City Council approves crucial police staffing resolution

During a recent government meeting, the council addressed several key resolutions, including the approval of a grant application and a proposal to maintain police staffing levels.

The council first voted on resolution number 3657, which authorizes the submission of an application for the MCEP infrastructure planning grant. Councilmember Conley moved to approve the resolution, which was seconded by Councilmember Daniels. The discussion highlighted the city's previous experiences with grant applications, including a stormwater planning grant and a wastewater planning grant that had been denied. The council noted that securing this grant could alleviate some financial burdens, allowing the city to utilize $30,000 from its water reserves instead of covering the full project cost.

Following the successful vote on the grant application, the council moved on to resolution number 3658, aimed at ensuring a minimum staffing level of seven sworn police officers to maintain 24/7 coverage in Red Lodge and its surrounding areas. Councilmember Conley emphasized the importance of this staffing level, noting that the city has experienced fluctuations in officer numbers, which could impact public safety. The resolution was also seconded by Councilmember Ronning, and the council discussed the growing demands on police services as the community has expanded over the past three decades.

Both resolutions passed unanimously, reflecting the council's commitment to infrastructure development and public safety in the community.