While Essex residents praise individual Ontario Provincial Police officers for their professionalism, they have concerns about a lack of visibility in the community and increased crime.
Essex Town Council receives the results of an online community survey on Monday night.
Councillors asked for the survey last year. The last one was in May 2020. Last November's poll received 210 responses or about one per cent of the overall population.
The survey asked questions about their general satisfaction with the Ontario Provincial Police.
The most prominent theme was a perceived lack of visibility in neighbourhoods, public areas, and residential streets. Residents cited speeding, reckless driving, and insufficient law enforcement as concerns. Others complained about slow or delayed response times, especially in urgent situations.
Of those who had contact with the OPP in the past year, 18 participants felt the service quality did not meet their expectations and believed their complaints were not taken seriously.
Most Essex residents said they feel safe or very safe in their community, but many indicated they believe crime has increased.
A report to councillors said the findings are in line with the survey taken in 2020.
