The Edmonton Police Commission and city council are in the midst of a dispute over transparency and accountability. In December, councillors requested an audit plan from the commission to outline which parts of the Edmonton Police Service are being audited and to provide insight into policing priorities. However, in April, the commission refused to provide this information to council, stating that the internal audit plan of the EPS is the responsibility of the commission and should not be shared publicly. The commission believes that council does not have operational oversight of the police service and should focus on its own areas of authority, namely the finances of the police service.
The Edmonton Police Commission, comprised of appointed city councillors and citizens, maintains that the audit program is focused on internal risks to the organization and should not be shared with council. The commission believes that sharing this information could jeopardize the balance between public accountability and police independence. Police chief Dale McFee emphasized the significant roles of both the commission and council in effectively carrying out their responsibilities. The commission formally requested to meet with council and an independent third-party facilitator to improve their working relationship and examine their roles and responsibilities for the benefit of all Edmontonians.
Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi expressed frustration with the lack of communication between council and the commission, stating that council has a responsibility to ensure that resources allocated to the EPS are being used effectively. While council recently increased the police budget by almost 20 percent, Sohi emphasized the importance of being able to ask questions about the impact of these investments and how city resources are being allocated. The commission is still awaiting a response from council regarding their request to bring in a third-party facilitator to improve communication and collaboration.
Despite the ongoing dispute between the Edmonton Police Commission and city council, both sides are committed to finding a resolution. The commission has expressed a willingness to work with council and an independent facilitator to improve their relationship and better serve the community. Mayor Sohi has stated that his office is working with the commission to plan a facilitated discussion about how they can work together to effectively communicate with Edmontonians. Both the commission and council recognize the importance of transparency, accountability, and collaboration in ensuring the safety and well-being of all Edmonton residents.
Overall, the dispute between the Edmonton Police Commission and city council highlights the challenges of balancing public accountability and police independence. The commission’s refusal to share certain audit information with council has led to tensions, but both sides are committed to finding a resolution and improving their working relationship. Moving forward, increased communication, collaboration, and transparency will be essential in ensuring that resources are effectively allocated and that the needs of the community are being met. By working together, the commission and council can better serve the residents of Edmonton and address the challenges facing the police service.
