10/14/2025
CSL volunteer Citizens on Patrol recruiting new members
Information Session: October 28, 2025
The City of Côte Saint-Luc is seeking new recruits for its unique and dynamic volunteer Citizens on Patrol (vCOP) program. An information session will be held on Tuesday, October 28, at 7:00 PM at City Hall, 5801 Cavendish Blvd. Registration is required. Visit CoteSaintLuc.org/vcop to register for the session and to download the application form.
The vCOP program trains volunteers to patrol the streets of Côte Saint-Luc in marked vans, as well as on electric scooters, bicycles, and on foot. Volunteers act as the community’s eyes and ears, alerting local authorities to 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 on security issues in Côte 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, civic facilities, and parks. Our increased visibility and frequent patrols serve as a proven deterrent to crime. Please come and join us.”
vCOP expanded its patrol fleet with the addition of electric bikes - one of which was purchased by the volunteers themselves - allowing volunteers to cover more ground and respond more quickly. The organization is also seeking donors to help purchase equipment, bikes, and vehicles.
Prospective volunteers do not need to be residents of Côte Saint-Luc but must be 18 years of age or older. Many volunteers are retirees who patrol on three-hour shifts every week or two. Training includes first aid and bleeding control, CPR, 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. The program is part of the Public Safety Department, which also 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 dedicated volunteer leadership and is grateful to supervisors Elaine Meunier, Susie Schwartz, and Mitchell Herf. Fred Golt leads fundraising and sponsorship efforts. Glenn J. Nashen, the program’s founder, continues to serve as Chair.
For more information, to volunteer, or to become a sponsor, visit CoteSaintLuc.org/vcop, call 514-485-6800 ext. 5106, or email vcop@CoteSaintLuc.org.
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“vCOP volunteers work alongside CSL Public Security, Service de police de la Ville de Montréal - SPVM, Montreal Fire Department, and Côte Saint-Luc EMS 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 and Founder
“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