SOLICITOR GENERAL OF ONTARIO, MPP QUINN VISIT CPS

Cornwall, ON – The Hon. Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General of Ontario and MPP Nolan Quinn visited the Cornwall Police Service on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.

The Minister met with Chief Shawna Spowart, Acting Deputy Chief Chad Maxwell, and the CPS Senior Leadership Team. He also engaged with members of the Criminal Investigation Division, Community Patrol officers, dispatchers, records department staff, Community Safety Officers, and other staff.

CPS Board members Amanda Brisson (Chair) and Patrick Dussault (Vice-Chair) were also on hand as was City of Cornwall Mayor Justin Towndale and CAO Tim Mills. The Minister also met with Cornwall Police Association President, D/Cst. Matt Dupuis.

Minister Kerzner, a strong supporter of local municipal police services, came through on a promise he made to Chief Shawna Spowart several years ago.

“When he was first elected, Minister Kerzner made a commitment to visit the Cornwall Police Service and he honoured that promise,” said Chief Spowart. “We’re grateful to the Minister for taking the time to visit the City of Cornwall and it was a pleasure to welcome him – it’s clear he genuinely cares and has demonstrated a desire to listen.”

A variety of topics were discussed during the meeting, which lasted approximately 45 minutes.

"The City of Cornwall was pleased to host the Ontario Solicitor General and we appreciate Minister Kerzner taking the time to visit our police and fire facilities to meet with our first responders,” said Mayor Towndale. “Together, we will continue our work to ensure that Cornwall remains a safe and vibrant community for all.”

The Minister heard how the CPS maintains a community-focused policing approach, supported by a strong record of meeting local needs. Through effective city-wide partnerships, the CPS remains a trusted and respected presence in the community.

“This strong foundation is reflected in recent community consultation survey results, showing an 86% trust rating and an 84% satisfaction rate among residents,” said Chief Spowart.

As Cornwall becomes increasingly diverse, the CPS has also remained ahead of the curve – proactively adapting to demographic changes and ensuring inclusive, forward-thinking policing strategies.

Discussions also included the importance of grant funding, with the CPS expressing appreciation for the support received to date. Chief Spowart did emphasize the need to realign the funding cycle to enable more efficient and impactful use of grants.

The conversation turned to infrastructure, with a focus on enhancing the CPS’ operational presence and deterring illegal border activities and combating organized crime.

Additionally, CPS advocated for financial support to cover transitional costs associated with the implementation of the new Community Safety and Policing Act (CSPA), including training and necessary equipment to meet the updated standards.

CPS MISSION: In partnership with diverse communities, we are committed to the pursuit of excellence and keeping our city safe.

-30-

Media Contact:
Rodney Wilson
Cornwall Police Service
Wilson.r@cornwallpolice.com