Sign up: Demand Accountability for the Toronto Police Budget
The Toronto Police Services Board is voting on the 2025 Police Budget on December 12, and you have a chance to make your voice heard. Sign up with Progress Toronto and we will help you register to speak, draft a speech, and support you every step of the way!
This is your opportunity to call for a 0% budget increase and push the board to demand efficiencies from the already massive police budget. Let’s urge them to invest in alternative safety measures that strengthen our communities instead of overspending on policing. (Scroll down to learn more details).
Progress Toronto is helping people speak at the police board! Sign up with us and we will support you by:
Hosting an online prep session on Tuesday, December 10 at 6pm
Providing personalized feedback and sharing resources
Attending the Police Board meeting with you on December 12
Why does this matter?
Police are one of the biggest items in our city budget: Last year, the police were able to pressure elected officials to give them an increase to their $1.2 billion budget. Now the Police are asking for a $46.2 million increase for 2025. Too much of our money is going to the police with no accountability.
Police spending is out of control: Reports show that overtime costs have nearly tripled in the past year. Officers are reportedly charging four hours of overtime for 10-minute phone calls, draining resources with no oversight.
Better alternatives exist: Instead of pouring more money into policing, the City can prioritize solutions that tackle the root causes of crime, like mental health supports, affordable housing, and investing more in the existing Toronto Community Crisis Service.
How do I sign up to speak?
Register to speak by submitting a Request to Make a Deputation form by Wednesday, December 11 at 12pm. Learn more and register here: https://tpsb.ca/meetings/making-a-deputation.
We are speaking on Agenda Item 4 - 2025 Budget Requests.
You should sign up as early as possible to confirm your spot and get a chance to speak earlier.
Where can I speak?
The Toronto Police Services Board holds deputations online, over the phone, or in-person at TPS Headquarters on 40 College St. We strongly encourage people to speak in person if you are able. We will have Progress Toronto staff and experienced volunteers present. You will not be there alone.
Toronto Police Services Headquarters
40 College St (map)
Near College Station
When will I speak?
In general, meetings begin at 9 am and run for 4-6 hours. The length of the meeting will depend on how many people sign up to speak. You will not know an exact time you are speaking. A speaker’s list may be released before the meeting.
If you have any other questions please reach out to volunteer@progresstoronto.ca.