Peterborough Police Develop Next Three-Year Strategic Plan

Consultants Michael Mitchel and Maurice Hodgson introduced themselves to Council members at the January 16th meeting and explained their role in preparing the next Business plan for the Peterborough Police Service, a task they have performed for Peterborough and other forces many times.

The preparation of a plan is regulatory requirement for all Ontario Police forces every three years. The objective is to provide local Police Boards with tools to monitor, manage and improve their civilian oversight role. It is conducted by external agents who liaise with the community providing a mechanism through which the public can provide input and commentary regarding the service they receive from their local police force.

The broad research for this project was conducted during the summer of 2015, prior to the contracting of the Peterborough Police Services with the township, when a general survey was completed as well as extensive consultation with community groups and representatives. The plan has been delayed while further consultation occurs with specific stakeholders in Cavan Monaghan such as educators and social service organizations who have regular interaction with the Peterborough Police Services to provide a complete picture of the areas they serve.

The fundamental objective of business plans is to ensure that police services throughout the Province of Ontario maintain a level of police service to their communities that, at the very least, meets the minimum criteria established in the Police Services Act. The performance of the Peterborough Police Service exceeds all of the legislative requirements, so the objective of this plan is to provide strategic direction regarding the effective use of resources to ensure they continue to deliver a service that exceeds expectations.

In addition to providing a mechanism for the public to provide feedback about their local police service, the process examines specific operational statistics and performance criteria to find ways to improve service delivery. Trends in areas such as road safety, crime rates and locations, calls for service volumes, victim support and crime prevention are examined to identify the changing requirements in the communities they serve. Understanding trends also allows better resource allocation decisions, including optimal staffing and training needs, establishing specialized units to address a growing concern, as well as the use of technology. As the name suggests, the business plan must also balance the public and police desire for more extensive service delivery with the municipal concern over cost.

The exercise of seeking community input could be particularly important for Lakefield and Cavan Monaghan, which receive police services through a contract. According to the Chair of the Business Plan Steering Committee Ken East, current legislation does not provide for public representation on the Police Services Board for municipalities receiving services through contracts. This means those communities are not represented in the mechanism that provides independent public oversight to their local police forces. East should know, as he also serves as President of the Ontario Association of Police Services Board. This legislative glitch means that Mayor McFadden attends Peterborough Police Board meetings as a guest only.   Practically speaking, McFadden believes the board is receptive to his input, as they should be. Their contract will be up for renewal in a few years.

While they are not seeking general input from Cavan Monaghan residents about the service they receive from the Peterborough Police force, the consultants welcome any specific suggestions for improving police interaction with the community as well as any public safety concerns. Comments can be directed via email to NPritchardPataki@peterborough.ca. The final report will be presented to Peterborough City Council in May. KG

Tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Comments are closed.