Dear Editor,
As the past Chair of the North Grenville Police Services Board, I am writing regarding the policing needs of the proposed Eastern Ontario Correctional Complex (EOCC) and my ongoing concerns regarding the resultant property tax increases should this facility be built.
Prison communities in Ontario have historically been responsible for covering all policing costs associated with the provincial correctional facilities in their jurisdictions. Unless there is a reversal of this long standing provincial policy, the taxpayers in North Grenville will be on the hook for the policing costs of the Kemptville correctional facility.
Mayor Peckford’s news release, issued on December 10, 2021, is confirmation that she understands that the problem exists. Unfortunately, based on what has recently happened in Penetanguishene and other prison communities, her assumption that North Grenville will be an exception to this policy is simply a fantasy. A fantasy that in the end will cost the taxpayers of North Grenville a significant sum of money. Further, after reading her news release, I certainly question the province’s commitment to pay all crucial costs associated with the proposed Kemptville prison.
Don Sherritt
Past Chair, North Grenville Police Services Board
