
THE ROLE OF COMMUNITY PEACE OFFICERS IN CHESTERMERE
“Our job is a blend of law enforcement and community service,” said Officer Blaine Austin, a Community Peace Officer (CPO) for Chestermere. They bridge the gap between municipal regulations and provincial statutes. “We’re somewhere in between,” said Officer Austin, highlighting their unique position on the law enforcement spectrum. “The CPO is provincially appointed to enforce a section of acts that’s given to us by the government.”
One of the pivotal roles of peace officers lies in traffic safety. “Traffic safety is huge,” said Officer Austin. CPOs conduct proactive traffic enforcement, pulling over drivers who violate traffic laws to ensure compliance and road safety. They diligently monitor roads, identifying safety concerns and addressing them promptly to uphold public safety standards on Chestermere’s bustling streets. A peace officer’s job can be best described as preventative policing. “But there’s always going to be that part of the job where it’s reactive,” said Officer Austin.
After leaving college with aspirations of becoming a commercial pilot, Officer Austin faced financial constraints that redirected his career path. Opting for a security guard position at a local hospital, he found himself working closely with peace officers, sparking an interest in their profession.
Transitioning into the role, he joined Alberta Health Services as a peace officer, dedicating a decade to various roles across different regions. Eventually, drawn to municipal law enforcement, he made the shift to become a CPO in Chestermere. Unlike traditional police officers, CPOs focus on preventive measures and community relations, fostering a safer environment through collaboration and proactive initiatives.

This may involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and collaborating with other law enforcement agencies or relevant authorities as needed.
“We work very closely with the RCMP,” Officer Austin stated, highlighting the seamless coordination and mutual support between the two law enforcement entities. From sharing vital intelligence to providing backup during high-risk situations, the collaboration between Chestermere’s CPOs and the RCMP ensures a unified front in tackling crime and maintaining public safety. “We are always calling each other for help.”
Moreover, peace officers prioritize public safety concerns and complaints directly related to public safety, addressing emergencies, and enforcing laws that directly impact residents and their quality of life. “Anything concerning public safety trumps everything else,” said Officer Austin.
“Sometimes it’s not just about enforcement; it’s about being there for someone on their worst day,” said Officer Austin.
But their responsibilities extend beyond traditional policing. Community Peace officers are the guardians of community, acting as a harmonious blend of law enforcement and public service. From delivering anti-bullying presentations at local schools to collaborating and actively engaging in community outreach initiatives, “We’re always looking at new initiatives on how we can make Chestermere safer,” said Officer Austin.
To contact the Peace Officers regarding any concerns, you can email them at enforcement@chestermere.ca, or call (403) 207-7058. Please provide detailed information, including dates, times, and your full contact details for a timely response. Remember, complaints are addressed based on priority, and anonymous complaints cannot be responded to.