The Barrie Police Service is hosting the first of two town hall meetings in Barrie, Ontario, tonight, March 17, 2026, to discuss the role of technology and artificial intelligence in local law enforcement. The “Community Conversation Series” sessions are being held at the downtown library to give residents and business owners a chance to talk directly with police about how these advancements will impact neighborhood safety and crime prevention.
This series follows the “City Guardian” pilot program in the downtown area, which aimed to lower crime and improve public safety perception. While police reported to the Barrie Police Services Board that the initiative was successful, many residents continue to voice concerns regarding property crime, including theft, break-ins, and vandalism.
The town hall sessions—the second of which is scheduled for March 31—are meant to help police bridge the gap between official data and the daily experiences of people living and working downtown. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from experts, discuss new ways to prevent crime, and share feedback on the strategies police use to keep local streets secure.
By meeting at the library, police hope to hear from those most affected by recent crime trends. The goal of the event is to ensure that future policing plans, including the use of new technology, reflect the specific needs and values of the local community.
