The City of Saint John is rolling out a new two-pronged strategy to enhance public safety and support local businesses. A new Community Safety and Security (CSS) Team will soon patrol key areas, while a Community Resilience Fund is now open to help businesses manage the impacts of crime.

A New Non-Police Presence

As part of a two-year pilot program, the city is launching a Community Safety and Security (CSS) Team. This team will provide a visible, non-police presence in Waterloo Village, the Uptown, and around local shelters, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Their main role is to address non-emergency concerns through voluntary compliance, de-escalation, and education, ensuring public spaces remain welcoming for everyone. According to the City’s official announcement, the team will only involve police, outreach, or EMS when absolutely necessary.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to building safer, more inclusive public spaces,” said Mayor Donna Noade Reardon. “The CSS Team will provide a consistent presence in areas most affected by disorder, while working respectfully with vulnerable populations.”

Team members will receive specialized training in Narcan administration, mental health awareness, and trauma-informed practices. Saint John Police Force Chief Robert M. Bruce clarified their role, stating, “The Community Safety and Security Team are not police officers and will not engage in law enforcement duties. We all share a collective responsibility in keeping our community, safe, secure, and healthy.”

You can expect to see the CSS Team on the streets starting in early February 2026.

Financial Support for Local Businesses

Alongside the new safety team, the City has opened the Community Resilience Fund. This fund is designed to provide financial aid to small businesses and non-profit organizations dealing with the costs of crime and public disorder.

Eligible applicants can receive grants to help cover expenses for property damage, security enhancements, and other resilience-building projects.

How the Fund Works

• Individual Grants: Small businesses and non-profits can apply for up to $7,500 per year.
• Collective Grants: The Uptown Saint John Business Improvement Association or groups of four or more businesses can apply for up to $25,000 for collaborative projects.
• Cost-Sharing: The grants cover 50 percent of eligible costs for small businesses and up to 75 percent for non-profit organizations.

Applications will be accepted twice a year. The first round is now open, with a deadline of March 31, 2026. This round covers eligible expenses incurred between September 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026.

“The newly created Community Safety and Security Team, in conjunction with this Community Resilience Fund, represents a meaningful step forward for our city,” said Nancy Tissington, Executive Director of Uptown Saint John Inc. “We applaud the City of Saint John for working collaboratively with community leaders to make this grant a reality.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the CSS Team members police officers?

No, they are a civilian, non-police presence. They are not authorized to perform law enforcement duties but will work to de-escalate situations and connect with police or other services when needed.

When will the CSS Team begin its work?

The CSS Team is scheduled to begin patrols in early February 2026.

Who is eligible for the Community Resilience Fund?

Registered small businesses, non-profit organizations, commercial property owners leasing to small businesses, and the Uptown Saint John Business Improvement Association can apply. Priority is given to applicants in Waterloo Village, Rothesay Avenue, Thorne Avenue, and Uptown Saint John.

What is the deadline for the first round of funding?

The deadline to apply for the first round of the Community Resilience Fund is March 31, 2026.