Estevan is set to receive a significant boost in public safety funding, with $467,000 allocated from the Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Municipal Police Grants program for the 2024-25 fiscal year. This announcement comes on the heels of an additional $357,000 recently earmarked for hiring three new frontline officers for the Estevan Police Service.
“The Estevan Police Service operates around the clock to investigate criminal activities and proactively address issues related to crime and victimization within our community,” Estevan Police Chief Jamie Blunden said. “Ongoing support from the province, through grant funding, helps to maintain several key positions within the Estevan Police Service. These roles are vital in fostering a safer environment for the citizens of Estevan. The province's dedication to public safety and wellbeing through this grant is essential for the continued effectiveness of our police service and the welfare of our community.”
The grant will fund four existing police officer positions within the Estevan Police Service’s Combined Traffic Services Saskatchewan (CTSS), Organized/Serious Crime, Enhanced Community Policing, and Police and Crisis Team (PACT) initiatives.
The Municipal Police Grants program supports enhanced community policing initiatives throughout Estevan.
The CTSS program aims to reduce collisions and fatalities on the roads across the province. It is delivered in partnership with Saskatchewan Government Insurance, which is contributing $180,000 toward one CTSS officer, bringing the combined contribution to $646,800, along with five officers for the City of Weyburn.
The Organized/Serious Crimes Task Force conducts comprehensive investigations of individuals involved in organized criminal activities.
The Enhanced Community Policing Program provides resources to effectively address community-based policing programs, while PACT dedicates officers and mental health workers to provide an immediate and coordinated response to individuals experiencing mental health and addictions crises.
“This funding supports the Estevan Police Service's ability to respond to the needs of the community,” Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Paul Merriman said. “We are pleased to maintain this support for these specialized policing teams in the City of Estevan; without it, these targeted initiatives would not be possible.”