A Sarnia Police Service report lists the potential takeover of policing in Point Edward and across Lambton County as a long-term justification for the construction of a new Sarnia police headquarters — a proposal that comes as a surprise to Point Edward officials. The section titled Police Service Growth Potential outlines “the long-term potential of SPS taking […]
A Sarnia Police Service report lists the potential takeover of policing in Point Edward and across Lambton County as a long-term justification for the construction of a new Sarnia police headquarters — a proposal that comes as a surprise to Point Edward officials.
The section titled Police Service Growth Potential outlines “the long-term potential of SPS taking over Point Edward policing and all of the county from the OPP,” estimating that such an expansion would require 75 to 100 additional officers and significantly increase space requirements.
The report, part of the police service’s planning documents for its proposed $91 million headquarters, also references expanding 911 and EMS dispatch operations to other municipalities and supporting additional emergency response services beyond Sarnia’s borders.
Both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Point Edward say there have been no discussions or consultations with Sarnia Police or its board about any possible transfer of policing responsibilities.
“As Mayor and a member of Point Edward Detachment Police Board, we have had no discussion with Sarnia Police Services and their Police Board regarding a change in coverage from our current contract with the OPP,” wrote Mayor Bev Hand in a statement to The Sarnia Journal.
“It was a surprise to all of council and our police board members to read that statement in the report issued by Sarnia Police related to their assessment of the need for a new headquarters,” Hand added. “We did not reach out to the city nor was there a plan to reach out in regards to policing services.”
Deputy Mayor Greg Grimes, who also serves as a member and past chair of the Point Edward OPP Detachment Board, confirmed the same.
“I can confirm that I have not had any discussions with the Sarnia Police Service Chief or his designates, nor with the City of Sarnia, regarding any change to our current policing contract with the Ontario Provincial Police,” Grimes stated.
He added that the Village remains satisfied with its current policing arrangement. “Personally, I am very pleased with the level of service provided by our front-line officers and specialized units. The detachment command staff continue to be highly responsive to community needs.”
Grimes also noted that the board recently completed its policing priorities for the 2026–2029 Detachment Action Plan, which will guide operations through to 2030. “This action plan will guide us strategically through to 2030, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to the Ontario Provincial Police and their members,” he said.
Neither Point Edward Council nor its Police Services Board had prior knowledge that Sarnia Police had cited the Village as part of its justification for a new headquarters.
The proposed new Sarnia police facility, projected at over $91.4 million, remains under review by city officials.
