Information Session: April 9
Cote Saint-Luc – March 25, 2025 – The City of Cote Saint-Luc is seeking new recruits for its unique and active volunteer Citizens on Patrol (vCOP) program.
An information session will be held on Wednesday, April 9, at 7:00 PM at City Hall, 5801 Cavendish Blvd. Registration is required. Visit: CoteSaintLuc.org/vcop to register for the information session or to download the application form.
The program trains volunteers to patrol the streets of Cote Saint-Luc in marked vans, as well as on electric scooters, bicycles, and on foot. The volunteers notify local agencies about emergency and non-emergency situations.
“vCOP members are our community’s eyes and ears,” said Mayor Mitchell Brownstein. “They play an essential role in supporting our public safety initiatives, and their presence is felt at community events, during emergencies, and even in daily life. From assisting with major incidents to delivering books to those unable to leave their homes, they make a real difference.”
“We are constantly updating our surveillance and safety protocols based upon security issues in Cote Saint-Luc and beyond,” said vCOP founder and chairman, Glenn J. Nashen. “We need additional volunteers to help us watch over our community’s religious and educational institutions as well as civic facilities and parks. Our increased visibility and frequent monitoring throughout our city is a deterrent to crime that has proven effective with vCOP patrols. Please come and join us.”
vCOP has also added electric bikes to its patrol fleet, which enhances its ability to cover more ground. They’re also seeking sponsors to help update their equipment, uniforms, and vehicles.
Prospective volunteers do not need to be residents of Cote Saint-Luc, but they must be aged 18 or older. Members, many being retirees, patrol on three-hour shifts every week or two. Trainees will learn about first aid and bleeding control, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the use of automated external defibrillators, fire extinguishers, two-way radios, and patrol and surveillance techniques.
The City Councillor responsible for vCOP is Steven Erdelyi. vCOP is part of the Public Safety Department, which includes Public Security and the Dispatch Centre, led by Director Philip Chateauvert and Chiefs Jean-Marc Dubois, Anthony Tsakon and Coordinator Kia St-Pierre.
vCOP relies on volunteer leadership to steer the organization, and is grateful to supervisors Elaine Meunier, Susie Schwartz and Mitchell Herf. Fred Golt heads up fundraising and sponsorship. Glenn J. Nashen, the founder of the group, continues to serve as vCOP Chair.
For more information, to volunteer or to become a sponsor, visit CoteSaintLuc.org/vcop, call 514-485-6800 #5106, or send an e-mail to [email protected].
Additional Quotations
“vCOP volunteers work alongside public security, police, fire, and EMS services to strengthen Côte Saint-Luc’s comprehensive safety initiatives. Our program offers a remarkable way for citizens to contribute to their community, and the training and experiences they gain are invaluable.”
- Glenn J. Nashen, Chairman
“Our vCOP patrollers are instrumental in enhancing the safety of our city. Their presence at events and in emergency situations is crucial. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated and resourceful team in Côte Saint-Luc.”
- Councillor Steven Erdelyi, responsible for vCOP
Photo: Glenn J. Nashen and Mitchell Herf on bike patrol. Photo credit: Glenn J. Nashen
Photo: CSL vCOP van. Photo credit: Glenn J. Nashen.