Building Stronger Communities: A New District Model for Ottawa

The Ottawa Police Service is ushering in one of the most transformative changes to public safety in our city’s history: a shift to a district policing model that puts community connection, geographic ownership, and real accountability at the forefront.

Announced today by Chief Eric Stubbs, the new model will move the Service away from a centralized structure toward four full-service districts—West, Central, South, and East—each led by its own Superintendent. This isn’t just a reshuffling of resources; it’s a complete reimagining of how the OPS serves Ottawa’s diverse communities.

“This is about more than adding a district—it’s about changing the way we engage with the people of Ottawa,” said Chief Stubbs. “It’s about local leadership, visible accountability, and tailored solutions for every corner of the city.”

What’s Changing—and Why It Matters

The district model will bring key roles and services directly into neighbourhoods, creating teams that reflect and respond to the unique needs of each area. These integrated teams will include Community Police Officers (CPOs), Youth Officers, Neighbourhood Resource Teams (NRTs), Traffic Teams, Crime and Research Analysts, and new Community Intake Relationship Specialists—all focused on prevention, early intervention, and stronger connections with residents.

While emergency response will remain centralized within District Frontline Patrol, officers will take on a greater role in proactive community engagement and problem-solving within their zones. Investigative units will remain centralized, but with new requirements to work closely with District teams to address issues like break and enters, street crimes, and drug-related offences.

Two Phases of Implementation

• Phase I – January 2027: Formal launch of the District Policing model, including the creation of a new South Platoon with 44 new full-time positions. This phase represents an $8.24 million investment.
  
  

• Phase II – 2028: Expansion of CPO coverage citywide and reinforcement of roles within the Community Safety and Well-Being directorate. This adds another 19 full-time positions and $3.2 million in funding.
  
  

In total, 63 new positions and $11.4 million will be invested over three years, in alignment with the Ottawa Police Services Board’s new Strategic Plan, set to be released this Monday.

Laying the Groundwork for Success

Work is already underway to finalize district boundaries, improve the community intake system, embed a safety and well-being mindset across all OPS operations, and ensure engagement strategies are grounded in lived realities—not just policy.

In addition, a staffing audit in collaboration with City Hall will provide the data needed to support further investment in Frontline patrol, recognizing the need to increase capacity to meet growing demands.

A Call to Action

Chief Stubbs emphasized the importance of collaboration as the organization prepares for the launch. “Sworn and civilian members across OPS are shaping this model. If you’re asked for your insight—speak up. Your voice matters.”

This bold step toward community-driven policing marks a new chapter for Ottawa—one rooted in trust, responsiveness, and a deep commitment to serving every neighbourhood with care and accountability.