High-level representatives of the Belleville Police Service are issuing a public statement regarding the 2026 proposed police budget.
The BPS Board approved a budget at its meeting on Thursday that was worth more than $33.5 million, which would represent an increase of 15-per cent over last year, that will go to council for final approval.
Belleville Coun. Paul Carr had expressed concern about the increase, saying the police budget alone would have a tax increase impact of three-per cent on residents.
In a message to the community, BPS Chief Murray Rodd and Police Board chair Heather Smith say the proposed 2026 Operating Budget reflects the realities of modern policing and the growth of Belleville itself.
“Policing today is not the same as policing a decade ago. Calls for service are more complex, community expectations have increased, and provincial legislation requires specific standards for adequate and effective policing,” the statement read in part.
“As Belleville continues to grow, so does the demand for emergency response, neighbourhood patrols, investigations, technology, and officer training.”
They added residents, neighbourhood associations, and businesses have repeatedly expressed a desire for more police visibility and quicker response times.
Therefore, to meet those expectations, the service must maintain appropriate staffing levels, modern equipment, and mandated training that aligns with provincial standards.
Council will consider the police budget as part of operating budget discussions in February.
