Calgary Police Budget: Transparency Battle Heats Up

CALGARY — The Calgary Police Service (CPS) budget has become a focal point of civic debate, raising concerns about transparency and financial accountability. While the proposed net operating budget for CPS in 2026 has been adjusted to $613 million, this figure represents a significant increase from the 2025 approved budget of approximately $541 million. This rise challenges earlier narratives regarding stable spending and highlights the financial pressures facing the service.

The Deeper Context

The controversy surrounding the CPS budget underscores a broader discussion about how public funds are allocated in Calgary. Detailed documents, such as the 2025 Annual Policing Plan and the 2024 Annual Report, provide insights into CPS operations, yet some Calgarians argue these do not offer enough granular detail. Historically, the city has faced challenges balancing transparency with concise financial reporting. The CPS has also attempted to innovate funding models, such as redirecting funds to the Community Safety Investment Framework. This initiative allows partner organizations, including Alberta Health Services and Alpha House, to manage non-police crisis work. This shift aims to alleviate pressures on the police budget by offloading social disorder calls to appropriate agencies, though overall police spending continues to climb.

The Critics & Costs

Critics argue that the allocation of CPS resources may not align with public expectations, particularly regarding future hiring. While there was public confusion regarding immediate recruitment targets, the Calgary Police Commission clarified in late 2025 that the service is not hiring 660 officers by 2026; rather, that figure represents the estimated need for the 2027–2030 budget cycle. For 2026, funding primarily covers roughly 21 previously approved positions.

Financial strain was further exacerbated in 2025 when the city faced a $28 million shortfall due to changes in provincial photo radar guidelines. This gap was covered by the city’s Fiscal Stability Reserve rather than an operating budget reduction. The debate over police funding intensified in November 2025, when CPS presented a net budget adjustment of $59 million to address this revenue gap, along with inflationary pressures and population growth. While security costs for the 2025 G7 Summit were federally funded and did not impact the municipal tax base, the ongoing requests for municipal increases have drawn sharp scrutiny from taxpayers and council members alike.

Looking Forward

Calgary's city council and CPS must navigate these financial complexities while ensuring public trust. With the 2027–2030 budget cycle approaching, the debate over the proposed 660-officer expansion will likely dominate future council meetings. Clear communication regarding how these funds are utilized—and whether they result in tangible public safety improvements—will be critical in shaping the public's acceptance of the city's financial strategies.