Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish has stepped down from her role on the Peel Police Service Board, citing her responsibility to safeguard the financial interests of Mississauga residents amidst escalating costs.
In a statement released late Friday night on her social media account, Parrish announced her immediate resignation, stating, “We are in very difficult times with housing costs escalating, an unprecedented food insecurity crisis that sees one in 13 of our residents forced to use food banks, and seniors struggling to stay in their homes as property taxes rise.”
The decision comes as the Peel Police Service Board proposed a significant 21.3% increase in its annual budget, which contributes to a projected 5.5% property tax hike for Mississauga and Brampton residents in 2025. Of this increase, the Peel Regional Police budget accounts for 4.1%.
“I Cannot Wear Two Hats,” Parrish Says
Parrish explained that her dual responsibilities as mayor and a member of the police board created conflicting priorities. “My responsibility as mayor is to all the citizens of Mississauga, including preparing budgets at both the city and regional levels and being constantly aware of the impact those budgets will have on taxes,” she said.
She emphasized her focus on addressing critical issues such as housing affordability, food insecurity, and support for seniors. “In light of the required compliance with PPSB decisions, including supporting a budget increase of 21.3 per cent this year, I have chosen to resign my seat on the Peel Police Service Board to concentrate fully on the needs of the people of our fine city.”
Police Staffing Crisis Highlighted
The Peel Police Service Board’s budget deliberations have been driven by urgent calls from Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah, who described a “crisis” in front-line policing for Mississauga and Brampton. According to Duraiappah, the force requires 600 additional officers immediately to adequately meet service demands. While acknowledging this need, the board is planning to add 300 officers by 2025 and consider further staffing increases in subsequent years.
Prior to her resignation, Parrish had advocated for better police services in underserved areas, specifically proposing a police sub-station in Malton. Peel police Deputy Chief Marc Andrews confirmed that a smaller facility staffed with 30 to 40 officers for rapid deployment in Malton is under consideration.
Recent Leadership at Peel Police Board
Parrish joined the Peel Police Service Board earlier this year following her election as mayor in a byelection to succeed Bonnie Crombie, who stepped down to lead the Ontario Liberal Party. Other board members include Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown, Peel Region Chair Nando Iannicca, and several provincial appointees.
Her resignation underscores the challenge of balancing public safety investments with the financial realities faced by residents during challenging economic times.