Kelowna RCMP expanding Community Liaison Officer program to downtown

The City of Kelowna and Kelowna RCMP are expanding their Community Liaison Officer program into the downtown core, following what officials say is strong uptake and positive results in Rutland.

The move is aimed at increasing police visibility, improving response connections and strengthening relationships between officers, businesses and residents in high-activity areas.

City officials say the decision directly responds to feedback from businesses gathered during a Community Safety Forum earlier this year, where participants identified a need for more consistent patrols, faster response times and a dedicated RCMP business liaison downtown.

Mayor Tom Dyas says the expansion is a direct response to what residents and businesses have been asking for. “This role is about building trust, strengthening relationships and working together to address concerns in a proactive, community focused way,” Dyas said.

The Community Liaison Officer model was first introduced in Rutland in 2025, where officials say it has helped improve coordination and support more proactive policing.

As part of the expansion, RCMP Cpl. Michael Gauthier will transition from Rutland to take on the downtown role, while Cpl. Aaron Labrum will assume duties in Rutland. A transition period is expected this fall as both officers move into their new areas.

Kelowna RCMP Supt. Chris Goebel says the positions allow officers to spend more time working directly with the community. “We have seen positive results in Rutland and are pleased to expand this model into downtown Kelowna,” Goebel said.

The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce says it welcomes the change, calling the role an important link between businesses, police and the city.