The Acting Police Chief in Owen Sound says a savings in the police budget will not impact service.
Bill Sornberger presented a budget decrease of 2.55 per cent last week — and it surprised Council — they were hoping costs would stay the same.
It represents savings of more than 166 thousand dollars — even though they factor in a wage increase for officers and staff.
Police also cut their capital budget by 25 per cent – they’re seeking 150 thousand dollars instead of 200 thousand.
Sornberger says this process began with former Chief Tom Kaye and examined every possible place where savings could be achieved.
The police have been the target of criticism from some in the community because their budget is the highest in the city and a huge chunk of it is due to wages and benefits.
This surprising news helped the City achieve a budget with an average tax hike of 3.1 per cent.
The budget will be presented to the public at a council meeting on April 18th.
