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Greater Napanee Council is moving ahead with safety upgrades for its bylaw officers following a report from Clerk Jessica Walters.
The 2025 budget includes funding for a new officer, with added costs for uniforms, training, equipment, and vehicle use. One major upgrade is a radio monitoring system that includes a panic button and timed check-ins. This system will help officers stay safe, especially when working alone in remote areas.
Kingston Fire Rescue has offered to add the service to its fire dispatch contract, with a free trial for the rest of 2025.
While the Town will pay for hardware and licensing, it expects to save $34,000 in wages due to hiring delays. The net cost of the upgrades is $13,255.
The savings will also help buy protective gear for officers working near encampments.
Written by Emily Chatwood