Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), John Henry, has responded to criticisms (see below) levelled by Oshawa Ward 5 and Regional Councillor Brian Nicholson, saying the police plan has not been endorsed by the Regional Council.
The Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) has submitted a 10-year plan whose capital outlay alone is forecast at $1.1 billion. This was alleged to have a 10 per cent impact on property taxes by Nicholson.
“The DRPS Service and Financing Strategy was reviewed by the Finance and Administration Committee on May 12, with a recommendation to receive it for information only, not for council endorsement,” Henry told Durham Post.
Police Budget Independent of DRPS Strategy
He pointed out that all regional spending priorities are set through the annual budget process. Police funding is driven by the annual funding request submitted by the Police Service Board. “Council endorsement of this strategy would not change that request or the final police budget.”
Henry said referring the strategy to next year’s budget process ensures that the incoming Regional Council elected in October 2026, together with the new [appointed] Regional Chair, can consider it alongside all other funding pressures.
“Police funding needs are substantial. At the same time, council must balance those needs with investments in transit, housing, homelessness, and social services. That is leadership,” the Regional Chair pointed out.
They should be ashamed stealing the waterfront for the rich. No seniors dogs or kids. Ajax politicians should all be fired. All the area is changing to theft models because of the selfish childish politicians. I won’t vote for them.