Some local business owners are calling for a larger police presence in downtown St. Catharines.
Barry Fader who owns the Tim Hortons at King and James telling St. Catharines councillors last night that he is seeing a dramatic rise of 'emotionally disturbed people' loitering in the store and worries for the safety of his staff.
Fader says his head office is very concerned and is looking at closure at some point, which he has been fighting.
He adds business is down, complaints are at an all time high, and staff are scared.
Fader acknowledges police are doing 'an awesome job' but says he wants to see more downtown patrols.
Police officials say staff are doing the best they can, but resources dictate how often they can deploy officers for foot patrol.
Council received the report as information.