Calgary's Mayor Jyoti Gondek and city councillors announced a proposed zero-tolerance policy for open-air drug use if they are re-elected. The plan includes a pilot project that would grant peace officers and transit police enhanced powers to enforce public safety. Offenders could also be redirected to a court diversion program that offers addiction support.

Many residents view this announcement as a long-overdue response to a pressing issue. The visible struggle with addiction in public spaces has become a significant urban challenge across Canadian cities. People using hard drugs openly on sidewalks, in parks, and at transit stations has led families to avoid downtown areas. Businesses are suffering as customers steer clear of streets perceived as unsafe, and transit ridership has declined.

The presence of public disorder undermines confidence in the safety and functionality of urban environments. For years, policymakers have approached this issue as a binary choice: enforce the law or show compassion. However, this perspective is misleading. Enforcing public safety standards is an act of compassion for both the public and those struggling with addiction. Allowing drug use in public spaces is seen as neglecting the problem.

The council's announcement reflects a growing recognition among voters that public drug use cannot be tolerated in shared spaces. It poses risks to everyone, including those battling addiction. A well-functioning city relies on public order. While enforcement alone is not a comprehensive solution, addiction is fundamentally a health issue that often requires treatment.

The proposal aims to expand access to detox beds, treatment centers, and recovery programs while imposing limits on public drug consumption. This approach aligns with the desires of many Canadians, as polling indicates that public safety, homelessness, and addiction are top concerns for urban voters. Citizens are increasingly frustrated with leaders who avoid addressing these issues directly.

Critics may argue that enforcement penalizes those with addiction. However, open-air drug use already imposes a burden on families, seniors, transit riders, and business owners, creating an environment where disorder is normalized. This situation fosters a two-tiered system that prioritizes the rights of the addicted over the rights of the general public, eroding trust in government and community.

The key question is not whether addiction should be treated with compassion, but whether that compassion includes allowing drug use in public spaces, particularly near children and commuters. The proposed path forward includes enforcing laws against public drug use, equipping police and peace officers with necessary tools, and significantly expanding treatment and recovery options.

The mayor is calling on other Canadian mayors to adopt similar policies to ban open-air drug use, establish clear boundaries, and restore civility in urban areas. This initiative transcends political ideologies and focuses on creating safe downtowns where families can thrive, businesses can succeed, and individuals struggling with addiction can find genuine opportunities for recovery. Residents are encouraged to pay attention to the commitments made during the municipal election and vote accordingly.