Niagara Police Services Board announces new citizen appointee

In a news release Frdiay, Feb. 24, the Niagara Police Services Board has announced Nyarayi Kapisavanhu is regional council's newest citizen appointee board member. Her appointment is effective immediately for the remainder of the term of council. Jen Lawson, chair of the board, will officially introduce Nyarayi Kapisavanhu at the next board meeting on March 23.

“It is my honour and privilege to serve on the Niagara Police Services Board," Kapisavanhu said, "where I will have the opportunity to use my skills and experience working with and in various sectors and communities, to meaningfully engage on Niagara’s growing and diverse community needs and best interests. I look forward to working and collaborating with my colleagues on the board, the Niagara Regional Police Service, community stakeholders and the residents of Niagara Region.”

Chair Lawson applauded the citizen appointment made by regional council. “Police boards provide a critical link between the community and the police. It is imperative that boards are representative and reflect the diversity of the communities they serve, which in turn improves the quality of policing service to the public, making it more accessible and responsive to different needs. Nyarayi’s appointment will strengthen our board, and we look forward to her input and new perspectives on matters before the board.”

The police services board thanked Henry D’Angela "for his service to the board over the past four years. Mr. D’Angela has served a total of eight years on the board, including three years as board chair. His contribution and diligence have greatly benefited our board and there is no doubt that his involvement will positively impact the board’s work as we continue to move forward," the news release said.

Other members on the board include Dave Eke, provincial appointee and vice-chair; Pat Chiocchio, regional councillor; Laura Ip, regional councillor; Tara McKendrick, provincial appointee; and Bill Steele, regional councillor.

The Regional Municipality of Niagara Police Services Board is the civilian body governing the Niagara Regional Police Service and is comprised of seven members. By statute, three are members of regional council, three are citizens of Niagara appointed by the provincial government, and one member is a citizen appointment made by regional council. It is responsible for the provision of adequate and effective police services for 12 municipalities, totalling some 450,000 residents and an estimated 15,000,000 visitors annually.