Lise Poratto-Mason has been elected chair of the Greater Sudbury Police Services Board, replacing Michael Vagnini in the position.
The election was held Jan. 11 before the board approved the service’s budget to present to city council on Jan. 19.
Frances Caldarelli was elected vice-chair.
“I look forward to working with my board colleagues in fulfilling our commitment to leading the way in community safety and to supporting the citizens of Greater Sudbury,” said Poratto-Mason in a news release. “The board continues to tackle a broad range of issues that are critical to ensuring policing in our city is responsive.
“This past year, we have witnessed and lived through unprecedented times. We are proud of our team for the outstanding work they have continued to do despite the work demands the COVID-19 pandemic has brought. We have modernized our business through the use of technology and updated business practices while ensuring a business model that meets the needs of the people.”
Poratto-Mason was appointed Feb. 14, 2020 to serve as a member of the Greater Sudbury Police Services Board. She is now entering her second year of a three-year term.
Caldarelli is a longstanding member of the police services board.
“I am proud to serve as the vice-chair of the Greater Sudbury Police Services Board for 2021 and am grateful for the confidence the board has shown,” said Caldarelli. “Greater Sudbury Police Service is recognized as a leader and innovator in community safety. I am indeed honoured to work with our dedicated team.”
Caldarelli was appointed to the board in January 2015 as the City of Greater Sudbury council, citizen member. She assumed the post of vice-chair in February 2015, and of chair in 2015 and 2016 and has been an active participant since that time.
Caldarelli is also vice-chair with the Ontario Association of Police Services Boards.
Police Chief Paul Pedersen said the work of the Police Services Board is critical in addressing the many challenges and opportunities in policing.
“The Service is fortunate to have their leadership and that of the board as we tackle many complex and ever-changing issues,” said Pedersen. “On behalf of the Service, we extend their dedication to service excellence and look forward to working together on priorities. I also extend sincere thanks and appreciation to Member Vagnini for his many years of dedicated leadership as chair of the Board. He has served with great pride and distinction.”
The board provides direction and guidance to the chief of the Greater Sudbury Police Service while ensuring that adequate and effective police services are provided in accordance with the needs of the municipality.