Waterloo Regional Police Service’s (WRPS) 2026 budget has been greenlit for final approval by the regional council. The proposed budget of $272.6 million, approved during a Police Service Board meeting, marks a $20 million increase from the previous year. The budget presentation to regional councillors is scheduled for Nov. 26.
The main factors impacting the budget include cost-of-living adjustments for officers’ pay and benefits, as well as investments in software, training, artificial intelligence, and fleet maintenance. Additionally, the need to establish a road safety team and increase courthouse officers is driven by a directive from Ontario’s Solicitor General to enhance courtroom security.
In 2026, the police aim to recruit 20 sworn officers for frontline patrol and investigative services. According to recommendations from Operational Research in Health (ORH), a consulting group from the U.K. collaborating with WRPS, an additional 73 front line patrol officers should be hired over the next five years to address service demands and reduce overtime. ORH advises recruiting nine officers in 2026, followed by 16 officers annually until 2030, with the initial nine officers being part of the 20 new sworn officers sought in 2026.
Chief Mark Crowell emphasized the necessity of increased officers to meet the service demand arising from a growing community, underpinned by a data-driven approach. He highlighted the importance of adapting to community growth, emerging technologies, and serving neighboring areas. Addressing concerns regarding affordability and cost of living, Crowell emphasized the service’s commitment to meeting public safety expectations in line with the region’s growth trajectory.
The regional budget is slated for final approval on Dec. 20, with opportunities for public input on Nov. 18 and Dec. 3.