The Heritage Lake community post boxes will have a new look after a string of break-ins prompted Canada Post to install more robust units intended to provide higher security.
In November, Division 6 Councillor and Heritage Lake resident Don Waldorf said he began receiving numerous inquiries from residents about finding their mailboxes pried open.
"I was getting lots of phone calls," he said, adding that he directed individuals to contact the local RCMP detachment as well as Canada Post.
Waldorf, who previously worked for the community's homeowners' association, said there have been break-ins over the years, but nothing of this scale.
Around the same time, he said the Heritage Pointe Golf Club had a few similar incidents, as did Artesia.
He relayed the impression of Canada Post and Okotoks RCMP was that the perpetrators were looking for materials to assist in identity theft.
It is also possible the thieves got away with some packages, given the proximity to the holiday season, Waldorf said.
A letter from Canada Post was sent to area residents on Dec. 1 stating a new model of community mailboxes were set to replace the current setup.
"This change will better serve our customers with their mail and parcel delivery needs," the letter read in part.
Notable features of the new mailboxes include wide individual compartments, heavy duty locks, large parcel compartments, high-grade aluminium constructions, an outgoing mail slot and a sturdy base, all "designed for superior security and safety" according to Canada Post.
"Because it's happened previously and because of the number, I think that's why Canada Post agreed to these new, higher-security post boxes," said Waldorf.
Residents have been told to await a February notice which will provide information on picking up new keys, as current keys will not work on the new unit. Canada Post has said mail will be delivered to the old community mailbox up and until the installation of the new one.
Cpl. Tammy Keibel with the Alberta RCMP said an investigation was launched into the theft, though no witnesses or suspects were identified.
If an individual is a victim of mail theft, Keibel suggests they check bank statements frequently and even complete a credit check to ensure that sensitive information was not breached.
Anyone who suspects they have been a victim of identity theft should report the incident to RCMP and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
