Barrhaven West Coun. David Hill said he’s grateful the province didn’t overlook Ottawa when considering where helicopters aimed at fighting auto thefts and other car-related crimes would be implemented.
“Ottawa needs some love, and we’re seeing that,” said Hill.
The provincial government announced Monday that it’s purchasing five police helicopters — two which will be designated for Ontario Provincial Police to use in Toronto and Ottawa.
More details about the impact for Ottawa will be shared at a news conference on Tuesday.
According to provincial officials, the helicopters will be used to combat auto thefts, stunt driving, carjackings and impaired driving.
Hill said stunt driving in the city has become “an epidemic,” but that auto thefts have also been a prevalent phenomenon for the past five years.
“It is unacceptable the current level of vehicle theft that we have in this city and we need to take action in order to curb that and so this is a positive step forward,” he said.
However, he said more needs to be done, like altering the Highway Traffic Act to make stricter punishments for repeat offenders.
Budget jump
In their original budget, the province allocated $46 million to this project, and Ottawa was not included. Now, the total has nearly tripled.
Premier Doug Ford said the increase to $134 million because the province purchased the helicopters, rather than their original plan to lease them.
“This new fleet of helicopters will be a massive boost for community safety,” Ford added. “I think it’s the best investment we’ve ever done in policing.”
He said it will allow officers to engage in faster and safer pursuits against suspects,with helicopters picking up the chase instead of police cars.
Michael Rothe, chief executive officer of Canadian Finance and Leasing Association, said the additional costs of the helicopters is worth it.
“Yes, it’s expensive, yes, we have limited resources, but this is an important issue,” Rothe said. “Think of it like it’s insurance for the country.”