City Hall

Budget Talks Heat Up Over Police Funding

Heated debates unfolded at City Hall as councillors clashed over proposed increases to the police department’s annual budget. Community groups protested outside.

By Feather Sand Chronicles Editorial Team | April 25, 2025 at 10:41

Tensions ran high inside Toronto City Hall as budget deliberations centered on a proposed $48 million increase to the police department’s annual funding. The debate, which stretched into the evening, drew passionate arguments from both city councillors and community advocates demanding accountability and alternatives to traditional policing.

Supporters of the increase, including members of the city’s executive committee, argued that rising gun violence and public safety concerns warranted a stronger investment in police services. 'Our residents are worried,' said Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie. 'We need to ensure they feel safe in their communities, and that requires resources.'

However, critics said the proposed funding boost ignores longstanding calls to redirect funds toward social services, mental health support, and housing. 'This isn’t safety—it’s a missed opportunity,' said Councillor Alejandra Bravo. 'We should be investing in prevention, not just enforcement.'

Outside City Hall, dozens of demonstrators gathered, holding signs and chanting slogans that echoed throughout the downtown core. Protesters, including members of advocacy groups like Black Lives Matter Toronto, demanded transparency and warned against increasing police presence in marginalized neighborhoods.

During the session, several councillors proposed amendments to reallocate portions of the police budget toward community-led safety programs. These proposals sparked heated exchanges, with some accusing others of being anti-police and dismissive of residents' safety needs.

Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw addressed the council via video call, stating that the increase would support recruitment, training, and new technology initiatives. He insisted the funding was necessary to improve response times and reduce backlogs on investigations.

Public speakers, many of whom signed up earlier in the week, voiced diverse opinions. While some praised officers for their role in crime reduction, others recounted personal experiences with over-policing and urged the city to take a more holistic approach to community safety.

The final vote on the budget is expected next week, with further debate and possible amendments likely. Meanwhile, advocacy groups plan to maintain pressure with additional demonstrations and public education campaigns aimed at reshaping how the city defines safety.

The issue continues to highlight deep divisions over policing and fiscal priorities in Canada’s largest city. As the city moves closer to finalizing the budget, both sides are bracing for a decision that could shape Toronto’s public safety framework for years to come.