The city of Saskatoon is taking a significant step toward enhancing safety on its public transit system. A proposed bylaw, set to be reviewed by a transportation committee on Tuesday, aims to give Saskatoon Transit and police officers greater authority to address problematic behavior on buses.
New Powers for Transit Officers
The report to the committee outlines a framework developed in collaboration with the Saskatoon Police Service and the transit union. This framework would allow officers to remove individuals engaging in unacceptable behavior, ban them from buses and transit property—either temporarily through police or permanently via Saskatoon Transit—and issue tickets for various offenses.
Specific Offenses and Fines
Under the bylaw, riders could be charged for being unreasonably loud, urinating or defecating on transit property, distracting a bus driver, or putting feet on seats. The term "unacceptable behavior" is intentionally broad, covering violations of provincial or federal law, city bylaws, or actions that threaten well-being, safety, health, comfort, or security.
A proposed fine of $50 applies to all transit-specific offenses. According to the report, this amount is on the lower end compared to other city fines, reflecting the relatively minor nature of these offenses and the primary focus on removal or denial of services rather than monetary penalties.
Background and Context
Safety concerns on Saskatoon Transit have been escalating, with incidents such as bear spray attacks occurring as recently as June 1. During budget deliberations in November, city council approved funding for police officers to patrol buses. The new bylaw is part of a broader effort to address these issues.
Community Response
Robert Clipperton from Bus Riders of Saskatoon expressed support for the initiative. "It's good to see some of these issues being addressed," he said. He noted that some proposals might surprise those unaware of the challenges on city buses, adding, "I would have wondered, 'gee, didn't we have all of these things in place already?'"
Clipperton acknowledged increased police presence but mentioned he has only seen officers once. He welcomed the graduated enforcement approach, including an education campaign before strict enforcement begins. However, he raised concerns about enforcement practicality, citing fare evasion and rules against sleeping on buses. "I talked to a nurse from Regina… she said she's been known to fall asleep on the bus after a late shift," he pointed out.
Next Steps
The transportation committee will consider the report on Tuesday. If approved, the bylaw will proceed to city council for final adoption. The city plans to implement an education campaign to inform riders about the new rules before enforcement begins.
