JASON SETNYK
A review of the City of Cornwall’s 2026 budget shows no explicit reference to cuts to security at municipal recreation facilities, although the document does identify a reduction in contracted services spending, a category that could include third-party services such as security.
Chief Administrative Officer Tim Mills said the review of security services was part of broader efforts to manage rising costs while maintaining service levels. He noted that security at the Benson Centre, Aquatic Centre, and Cornwall Civic Complex represents a significant operating expense.
“One of the things we identified was security… we’re over $300,000 between the Benson Centre, the Aquatic Centre, and the Civic Complex,” Mills said.
Mills stressed that the review is focused on operational efficiency rather than reducing safety. He said security personnel are not the primary responders to serious incidents and that emergency services remain the key safety mechanism.
“If we identify something that’s a criminal offence or a safety concern, we’re going to call the police – that’s not the role of a security guard,” he said.
He added that security will continue to be present for major public events and that facilities will remain staffed.
“For major public events, we’re going to have security. Our facilities are staffed, and we’re going to ensure everyone’s safety.”
Mills said the City has a responsibility to examine efficiencies as financial pressures continue to grow.
“We owe it to the community to look at efficiencies… if things aren’t working, we have to address them.”
He also noted the City would revisit the approach if safety concerns emerge.
“If there are things we need to address or consider adding back, we will – we’re not going to sit idle.”
According to Mills, staff, supervisors, and program organizers share responsibility for monitoring activity, with emergency response handled by police or paramedics when required.
The 2026 budget included a 5.41% tax levy increase, and the long-term outlook suggests annual increases of about six per cent over the next decade without project phasing or cuts.
L’article City assures safety not compromised
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