The Calgary Police Commission has been keeping mum about whether former police chief Mark Neufeld got a golden handshake after he called it quits this spring, leaving behind two years on his contract. Neufeld resigned earlier this year, and the commission has been tight-lipped about any severance payment he may have received. When asked about Neufeld’s payout, the commission responded with a statement saying they couldn’t spill the beans due to confidentiality rules.
Councillor Terry Wong from Ward 7 was also approached about Neufeld’s severance pay but chose to remain tight-lipped as well, citing the sanctity of employment contracts. Neufeld’s departure from the force came to light on May 2 when CBC News got hold of an email sent to police force members announcing his resignation. Neufeld had taken the oath of office in June 2019, and his contract was supposed to last until 2027. The lack of transparency surrounding Neufeld’s exit from CPS has raised eyebrows, with political analyst Lori Williams from Mount Royal University pointing out that taxpayers have the right to know how their money is being spent on high-profile figures like Neufeld.
Williams emphasized the importance of public disclosure in such situations, especially when public funds are involved. She noted that the lack of information on Neufeld’s departure only fuels speculation and leaves the public in the dark about the circumstances leading to his resignation. The need for accountability and transparency in handling public concerns was underscored by Williams, stressing the significance of maintaining public trust in the Calgary Police Service. In the past, the City of Calgary and CPS have disclosed details of severance payments for executives, shedding light on similar situations. After Neufeld’s exit, Katie McLellan stepped in as the interim CPS chief, with the Calgary Police Commission announcing that they would not immediately kick off the search for a permanent replacement.
