Toronto Police Seek Urgent $93.8 Million Budget Boost for 2026

UPDATE: Toronto police have just announced a request for a staggering $93.8 million increase to their operating budget for 2026, marking a 7% surge from last year. This critical funding aims to cover a negotiated pay rise for officers and the hiring of 143 new officers to enhance public safety in a city with a burgeoning population.

If approved, the 2026 budget will reach $1.43 billion, with approximately $1 billion allocated for salaries alone. Earlier this year, the police union and board ratified a five-year contract, granting officers a near 18% raise. The budget includes $50.7 million to accommodate a 3.5% salary increase for the upcoming year and $20 million specifically for the new officer hires.

Mayor Olivia Chow has expressed support for the hiring plan, which was initially approved by the Toronto police board in 2024. The initiative aims to maintain a 1:100,000 officer-to-population ratio, crucial for a city that continues to grow. In addition to the new hires, another 221 officers are planned over the next three years.

Toronto’s police department is also expanding its community officer program to four new areas with 16 officers and increasing police presence along two sections of the Line 1 subway. Chow’s budget chief, Shelley Carroll, confirmed that the proposed increase aligns with the city’s directive for a “leaner” budget, aiming for lower property tax hikes than in previous years.

Chow stated, “I’ll let the police service board deal with it first,” emphasizing the importance of following the budget process without preempting discussions. This comes as she navigates her final budget before the upcoming municipal elections.

In a statement, Toronto Police Association president Clayton Campbell voiced strong support for the budget increase, describing it as essential for recruitment and retention of police staff. “It is our hope that city council will approve this budget as a positive step towards providing the consistent and sustainable funding needed to give our communities the police services they deserve,” he said.

Currently, a first-class Toronto police constable earns a base salary of $119,937, making them the highest paid in Ontario after recent contract negotiations. By the end of next year, this salary is projected to rise to $123,679.

The proposed budget also allocates $56.3 million for policing costs associated with the FIFA World Cup matches hosted in Toronto, with $43.9 million earmarked for salaries. These costs will be offset by city revenue.

Despite the proposed budget increase, crime statistics show a positive trend: as of October 31, homicides, shootings, hate crimes, robberies, and auto thefts have all decreased compared to last year. Traffic fatalities have also dropped by 11%. Carroll acknowledged the statistics but emphasized the need for proactive policing due to rising youth violence.

Furthermore, the police service is projected to exceed its budget for overtime and callbacks, which remains set at $69.8 million for 2026. The Toronto Police Service Board will convene for a budget meeting on December 8, 2025, where these crucial budget discussions will unfold.

As the city prepares for an important decision that may impact its safety and community policing strategies, all eyes are on the upcoming budget meeting and the implications of this substantial funding request.