The District of Port Hardy will be moving ahead with 'Broken Window' theory recommendations.
According to the theory, maintaining and monitoring urban environments prevents small crimes such as vandalism and public drinking, and helps to create an atmosphere of order and lawfulness, thereby preventing more serious crimes from happening.
"It just makes perfect sense," said Mayor Hank Bood, in an interview. "We've got a number of properties, and property owners, that make it easier for people to leave garbage around and party in different places," Bood said.
"We're going to solve at least part of the problem if we follow through and do some of the things that the Broken Window theory recommends," he said.
At their regular meeting Nov. 24, council approved enforcing its bylaw regarding vacant properties, specifically the old bank building on Granville Street.
A notice will be sent to the property owner stating that the building must be secured, that any accumulated garbage needs to be removed, and steps taken to ensure it doesn't happen again.
If the property owner fails to do so, the district may take care of the matter at the owner's expense which will be added to the taxes for the property.
The district will also be sending out letters regarding unsightly premises which are properties that have an accumulation of rubbish and litter and are generally untidy.
In addition to copies of the bylaw, the letters will include a notice about crime prevention and that areas be maintained to discourage drinking in public and loitering.