Ottawa police propose $13.4M spending increase for 2024

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has tabled a draft operating budget worth $372.4-million for 2024.

The proposed spending plan, which represents a $13.4-million increase over 2023, contains a 2.5 per cent tax increase.

That works to an approximate $17 increase on your tax bill, bringing the total for policing to $697 for the average urban household.

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The OPS says the draft document, which was tabled at a special meeting of the Ottawa Police Services Board (OPSB) Tuesday morning, focuses on new staffing, operation stability and delivering on the boards strategic priorities.

“This budget includes important investments in staffing, the development of a district policing model, more coordinated outreach strategies and follows the direction of the board on a tax levy,” said police chief Eric Stubbs. “The budget is directly aligned to the board’s new strategic plan (scheduled for approval in November) enhancing community safety, advancing and supporting a resilient, thriving membership, building trust through strong partnerships, and improving equity, diversity, and inclusion, while strengthening our commitment to human rights.”

The development of the draft budget was heavily guided by public feedback gathered through consultation over the summer.

The OPS says that feedback showed continued concerns about crime across the city and that customized approaches to policing are required in the urban, suburban and rural areas.

Members of the public also expressed a need for new approaches to policing in order to deal with social issues and key operational priorities — like traffic safety, violence against women, auto theft and gun violence.

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“This year’s budget cycle benefitted from the extensive consultations conducted to inform the board’s strategic plan,” said board chair Dr. Gail Beck. “But the consultation period isn’t over yet. We look forward to continuing to hear from the public about the 2024 Draft Budget.”

Draft 2024 budget highlights (from OPS):

Budget Financial Highlights (from OPS):

Efficiencies: (from OPS)

The OPS still wants to hear from local residents and businesses about their thoughts. You’re asked to please consider completing the 2024 Draft Budget questionnaire here.

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Also, public delegations and questions from city councillors are welcome at the finance and audit committee meeting starting at 9 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 17 via Zoom.

The draft budget will go before council for approval on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023.