Kamloops RCMP commander looking for clarity on paused detachment build

Apr 17, 2026 | 4:17 PM

KAMLOOPS — Kamloops city council approved a pair of alternative approval processes (AAPs) to begin next Monday for Phase 3 of the Tranquille sewer improvement and the purchase of 965 McMaster Way. But those two where only half of the four AAPs council had previously approved, with one for the water quality plant rescinded, and a fourth for a new RCMP detachment placed on pause.

“Leaving the Kamloops police services building loan authorization bylaw in place as the project is on hold, direction towards public approval is also on hold with the expectation it will need to be revisited by council at a future date,” said David Hallinan, director of corporate services, on Tuesday (April 14). “Given the delay in moving forward with this project, the project budget must be reviewed before further steps can be taken.”

Council had previously begun the process of seeking voter assent to borrow approximately $150 million for a new RCMP detachment. With that on hold, Kamloops Mounties will remain shoehorned into their current location along Battle Street.

“The detachment was originally designed for 80 employees, and we are at approximately 217,” said RCMP Supt. Jeff Pelley. “Space is only one factor and it continues to impact us. We are going to continue to work with council, the leadership team and our asset management to ensure we can not only provide the proper service but address the growth needs.”

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Pelley called a new detachment not a ‘nice to have’ but a necessity, noting it’s not just space for staff that is lacking.

“It’s not only about modernizing but the growth around our fleet, our equipment, around how we conduct investigations. The thing is, even with technology, it doesn’t mean it just reduces the space,” added Pelley.

The detachment commander is looking for clarity from the city with regards to how long the project may be paused for. It’s been noted in the past that the RCMP could build themselves a detachment themselves and simply bill the city.

“We will work very closely with the City of Kamloops, the contract and their obligation so we can provide sufficient policing service to the community without compromising community safety. But there is always the consideration with respect to if we are not progressive with a forward plan, that we would have to look at alternatives,” Pelley told CFJC News.

by Michael Reeve

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Kamloops RCMP commander looking for clarity on paused detachment build

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