The Town of Peace River was asked in March for additional funding for a full-time employee for the town’s Royal Canadian Mounted Police station.
The Town’s Government of Canada Municipal Police Services Agreement establishes 12 full-time equivalent officer positions, including the Community Liaison Officer, a position that is shared with Northern Sunrise County.
The Town only pays for positions that are actively filled. For the last two years, the Town has been paying for 10 positions as two positions were not filled with active officers.
In March, council received notification from the detachment staff sergeant there is an officer returning to work and filling one of the two vacant positions, requiring approval from council to increase its forecasted budget of 10 full time equivalents (FTEs) to add an additional position. Council would need to increase its budget for RCMP contracted services by $182,000.
“Public safety is a top priority in council’s strategic plan,” says Peace River Mayor Shelly Shannon.
“We are committed to restoring a strong sense of safety and security in our community, and increasing front-line presence is a key part of that commitment.”
Council has directed its administration to allocate funding for an additional FTE position, taking money from full-time equivalent town positions that are currently vacant. Shannon says any remaining costs will be covered through the operational reserve.
“We’ve seen positive outcomes from the collaboration between the RCMP and our Community Peace Officer (CPO) program,” explains Shannon.
“Building on that success, council believes that strengthening our RCMP complement will further enhance protective services in Peace River and ensure we are providing the highest level of service possible to residents.”
Shannon says looking toward the 2027 draft budget, the funds for the FTE officer position will be incorporated as part of the regular financial planning process.
“An additional officer means increased coverage and a stronger, more consistent police presence in the community,” explains Shannon.
“This enhances response times and contributes to overall public safety. It will make a significant difference to proactive policing.”
Shannon explains one of the two vacant RCMP positions has been a soft vacancy since November 2023, as it was filled by a member who was off on extended medical leave. The Town was not billed for the position during that time.
“The second position reflects how resources are sometimes reallocated within the RCMP for operational needs,” adds Shannon.
“In this case, an Indigenous policing position was temporarily reassigned to front-line duties to ensure adequate coverage.”
Shannon explains with the approved increase to 11 FTEs, Peace River will now be able to add an additional front-line officer while also ensuring both the provincial and Indigenous policing positions are fully staffed.
“Combined with our CPO program and a fully staffed RCMP detachment, residents can feel confident that Peace River is well-supported and protected,” concludes Shannon.
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter