Region of Waterloo councillors have approved the 2023 operating budget, a total of $1.9 billion. That includes $214 million for the Waterloo Regional Police Service, despite lengthy debates over whether cuts could be made.
Regional councillors were split evenly in a vote on whether to send the police budget back to the Waterloo Regional Police Services Board Wednesday night. The tie vote meant the motion failed and the budget will not be sent back to the board to review and make cuts.
The regional administration and finance committee approved a motion Tuesday, which would make it necessary for the Waterloo Regional Police Services (WRPS) board to consult with council and the public before approving its annual budget.
The African, Caribbean and Black Network of Waterloo Region is calling on regional councillors to reject a proposed police budget increase. The Waterloo Regional Police Service board is expected to meet Wednesday to pass the 2023 operating budget. It will then go to regional council for approval.