Owen Sound police seek 7.23% budget rise to add officers amid rising demands and high clearance rates.

The Owen Sound police board proposed a 7.23% budget increase, surpassing Mayor Ian Boddy’s 5.5% cap, citing rising costs, new provincial mandates, and increased reporting demands. The rise would fund one additional officer per platoon—the first front-line staffing boost in over ten years—amid doubled calls for service and criminal charges. Police Chief Craig Ambrose said the increase is the minimum needed to maintain staffing and improve downtown visibility. Staffing makes up 87% of the budget, limiting cutback options. The city’s officers have the highest clearance rates among similar communities. A special council meeting will address the budget, with presentations from city leadership.