Sigh of relief? Province to help cover OPP costs

More than $77m poured into the plan

The Ontario government has announced a plan to provide over $77 million in financial relief to small and rural municipalities facing higher Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) costs. The funding aims to offset expenses linked to the recent OPP collective bargaining agreement reached in July 2024.

This is great news for communities like Greater Napanee, who saw a staggering 23% increase bringing the total to $5,041,653, up from $4,113,260. Elsewhere Loyalist Township received a 21% increase.

Under the proposal, municipalities will see:

A 3.75% reduction in 2023 total reconciled policing costs,
A 44% reduction in 2023 reconciled overtime costs, and
A 10% cut on 2025 invoiced policing costs.
Solicitor General Michael Kerzner said the initiative will help communities balance budgets while maintaining public safety.

The government will also continue its $125 million annual funding for court security and prisoner transportation in 2025.

Ontario plans to review the OPP billing model to ensure it meets the needs of communities. This effort reflects the province’s commitment to supporting local leaders and ensuring police services remain strong.