West Perth Council voted Monday night to renew their contract with the OPP.
June Demerling, the chair of the West Perth Police Services Board, says having the OPP in the community is a plus for everyone.
"Grant programs, as well as the OPP being visible in the community. The bike rodeo for the kids, they assisted in the 15oth celebration at no cost," says Demerling. "They have been a part of our community, and we want to keep them there."
The new deal is a four-year contract, so that it expires in the midst of the next council's term, rather than during election time or one year into a new council.
Demerling says under the new deal, the cost per property will be reduced from previous years.
"Three years ago, the cost per property was $442.81," she says. "Starting next year it will go down to $421.12."
Demerling says that doesn't mean a reduction in services, as the OPP have found more efficiencies in the way they deliver services. She also notes it's extremely costly to let go of the services and then try to regain them later.
