Sudbury Police Demand 10% Budget Increase Amid Drug Crisis

URGENT UPDATE: The Greater Sudbury police board is pushing for a 10% budget increase as the city grapples with rising drug-related issues and public safety concerns. During a city council meeting on November 1, 2023, board chair Gerry Lougheed outlined how over 90% of police funding goes toward personnel costs, emphasizing the need for adequate compensation for officers amid escalating demands.

The proposed budget increase is a significant part of a larger 5.7% tax hike for 2026. Lougheed highlighted that the recent homelessness strategy will necessitate increased police presence to ensure community safety. “The drug issues in our community are growing, and that’s kind of scary,” he stated, reflecting the urgency of the situation.

In response to these challenges, Sudbury police initiated a 30-day crackdown starting on November 1. This initiative includes heightened patrols in the downtown area and empowers officers to arrest individuals engaging in open drug use. This move aims to address community concerns about public safety and drug-related activities.

Chief Sara Cunningham reaffirmed the police’s commitment to swift response times, stating, “When they call, we will come.” She pointed to recent incidents that showcase the department’s readiness, including a rapid response to a situation involving gun seizures. “It’s just growing,” she added, emphasizing the complexity of policing in the face of increasing crime rates, including gang activity and child exploitation.

City councillor Mike Parent expressed constituents’ concerns regarding the perceived decrease in police visibility and service availability. “What do I share with them that they’re going to be receiving a service with these increases?” he questioned, highlighting the community’s demand for transparency and accountability.

The push for additional funding also comes in light of new provincial regulations banning automatic speed cameras previously used in the region. Lougheed warned that this will shift the responsibility to on-foot officers using radar guns, further straining resources.

As Sudbury prepares its budget for 2026, the implications of these developments are profound. Residents are urged to stay informed as decisions on police funding and community safety strategies are finalized in the upcoming weeks.

The situation in Sudbury is a microcosm of challenges faced by municipalities across Ontario as they seek to balance public safety with fiscal responsibility. With rising drug use and crime, the need for effective policing has never been more critical.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Greater Sudbury navigates its budgetary challenges amid a pressing community crisis.