West Grey to Consider Collaborating with Owen Sound for Policing Services
The town of West Grey is currently exploring the possibility of forming a policing partnership with the nearby city of Owen Sound. This decision comes after the recent announcement by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) that they will be terminating their contract with West Grey for policing services.
The town’s council held a meeting on Tuesday to discuss the potential partnership with Owen Sound. Mayor Christine Robinson stated that the council is considering all options to ensure the safety and security of the community.
The proposed partnership would involve Owen Sound providing policing services to West Grey, with the town paying a fee for these services. This would allow West Grey to continue receiving professional and reliable policing services without having to go through the process of finding a new provider.
According to Mayor Robinson, the partnership would also bring potential cost savings for West Grey. She explained that the town currently pays approximately $2.5 million annually for policing services, and the partnership with Owen Sound could potentially reduce this cost.
The decision to explore a partnership with Owen Sound comes after the OPP announced that they will be terminating their contract with West Grey in 2021. The OPP cited a lack of resources and increasing costs as the reasons for their decision.
The council has also considered the option of creating its own police force, but this would require a significant investment of time and resources. Collaborating with Owen Sound, on the other hand, would provide a more efficient and timely solution.
The council will continue to gather information and consult with the community before making a final decision on the partnership. Mayor Robinson emphasized that the safety and well-being of West Grey residents is the top priority in this process.
The potential partnership with Owen Sound is a promising solution for West Grey to continue receiving quality policing services. The council will carefully consider all factors before making a decision that best serves the community.
