Yellowknife (Nov 22/06) - Council members batted around ideas on how best to create a committee to tackle Yellowknife's drug problems last week.

With RCMP Insp. Roch Fortin in attendance, the majority of city councillors liked the idea of having the committee fall under the Yellowknife Area Policing Advisory Committee (YAPAC).

This group, made up of volunteers who help set priorities for police, was created on March 14 by the city.

One of its first acts was to create a subcommittee to investigate the feasibility of establishing a drug-free zone in Yellowknife.

"We would like to begin with a pilot project around Ecole St. Patrick and Ecole Sir John Franklin for the 2006-07 school year," the subcommittee concluded.

drug-free zones have been popping up in many North American cities during the past 10 years.

The idea is to pick a site - usually close to a school - and declare it drug-free.

Police then develop a stronger presence in the area. Drug users and dealers are warned to stay away by a series of signs.

Fortin said he likes the idea of having the advisory committee in charge of the drug-free zone initiative.

"I think it's awesome," he said. "We want to work closer with YAPAC."

Several council members also supported the concept.

"I like that it will be one less committee for council," said Coun. Mark Heyck.

Coun. David Wind was also a supporter and reasoned it would simplify the process.

Once the Yellowknife drug-free zone is officially chosen, a public information session will be held. All residents in the area would also be canvassed for their thoughts and pamphlets are expected to be distributed on the matter.