Meeting on Thursday, the police services board in Sault Ste. Marie approved a tentative budget of $47,339,954, up 7.71 per cent compared to 2026. That could still be adjusted pending the finalization of salaries, the board was told. The budget includes three more officers for downtown, bringing the total to 17 frontline officers for the downtown division. It also includes four officers for the service’s marine unit, something mandated by the province. The main cost increases include increased vehicle expenses, training and IT services. The 7.71 per cent increase compares to the 10.64 per cent hike last year. Board chair Nuala Kenny called progress made to reduce the budget increase “outstanding” and “unbelievable.” “I couldn’t be more delighted,” Nuala said. Police will have funding for 173 officers, board members were told. The police budget has made headlines in recent years, as policing costs have soared across the province. In addition to the 10.64 per cent increase last year, police reported a $2.9 million deficit in 2024 and $1.9 million in 2025.
