Close working relationship with police just got closer for mayor of Mississauga

Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish, who’s no stranger to working with police in an official capacity, will now work even more closely with Peel Regional Police brass as one of two new members of the region’s police services board.

Parrish and lifelong Peel resident and businessman Omar Khan were announced on Tuesday as new members of the Peel Police Services Board, the civilian body that governs the region’s law enforcement agency.

In a news release, the board said its two newest members “bring a wealth of experience, dedication and passion for public service, which will greatly enhance the board’s efforts to ensure effective oversight and governance for Peel Regional Police.”

Parrish, a longtime Mississauga politician (municipal and federal) who emerged victorious in the city’s mayoral byelection on June 10 to succeed Bonnie Crombie, often worked closely with Peel police in her previous position as Ward 5 councillor.

In recent years as illegal street racing and stunt driving became more prevalent across Mississauga, notably in the Malton area, she regularly met with Peel police to push them for more enforcement and work together to address the issue.

Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish is one of two new members of the Peel Police Services Board.

Parrish constantly asked police to clamp down on the illegal activity, particularly on weekend nights when dozens if not hundreds of people and their cars would gather in the parking lot of Westwood Mall to rev and race their vehicles.

The city’s new mayor said she’s looking forward to being a voice for Mississauga residents on the police board.

“My goal is to ensure that our police services are both effective and responsive to the needs of our diverse community,” Parrish said. “I look forward to working with my fellow board members to enhance public safety and trust.”

Khan, meanwhile, is described by the board as a “passionate advocate for community safety and well-being” who brings more than 25 years of experience in the construction and manufacturing industries to his new post.

“Khan has demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality and innovation,” the board said in its news release. “His professional expertise in sales and marketing complements his dedication to community service.”

The board added Khan is an active supporter of children’s charities, including Children’s Make a Wish and Friends of the Orphans Canada, “and he advocates for mental health awareness to reduce stigma and promote community well-being.”

Khan said it will be a privilege to serve his community on the police board “and work towards ensuring that our police services meet the highest standards of excellence and accountability.

“I am committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all residents,” he added.