A few thoughts:
I believe that a visible police presence acts as a deterrent. The policeman or policewoman just has to walk up and down and this will discourage certain minor crimes.
If people are worried about the costs of policing, have the bars and clubs in the local area pay for it. Charging their patrons an additional dollar per head would probably pay for the policing and not add significantly to the cost of a night out.
Does Hamilton have anything like
Community Support Officers?