TIMMINS - The municipal policing budget is going up 9.6 per cent next year.
The Timmins Police Services board approved the hike at its meeting today. Members will be at Tuesday's Timmins council meeting to present the document.
The 2025 police budget net cost is $20.4 million, which is $1.79 million more than this year. It includes a 2.9 per cent ($515,619) increase in operation costs and a 6.7 per cent ($1.28 million) increase in capital.
The budget shows the service's "unwavering commitment" to ensure members have the tools, technology and training required, said chief Syndey Lecky in a news release.
“From providing our officers with mobile data terminals and in-car cameras to enhancing our fleet for increased community visibility, and ensuring compliance with the new Community Safety and Policing Act, we are setting the foundation for success in the years to come," he said.
New positions in finance, administration and IT are part of the approved budget. The roles will be phased in throughout the year.
There are also new marked cruisers in the plans for next year, as well as continuing to add mobile data terminals and in-car cameras to front-line vehicles.
"This budget reflects the importance of investing in the full spectrum of our police service — both front-line officers and our civilian support team. By focusing on training, technology, and operational investments, we are ensuring the Timmins Police Service is well-equipped to meet the growing demands of our community while upholding the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and service," said Kraymr Grenke, board chair, in the news release.
Read the Timmins Police presentation to council here.
The Timmins council meeting starts at 6 p.m. on Dec. 10. The police budget is the first presentation on the agenda. Watch the meeting live online here.
