Council demands transparency on police recruitment spending

In a recent government meeting, the Seattle City Council approved an amendment requiring the Seattle Police Department (SPD) to report on its recruitment and retention program as outlined in the 2024 budget. The report, due by September 24, will detail spending, performance metrics, and qualitative insights into various program elements, including the use of hiring incentives and technology initiatives aimed at streamlining the recruitment process.

Council members expressed particular interest in understanding how SPD plans to utilize the $1.5 million allocated for advertising and the proposed additional $800,000 for marketing efforts. They also sought clarity on the technology initiatives being implemented to expedite hiring, such as automatic case management systems and the use of external background services.

The amendment passed unanimously, with all nine council members voting in favor. This initiative reflects a growing focus on enhancing recruitment strategies within the SPD, which has faced scrutiny over staffing levels and community relations.

The meeting concluded with a brief acknowledgment of personal milestones among council members, including a birthday celebration and a farewell for a departing colleague. The next scheduled meeting will focus on finance and tribal government issues, set for September 4.