Policing service delivery project
After going to the public for feedback in 2022, Council heard from residents that they wanted the Township to explore different models of policing for two reasons: first, to seek a cost reduction in order to get Esquimalt’s costs in line with comparable municipalities, and secondly to support a review of policing governance and service delivery in Esquimalt.
Project status
- The policing project as been ongoing with a focus on research and information-gathering in order to fully understand the complex considerations when changing policing models. Staff continues to support Council's exploration of a new policing model based on the establishment of an Esquimalt Police Department supported by specialized services provided by neighbouring police agencies.
- Read the January 13 2025 Council staff report that analyses the project status to date and presents council with options on next steps
At the February 27, 2024 Special Committee of the Whole, council voted unanimously for staff to continue to explore an Esquimalt Police Department with contracted out specific services similar to other regional municipal community policing models.
Esquimalt Division of Victoria Police Department (VicPD)
On January 1, 2003 Esquimalt and Victoria amalgamated police services into a single police department. The Esquimalt Division of VicPD, along with VicPD's K9 Unit, is located on the ground floor of the Township of Esquimalt's Municipal Hall. The division consists of an inspector in charge and 24 sworn officers which includes two community resource officers supervised by a sergeant.
- VicPD website
- REPORT: Police Act Section 42 Review Budget Allocation Formula For Policing In The City Of Victoria And The Township Of Esquimalt
- REPORT: Police Act Section 42 Phase II Review: Analysis Of “Framework Agreement” Issues Regarding Policing In The City Of Victoria And The Township Of Esquimalt
- Crime reports
- More about municipal policing in B.C.
Policing Framework Agreement
Effective January 1, 2003 an Order in Council amalgamated the police forces of Victoria and Esquimalt. This existing Order in Council also includes provisions for the negotiation of a cost sharing formula for the amalgamated department.
In April 2014 the Township signed a Policing Framework Agreement with the City of Victoria and the Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board. Under the Agreement, all parties are to work collaboratively to ensure adequate and effective policing for each municipality, fair and equitable allocation of police resources, and input into the development of the annual policing budget. Currently, Esquimalt’s share of the total police budget is 13.67%.
In August 2022, Council resolved to opt out of the Framework Agreement. In partnership with the City of Victoria and the Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board, the Township agreed to a limited extension to the Framework Agreement, which is active until end of 2025 with an option to extend for another year.
Community Policing Updates
- July 15, 2024— 2025 VicPD Budget Consultation - Elizabeth Cull, Finance Committee Chair, Victoria & Esquimalt Police Board