Cobourg chief gives context to debate over possible police mergers

On April 1, the new Community Safety and Policing Act came into effect. It was a long time coming. The changes in the rules and regulations related to policing underwent a major restructuring. It sent shockwaves through the province, motivating the need for rethink local policing. Cobourg and Port Hope are in the midst of adjusting to the new system. A significant aspect is the ability to collaborate between forces to meet the demands of the new Act. Port Hope is currently talking with Kawartha Lakes and Peterborough about working together. Nothing is final. Cobourg council wants to look at a merger involving Port Hope and, possibly, Hamilton Township. These collaborations already take place, but they are less formal. Under the new rules and regulations, these must become official service agreements or, if you like, contracts. This interview with Cobourg Police Chief Paul VandeGraaf was conducted in April, just after the new Act was released. It will give you some context to better understand what is happening now.