‘Increasing caseloads’ creating backlog, shortage of court space for ROW

A new report shows that the Region of Waterloo is facing a hefty backlog for its ongoing non-criminal provincial offence proceedings, with staff saying it doesn’t have enough square footage through its court system to accommodate.

The report goes into detail on what it calls the “operational pressures and facility constraints facing the Region’s Provincial Offences Court and Municipal Prosecutions program.”

“Court operations have expanded significantly in recent years, with increasing caseloads and the return to 100 per cent courtroom utilization after a four-year judicial shortage,” said staff in the report.

It comes as the number of non-criminal provincial charges increased by over 61 per cent between 2019 and 2024, rising from 47,152 to 76,740, — a nearly 30,000 charge increase.

In 2024 alone, there were 58,412 court appearances, combining for over 902 hours of judicial proceedings.

Non-criminal provincial offenses include speeding, trespassing, noise violations, health and safety offences and more.

It’s noted that the revenue from those charges is up almost 50 per cent as well from 2020, hitting $9.1 million in 2024. That is listed as a 49 per cent increase over five years.

The region is currently operating out of three separate, aging locations in downtown Kitchener, combining to approximately 21,000 square feet. A needs assessment conducted by KPMG Consulting shows that the number needs to be closer to 29,000 for them to catch up.

As of now, the report details a backlog of 1,600 trials along with close to 4,000 early resolution meetings. Staff say a new facility is needed to help bring everything back up to speed.

“Heritage restrictions prevent expansion at the main courthouse site, and existing space constraints limit public service capacity, staff operations, and safety measures,” regional staff said.

While numbers fluctuate in regards to what the new facility could cost, preliminary estimates detail the potential of an over $100 million investment needed.

“Consolidation would improve operational efficiency, public access, and long-term sustainability, while enabling the Region to meet its obligations under the Provincial Offences Act and accommodate future demands.”

The report lists the growing population for the region as an additional reason for the necessity of the new facility.

The full list of information is set to be brought forward to the region’s Administration and Finance committee on Tuesday afternoon, expected to discuss potential land usage, building assets, as well as short-term options for the region to consolidate court services. That meeting is scheduled for 1 p.m.