Kelowna to study potential switch from RCMP to municipal policing – Okanagan [Video]

The City of Kelowna, B.C., is hiring a consultant to review the pros and cons of transitioning from the RCMP to a municipal police force.

“As Kelowna continues to grow rapidly, and with the RCMP policing contract for municipalities set to expire in 2032, this review is a responsible step to ensure we are delivering the best value to taxpayers and planning effectively for the future needs of our city,” said Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas.

The city has allocated $250,000 for a Police Services Model review that will begin this summer.

“Crime and safety remain top priorities for this council,” Dyas said. “We continue to have full confidence in, and deep respect for, the dedicated members of the RCMP who serve our community.”

The city’s policing costs have grown substantially in the last decade with the budget more than doubling to $57 million for 2025.

Kelowna RCMP would not comment on the study …