At the Tuesday, April 22 council meeting, Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry (SDG) Counties council discussed updating the region’s Community Safety Well-Being Plan (CSWP). The province of Ontario requires municipalities to update their CSWP annually to ensure that contemporary community safety needs are being met under the Community Safety and Policing Act.
Staff noted, “It is important for us to collaborate and work on this as a region. It will allow for better deliverable outcomes and participation.”
The updated CSWP will address a strategic approach to initiatives within the region, identifying early risk mitigation and being used as a proactive measure in crime prevention. Ultimately, the CSWP aims to improve the quality of life for residents and provide inclusive, equitable solutions to identifiable issues.
Staff suggested that since other municipalities with similar CSWPs have established an oversight committee, created various action tables with community partners, and utilized other municipal staff supports, SDG should follow suit.
Of these recommendations, staff explained that the CSWP should be transferred to the Human Services Department beginning in 2026, ensuring continued collaboration between the lower-tier municipalities and the City of Cornwall, and the hiring of a consultant to work with the administration in creating the revised CSWP.
Councillor Carma Williams asked staff if there was any funding to help with the plan’s implementation and was informed that internal resources, such as Human Services aiding support staff and the allocation of budgeted funds would be required.
Staff stated that no new staffing costs would be anticipated as one full-time staff member from the Human Services Department would be responsible for its oversight.
Additionally, the consultation fees would be covered by the Ontario Works Special Reserve Fund.
Councillor Williams then explained that she views implementing the plan as a potential challenge, especially with trying to “bring the lower tiers into this and to maintain consistent and ongoing communication, consultation, and transparency so that the needs and interests of the lower tiers are being met.”
Councillor Steve Densham agreed with Williams, saying that the plan needs to include a strong rural lens, as situations vary due to the rural aspects of the townships relative to Cornwall.
Councillor Bryan McGillis asked if there would be regular community feedback sessions: “Are there going to be opportunities for things like this?”
Staff replied that they intended to include this requirement in the updated CSWP.
Council unanimously endorsed staff’s recommendations to proceed with updating the CSWP, with a final version to return for council approval at a later date.
