The Town has just implemented a new initiative primarily aimed at young people

They could be in for a surprise

Instead of handing out speeding tickets this summer, some Ponoka residents might receive something unexpected from the local community peace officer.  According to the manager of protective services, Stuart Larson, the town has started something this summer called the Positive Ticketing Program.

"The Positive Ticketing Program is essentially a program that recognizes people for positive or community minded behavior when nobody's looking. So we're looking for people that actually do what's right all the time," said Larson.

Instead of the community peace officer stopping people for violating a law, they could be stopped for something such as wearing a helmet while out riding a bike.

"We'll issue you a citation for positive behavior and what that'll include is a small reward".

Larson recently went on a ride-along with the peace officer to see what kind of reaction residents had to the Positive Ticketing Program.

"We saw a couple of kids and their mom going for a little bike ride, they got pulled over and at first they were concerned like, what did we do? They said no, we wanted to let you guys know that you're doing everything you're supposed to and you know what, here's a little something to make your day brighter."

That "little something" could be coupons to McDonald's or passes to the Aquaplex.  They're just two of the sponsors signed up to support the program. Larson said they welcome more local businesses to get involved as sponsors.

"It's a new program. We're really trying to get it rolling."