Cobourg Police Union defends VandeGraafs budget, but condemns Cleveland for turning it political

Photo by Cecilia Nasmith, Northumberland 89.7 FM News.

By: Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM News, Local Journalism Initiative.

The president of Cobourg’s Police Association is slamming Mayor Lucas Cleveland for politicizing the proposed police budget.

Police Chief Paul VandeGraaf, is lobbying for a 20.5 percent increase stating on multiple occasions that there is no discretionary spending in the 2026 police budget.

He said policing is much more complex, requiring more resources to adequately investigate crimes.

Now, Police Association head Rich Furguson is defending VandeGraaf’s budget.

“The mayor’s continued public opposition risks oversimplifying a multifaceted issue and misinforming the community about what is at stake. Public safety budgets should never be used as political leverage. When critical operational needs are framed as optional or discretionary, it erodes public trust and compromises the police service’s ability to meet the needs of the community,” Furguson said in a statement.

On Monday, Cleveland released his Mayor’s budget, giving the police a 6.31 percent increase. He previously attempted to cap that increase at four percent through a Strong Mayor Powers directive.

Earlier this month, VandeGraaf addressed Cobourg Council explaining that approximately 81 percent of the police budget goes to staff wages and benefits, while 11 percent goes to court administration and security.

He noted that these expenditures are legislatively mandated through the Community Safety and Policing Act.

“Chief VandeGraaf has presented a realistic and responsible budget that reflects both the complexities of contemporary policing and the needs of Cobourg residents. The Cobourg Police Association fully supports this plan because we see firsthand the pressures our members face each day. We also understand the risks to officer wellness, investigative integrity, and ultimately public safety when adequate resources are not provided,” said Ferguson.

“Cobourg deserves a principled, informed discussion about policing, not political posturing. The safety of our residents is not a talking point. It requires sustained, thoughtful investment in our community and in the people who protect it. Public safety is not negotiable. It is the foundation of Cobourg’s wellbeing, growth, and quality of life. Our members remain deeply committed to this community, and we ask that municipal leaders demonstrate the same commitment by supporting the resources required to keep Cobourg safe.”

Cobourg Council will debate Cleveland’s budget on Monday morning. If the Police and Council cannot agree on a budget, it will go to either conciliation or arbitration for a decision.