MISSISSAUGA, ON – The Peel Police Services Board has approved an $837.3 million operating budget for 2026, representing a 9.9 per cent increase over the previous year. The 2026 budget aims to strengthen public safety, expand frontline capacity, and enhance community policing across Brampton and Mississauga in response to population growth and rising service demands.
The new budget supports the hiring of 175 additional police officers and 25 civilian staff members, including specialists in digital forensics, cybercrime, and crime analytics, as part of the service’s ongoing modernization plan. The investment continues Peel Regional Police’s multi-year strategy to hire 600 new officers over three years, ensuring faster response times, greater community visibility, and improved crime prevention capabilities.
“This region is not the way it was ten years ago,” said Chief Nishan Duraiappah. “People need to see us on the streets, and we need to be able to respond to what causes the greatest harm in our community. These additional officers and civilian staff will help us continue building a safer, stronger Peel Region.”
Balancing Public Safety with Fiscal Responsibility
Board members emphasized that the budget reflects both the growing needs of the community and a commitment to fiscal accountability.
Councillor Matt Mahoney, member of the Peel Police Services Board, said the board worked carefully to balance responsible spending with the need to maintain high-quality policing services.
“It is our responsibility to ensure Peel Regional Police has the resources required to deliver effective and accountable policing while exercising strong oversight and fiscal discipline,” said Mahoney.
Deputy Chief Lauren Jackson noted that approximately 40 per cent of the total increase, or $30.3 million, will go directly toward staffing to address operational pressures and community demand.
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown, who also sits on the board, commended Peel Regional Police for presenting a thoughtful plan that balances safety with affordability.
“This budget finds the right balance between meeting public safety needs and recognizing that residents are navigating affordability challenges,” said Mayor Brown.
Community Concerns and Differing Perspectives
Some residents and community representatives expressed concern about the impact of consecutive budget increases on taxpayers.
Sue Shanly, Chair of the Mississauga Residents’ Associations Network (MIRANET), called for greater transparency and a review of long-term spending.
“We’re struggling,” she told the board. “The financial impact of these back-to-back increases is being felt by homeowners, especially seniors. We need accountability and efficiency.”
Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish also voiced reservations, urging the region to find a balance between public safety and affordability.
“At a time when households are facing severe financial pressure, the region must balance critical safety needs with reasonable affordability for taxpayers,” said Mayor Parrish.
Conversely, Councillor Martin Reid expressed support for the proposed increase, calling it a forward-looking investment.
“Peel Police is already showing strong results — faster response times, visible presence, and lower crime in key categories. This budget protects the progress we’ve made,” said Reid.
Next Steps
The 2026 Peel Regional Police Budget will now proceed to Peel Regional Council for final approval on November 20, 2025. If approved, the plan will continue to advance Peel’s commitment to community safety, operational excellence, and modernization while supporting the region’s fast-growing population.