POLICE SERVICES BOARD (left to right): Provincial Appointee Robert B. Callow; Regional Chair Bill Fisch; Community Appointee Vic Wilson; Regional Council Appointee Mayor Margaret Black, Chair; Provincial Appointee Mario Cortellucci; Provincial Appointee Ricky Chan; Regional Council Appointee Councillor David Barrow, Vice-Chair THE POLICE SERVICES BOARD IS A LEGALLY CONSTITUTED CIVILIAN GOVERNING BODY THAT GOVERNS THE YORK REGIONAL POLICE. THE BOARD IS COMMITTED TO ITS VISION OF BEING THE "BENCHMARK OF EXCELLENCE IN POLICING."

QUALITY GOVERNANCE
The Police Services Board is committed to providing superior police services to York Region's growing and diverse communities. In 2000, the Board met this challenge with dedication, quality governance and accountability.

ENHANCED SAFETY
In an effort to enhance public safety, the Board supported several progressive law enforcement initiatives. Air Support Services became operational on a full-time basis and, to improve traffic safety, the Board approved the purchase of additional radar units and roadside screening devices, an Intoxilyzer 5000 C breath machine, stop sticks and rack kits. The Board also supported necessary infrastructure enhancements to consolidate fire radio communications with the police communications system, as well as the acquisition of computer software and hardware to ensure effective communications, assist with investigations and enhance officer safety. In addition, the Board celebrated the opening of a modern 3 District Headquarters and approved renovations to 2 District Headquarters in Richmond Hill.

OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
In 2000, the Police Services Board achieved stability in the York Regional Police Executive Command through the leadership of Chief Robert Middaugh and Deputies Armand La Barge and Terence Kelly. Additionally, the Board hired its first Executive Director, Connie Mahaffy. The Board was also successful in ratifying Collective Agreements with Uniform and Civilian Members and Senior Officers.

With a focus on developing proactive solutions to policing issues, the Board was active in the Ontario Association of Police Services Boards and advanced policy issues to the Solicitor General of Ontario and the Solicitor General of Canada. The Board also participated in seminars, summits, provincial and federal conferences that addressed law enforcement issues, including organized crime.

ACCOUNTABILITY
The Adequacy and Effectiveness Standards Regulation was introduced by the Ministry of the Solicitor General to ensure policing efficiency and effectiveness throughout Ontario. The legislation was introduced to standardize service and as a mechanism for holding a police service accountable. Work continued throughout 2000 to meet these new standards, with compliance proudly achieved by the Board and the York Regional Police in advance of the January 1, 2001 deadline.

Through strong fiscal management, the Police Services Board and the York Regional Police operated within their 2000 operational budgets. The Board supported the recommendations of the Chief of Police's Organizational Review and approved the 2000-2001 Business Plan for the York Regional Police.

CUSTOMER SERVICE INNOVATIONS
The Board improved service to the public through an expanded website and new brochure. In addition, the Board participated regularly in meetings of the Chief's Community Council, and submitted highlights of their monthly public meetings to the York Regional Police quarterly publication, The Blueprint. The Board also approved and encouraged the training of many York Regional Police members, and honoured civilians and police officers for their heroic actions in the community.

The Police Services Board will continue to support proactive solutions that improve policing services, prevent crime and enhance the safety, security and quality of life for all citizens in York Region.