Hamilton police services budget

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The Hamilton police services 2016 budget has been given the stamp of approval by city council and while they asked for an increase in their budget again this year the mayor called it a “maintenance budget” compared to what they’ve seen in previous years.

It’s the smallest budget increase request in 17 years. Hamilton police have crunched the numbers and say they need $153 million to operate this year, that’s up $4 million from last year.

In his presentation to council, acting chief Eric Girt said the crime rate in Hamilton is down but the population is growing and the city is expanding which means police are covering more ground.

This year’s budget includes hiring 7 and a half new employees. 3 in the community mobilization branch, 1 each in crimes against seniors and victims services and the remaining in the police service internal wellness unit.