Hamilton Police are looking for a budget increase in 2023 of 6.7 percent amounting to $12.3 million, bringing the proposed policer budget to $196 Million. The biggest chunk of the increase related to employees, either in the form of negotiated raises or staff increases. In accompanying documents the service is proposing to add 13 sworn officers in 2023 and 18 civilian workers. The addition of 13 sworn officers is part of a plan introduced this year, that aims to have the police-to-population ratio maintained at 146 officers per 100,000 population as the city grows. The budget ask notes that at 146 offers per 100,000 Hamilton is still below the provincial and national rates of 183 and 176 respectively.
The 18 additional civilian positions break down as follows:
Ward Two Councillor Cameron Kroetsch, who is also a member of the Police Services Board has tweeted that he will oppose the increase saying. “ think there’s more the Hamilton Police can do to reduce and improve on its budget. The Police Services Board will meet Thursday to consider the budget.
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