The feud between town council and the Cobourg Police Services Board over a 20.5 percent increase in its 2026 budget inched forward this week as a request was made for a presentation to politicians in open and closed sessions.
Mayor Lucas Cleveland set a four percent target for the police service budget using his strong mayor powers. However, the police services board approved a 20.5 percent increase. (See interview). The police budget was brought before council and immediately sent back for review.
A presentation from Ontario’s Inspectorate of Policing outlined the steps available to the police services board, adding the police budget is not subject to the strong mayor powers.
Chief Paul VandeGraaf reviewed the budget, saying there was little point in discussing it again, as it had already been approved after a lengthy process.
The police board was given three options. It could seek a provincially appointed conciliations officer, or it can be referred to arbitration. The board also has the option to return to council without a conciliator and continue discussions.
The board unanimously decided to return to council for further discussion.
In Their Words is a feature that allows people to listen to what is going on at the various councils within Northumberland. No spin. No opinions. No one is telling you what to think. Just what was said.
It is a chance you might not have otherwise to hear directly from your elected representatives. I hope you find it useful and
Listen to the whole debate between the chief and board members. (37:00 mins)
Listen to the chief present the budget to board members (3:00 mins)
Listen to the chief present options to board (3:00 mins)
informative.
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