Terrace RCMP could see staffing levels drop to roughly 80 per cent this summer, raising concerns about policing capacity during one of the community’s busiest seasons.
The warning came during Monday’s Terrace city council meeting, where Staff Sgt. Michael Bourguignon, officer in charge of the Terrace RCMP detachment, outlined expected staffing changes in the months ahead.
The detachment is currently operating at about 95 per cent staffing, a level Terrace Mayor Sean Bujtas noted is higher than in previous years.
However, Bourguignon said that number is expected to decline as several members prepare to transfer out of Terrace.
“I think it’s going to be a tight summer,” Bourguignon told council.
According to Bourguignon, three members have received transfer notices and are expected to leave around May. At this time, only one experienced officer is confirmed to be coming in, assigned to the general investigation section. That member must first sell their home in Campbell River before relocating.
“We’re probably going to be losing three and gaining one,” Bourguignon said.
In addition, a vacant corporal position has recently been posted. Bourguignon said even if a qualified applicant comes forward quickly, the process can take several months.
“If we do have someone interested, applies, has all the credentials, three to six months probably for them to get here,” he said.
As a result, the detachment anticipates staffing levels could fall into the 80 per cent range through the summer.
“I’m guessing we’ll be in that 80 per cent range throughout the summer,” Bourguignon said.
While council did not indicate immediate action in response, members acknowledged the challenges that come with fluctuating staffing levels, particularly during the summer months when call volumes can increase.
