Halifax residents speak against budget increase for police they say ‘failed’ them
The discussion around this year’s municipal police and RCMP budgets in Halifax has sparked a wave of opposition from the majority of residents who spoke out against any increases. During a virtual meeting of the board of police commissioners, nearly 30 individuals voiced their concerns and made it clear that they have lost trust in the forces and believe that the funds could be better spent elsewhere.
Natasha Hines, the board chair of Wellness Within, a non-profit organization advocating for reproductive justice and prison abolition, highlighted the lack of positive outcomes despite continued increases in police funding. She emphasized the need for a shift in allocating funds towards community support rather than investing in law enforcement.
City library worker Paxton Romana shared their perspective, suggesting that the budget should prioritize areas like transit and support for the homeless population. Romana recounted instances where families felt unsafe in the presence of police officers, emphasizing the need for alternative approaches to addressing social issues.
Many speakers referenced reports such as the Mass Casualty Commission and the city’s report on defunding the police to underscore the importance of redirecting funds to community services. They argued that police were not equipped to handle mental health calls or support individuals experiencing homelessness effectively.
Carrie Low, who previously criticized Halifax Regional Police for mishandling her sexual assault case, urged the police board to reject any budget increases. Low questioned the decision to cut funding for the HRP’s sexual assault investigative unit and expressed disappointment in the board’s apparent bias towards law enforcement.
The discussion also touched on the proposal for an armoured police vehicle, with several residents questioning its necessity and suggesting that resources should be focused on supporting vulnerable populations. Retired HRP officer Charles Naugle defended the need for the vehicle in high-risk situations to ensure the safety of both officers and the public.
While a few individuals called for additional traffic resources, the overwhelming sentiment was against increasing police budgets and instead reallocating funds to community-based initiatives. The police board will consider these perspectives before making a decision on the budgets, which will ultimately be presented to Halifax regional council for final approval as part of the overall city budget process.
