2026 Budget Infograph-V2

Hamilton Police Service (HPS) presented its proposed 2026 Operating and Capital Budget, outlining a strategic plan that responds to increasing service demands, prioritizes community safety, and aligns with the legislated mandate of the Community Safety and Policing Act (CSPA).

The proposed 2026 net budget is $239 million, representing a 6.81% increase over 2025. This budget supports the delivery of essential policing services in a growing and increasingly complex city, while responding to the Mayor’s direction for financial stewardship and improved efficiencies.

Hamilton continues to experience significant increases in call volumes and growing pressures related to mental health, homelessness, and social disorder.

• Total calls have increased 30.3% over five years, with more than 415,000 calls received in 2025.
• 911 calls have risen 26.6% in the same period, while non-emergency calls are up 34.5%.
• Approximately 41.4% of public-generated calls now relate to complex social issues, including mental health, addictions, and housing instability.

The recent Laurier Community Safety Survey results collected from more than 1,200 residents highlight concerns around social disorder, open drug use, property crime, and road safety—factors that heavily influence residents’ sense of safety and well-being.

Key Investments

Intimate Partner Violence Unit (IPV)

In response to the City of Hamilton’s 2023 declaration of intimate partner violence as an epidemic, HPS is proposing the creation of a specialized IPV Unit.

This trauma-informed, victim-centred unit will focus on enhanced support for victims, increased offender management and improved court outcomes. The 21-member IPV Unit (20 detectives, 1 civilian) will ensure dedicated expertise to address an average of 6,522 occurrences annually over the past five years

Core Patrol Model Expansion

Building on the successful 2023 launch, the 2026 budget proposes expanding Core Patrol to Divisions 20 and 30. This proactive policing model is designed to reduce crime, enhance community engagement, and increase visible officer presence. Data from the existing Core Patrol area demonstrates measurable reductions in both calls for service and reported crime.

The budget also accounts for inflationary and contractual obligations, including collective agreements, WSIB, utilities, and building maintenance, as well as the training and recruitment strategies required to maintain authorized strength.

“Our budget reflects the investments required to maintain public safety, deliver adequate and effective service, support our members, and respond to the growing complex needs of our community,” says Chief Frank Bergen.

The 2026 Hamilton Police Service budget will now move forward to the City of Hamilton General Issues Committee (GIC) on January 27, 2026. The line by line budget is available on the Hamilton Police Service Board website.