Despite a Superior Court of Justice Divisional Court ruling that appears to clear the path to West Nipissing losing its local service in favour of the OPP, Board Chair Barry Bertrand says the battle isn't finished yet.
On Wed. November 14, the Municipality received the decision from the court that the Police Services Board’s application for a judicial review was dismissed.
See: Police Service Board asks court to stop OPP takeover!
"OPP confirmed that intake and disbandment will take place in February 2019. The Municipality will continue its progress to support Council’s decision," says CAO Jay Barbeau on the town's website.
“On behalf of staff and Council we are very pleased that the decision was ruled in our favour. While we believe that this process was unfortunate and cost taxpayers unnecessary legal costs, the Superior Court’s dismissal confirms that our proceedings were appropriate. We look forward to continuing to work with all involved, to ensure a smooth and seamless transition for the benefit of our residents.”
See Barbeau's release: Superior Court dismisses Application from Police Services Board
But Police Services Board Chair Barry Bertrand says not so fast.
He told BayToday that the issue was discussed at a board meeting last night and it wasn't happy with Barbeau's release.
"They didn't disclose all the results from the judge's panel. The one important thing is there is still a 'stay.' They cannot proceed for another 30 days which gives us the opportunity, if the Board decides, to review the results of the court case itself. So the actual press release was a little misleading because at this point in time they cannot proceed with anything and we're disappointed they would get this out to the press without even giving us the opportunity to speak with our employees. It was not a very well received press release from the municipality."
Bertrand says if the municipality tried to proceed it will be in contempt of court.
"They cannot proceed with signing any contracts or purchasing, renovating or anything like that. Nothing has changed as far as that goes."
Meanwhile Mayor Joanne Savage says she is feeling bad for the way the police service employees have been treated.
"I'm frustrated with the level of sensitivity on how the affected employees and families were notified. Unfortunately, many of these people found out through social media. I think there should have been a personal notification that went out to these people before sharing the news with the public."
Savage intends to carefully review the court document to see if there are any questions or clarifications needed.
"There probably will be further discussions and questions based on the financial implications."
See: West Nipissing Police get breathing room in OPP takeover
She wants all information and documents shared in "an open and transparent process" so everyone is informed of all the facts.
"People either will, or won't like it, but we have to make sure we are cognitive of the approach, communication and the facts."
The West Nipissing Police Board is expected to issue its own news release later this morning.
