issue they’re concerned about,” said Koller in the release.
Not only will he be able to work with members of the community, but the position can support the RCMP by sharing important information and being in close contact with police. Koller said what he enjoys most about community policing is being able to serve residents and build positive relationships.
Koller has 20 years of law enforcement experience with his most recent posting in Rimbey. He grew up in Blackfalds and has experience as a Calgary police officer and as a sheriff with the Alberta Solicitor General in Red Deer.
Between the work and this three children, Koller and his wife keep busy supporting the fun activities for their children.
“I look forward to becoming part of the community here in Ponoka, and I encourage residents to come up and say ‘hello’ when they see me out and about,” he says.
Once the town’s CPO program is approved by the Solicitor General, the release states that the town intends to hire Koller as a town employee.