The often elusive nature of successful crime-fighting and prevention is such that the debates over what the most effective methods are tend to obscure the actual reason these debates exist in the first place.

In other words, the symptoms of the problem tend to get more effort and attention than the problem itself - not necessarily a good thing.

Which is why, last week, it was interesting and potentially heartening to hear that a group of west-end city councillors have agreed to band together in the interest of cleaning up their respective neighbourhoods that attract criminal activity.

Such initiatives aren't necessarily new, of course, but the announcement of a West-Toronto Crime Task Force, announced last week at the meeting of Etobicoke-York community council, is certainly noteworthy. Under the proposal, the task force will operate under a specific bylaw, which staff will present at the October meeting of the community council. So far it will include five wards: Ward 7 (York West), Ward 11 (York South-Weston), Ward 12 (York South-Weston), Ward 13 (Parkdale-High Park) and Ward 17 (Davenport), all united in tackling a local problem on a regional basis.

Simply put, it makes better sense to do it that way.

Ward 7 Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti, who will co-chair the task force, has raised eyebrows with his controversial efforts within his ward, including sending letters to accused criminals demanding they leave the area. Any number of reasonable questions about those methods can be raised. After all, merely pushing a problem elsewhere, while of noticeable benefit where the problem once existed, has questionable long-term benefits. There's also the element of due process that needs to be considered in those cases.

That said, a more encompassing, unified approach from a broader base of elected and law enforcement officials - as well as the community at large - is a significant improvement and has a greater probability for success due to a number of reasons.

First, solutions don't necessarily have to deal with any logistical issues concerning ward boundaries. In fact, a group is now unified with a common goal and can focus on the issue with a more far-sighted perspective. In addition, it could also mean a more effective utilization of taxpayer-funded resources in the areas of enforcement and prevention. Lastly, should initial efforts prove demonstrably successful, it could provide a blueprint for other areas of the city.

There's a lot of potential. And while much work needs to be done, it appears to be a solid starting point.

Better co-ordination, better communication, better co-operation.

Those are all certainly more laudable and reachable goals and make for a more promising plan with a better chance of success.