Police Budget Deficit Likely

Sarnia's police chief says for the first time during his nine year tenure they could start 2016 with a deficit. Phil Nelson says a perfect storm of what he calls "unpredictables" has led to a tough year financially for the force. A 4.69 percent increase to next year's budget, an additional $1-million, is proposed to help cover increasing costs. Police Chief Nelson says several factors have played a role this year including two homicide investigations, overtime and 11 officers going on sick leave or disability. Chief Nelson also says a $100,000 cut they took in this year's budget has put a strain on finances. A 2016 budget of $24.6-million is proposed.