The cost of police services in Chatham-Kent is going up about half a million dollars this year, even after some outside funding and savings in other areas. 
Council approved this year’s budget for the police service at just over $30 million dollars, up about half a million dollars from 2016.
Chief Gary Conn says the increase will go to some new service enhancements like drone technology and the new Text 911 feature.
Of the 30 million – about 90% will go to employee salaries and benefits.
Council will continue discussing the final numbers for the municipal budget tonight, with the proposed tax hike sitting at 1.96%.