Bracebridge OPP officers are set for new digs as the 67-year-old Cedar Lane detachment is scheduled for replacement.
That was just one of several updates delivered to Gravenhurst council by Insp. Wade Beebe, which also offered news on a new dedicated marine patrol, arrests in a string of Gravenhurst break-and-enters and a request for more security cameras.
Beebe told council the Bracebridge OPP will get a new detachment headquarters on the site of the existing one on Cedar Lane. The facility is set for construction in 2026 and will be two floors, with “robust” capabilities, said Beebee.
“Infrastructure-wise we’re struggling a little bit,” said Beebe. “This is very positive news for our members, especially ones who have been there for an extended period of time.”
They’ll need the extra space, as Beebe reports the Bracebridge detachment will add 12 new members by the fall bringing them up to 82 front-line members, the most in 25 years.
Beebe also reported this summer the detachment has begun employing a dedicated marine patrol for the first time. They force will also be focused this summer on increased foot and bicycle patrols.
The Inspector updated council on a rash of break-and-enters in Gravenhurst over the past month. Beebe said there had been nine break-and-enters reported in the first two weeks of June alone.
“I’m happy to say that the two people that committed the crimes are now in custody,” he said. “There was a lot of intelligence, covert operations, foot patrols…lots of people involved in apprehending these two gentlemen.”
To that end, Beebe had an ask of council.
Beebe requested the town help subsidize the cost of cameras for businesses.
“We can only do so much, the police need help from the community,” he said.
Council then passed a resolution directing staff to develop a campaign encouraging businesses to participate in the CAMSafe program. CAMSafe is a CCTV and security video registry which police officers can access to find footage of potential crimes.
Council also passed a resolution directing staff to develop a campaign encouraging businesses to participate in the CAMSafe program.
The resolution also directs an addition to the 2024 operating budget – up to $5,000 – to help offset camera costs for businesses. Funding will come from the Community Improvement Program Reserve Fund.
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