Manitoba municipalities seek greater role in RCMP contract talks as policing costs rise

Manitoba municipalities using RCMP services are seeking more involvement in contract negotiations with the national police force. The current contract expires in March, following significant salary increases for RCMP officers in recent years. Municipalities like Steinbach, which pays 90% of RCMP costs, argue they need a voice in negotiations to better manage their budgets. The Association of Manitoba Municipalities supports this call, highlighting a 40% increase in contract costs from 2020 to 2023. Local leaders express concerns over rising policing costs impacting their budgets. They emphasize the need for a sustainable funding approach that includes municipal input in the negotiation process.