Whereas the current funding model for RCMP services results in an immense financial burden for small municipalities when their population grows above 5,000; And whereas a large proportion of RCMP time and budget goes to policing provincial highways that either run through or beside small communities: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM request that the provincial government develop a more transitional funding model for RCMP services for small communities that would see incremental adjustments as a community grows beyond 5,000 and then beyond 10,000 and finally over 15,000 residents; And be it further resolved that UBCM be involved in the development of the policy.
Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General Government is aware of, and addressing concerns from, municipalities with respect to the significant cost difference for residents moving from the Police Tax to full municipal responsibility for policing costs when their census population exceeds 5,000 persons. Currently, ministry staff proactively monitor annual population estimates, in the years prior to a Canada Census, with the aim of identifying municipalities with potential to approach or cross this threshold years in advance. Staff engage with these municipalities to share information and to encourage their proactive planning and setting aside of funds for the eventual assumption of responsibility for policing. For municipalities which have emerged since the 2016 census, the ministry has assisted municipalities in their transition to assuming full policing responsibilities by adopting a phased-in resources for their respective new RCMP Municipal Police Units. On April 28, 2022, the Special Committee on Reforming the Police Act released its report and recommendations, including reviewing the funding model, considering local needs, health and social supports, and geography of the service delivery area. One of the recommendations in the Special Committees report is to explore options to phase in or incrementally increase the municipal share of policing costs. The ministry has carefully reviewed and analyzed the report and will take a phased approach in responding to the recommendations and will also undertake broader engagement to meaningfully address the Special Committees recommendations. Beginning in May 2022, the ministrys Policing and Security Branch and UBCM have been co-chairing the Local Government Policing Modernization Roundtable. This forum analyzes and discusses the report recommendations that impact local governments. The branch will continue to meet regularly with the roundtable. Extensive consultation with stakeholders, including municipalities through UBCM, will be essential when contemplating any policy or legislative reform.