City Hires Manager of Community Safety

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

Port Alberni, BC – The City of Port Alberni is pleased to announce the hiring of Chris Baker as the new Manager of Community Safety.

Mr. Baker joins the City with extensive knowledge in bylaw compliance and enhancing community safety through collaboration and team work.  Most recently, Mr. Baker worked as the Bylaw and Animal Control Supervisor for the municipality of Squamish, where he specialized in supporting Bylaw and regulations compliance, administration, and other related operations while collaborating with the local District, Fire Department and Police services. Before that, Mr. Baker has held various operations positions, including civilian contractor with the Canadian Forces involving peace-keeping missions in an international work environment.

“I am very pleased that Chris Baker is joining the City team and our community,” said Twyla Slonski, City of Port Alberni’s Director of Corporate Services. “The importance of community safety and bylaw services has been increasing as communities across Canada face ongoing challenges related to crime, addiction, and mental health. As the City’s Manager of Community Safety, Chris will play an integral role in proactively supporting, directing and coordinating both bylaw services and community policing, while working in conjunction with partnering agencies to make Port Alberni a healthy and safe community,” concluded Ms. Slonski.

In this new role, Mr. Baker will be responsible for providing leadership to and overseeing the City’s Bylaw department, Community Policing, as well as collaborating with other related agencies with a focus on fostering positive dialogue, community engagement, crime reduction and proactive, compassionate compliance. Mr. Baker will also play an integral role in the renovations and opening of the City’s Community Safety Centre in the Uptown District.

“As someone with a passion for living and serving in smaller cities, I have a strong sense of community and a deep appreciation for the connections between the municipal team and residents,” said Chris Baker. “I am delighted to bring my passion for bylaw compliance and leadership to Port Alberni. I feel enthusiastic about contributing to the community’s safety.”

Mr. Baker will assume his new role on June 7, 2021.

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For More Information

Twyla Slonski, Director of Corporate Services

City of Port Alberni

250.720.2823

twyla_slonski@portalberni.ca