In a recent council meeting, discussions centered around the proposed salary increase for the Chief of Police, currently set at $53,800, with a recommendation to raise it to $75,000. The council members debated the appropriateness of this increase, considering the chief's workload and the financial implications for the city.

Council member Wells proposed an amendment to delay the increase until July 1, 2024, with a 3% annual cost of living adjustment until 2027. This suggestion aimed to align the salary increase with the start of a new term, a practice Wells argued has been historically followed. However, other council members expressed concerns that the proposed salary was still too low given the chief's responsibilities, especially in light of the growing crime rate in Central.

Council member LaVine highlighted that the chief's salary had already seen a significant increase in 2020, questioning the necessity of another substantial jump to $75,000 just four years later. He noted that neighboring municipalities with full-time departments pay their chiefs less than the proposed amount, suggesting that the current salary should reflect the part-time nature of Central's police department.

Public comments during the meeting echoed the council's concerns, with several citizens advocating for fair compensation for the chief, emphasizing the demanding nature of the role and the need for adequate funding to attract qualified candidates. Many argued that the chief's salary should reflect the realities of policing in a growing city facing increasing challenges.

Ultimately, the council's discussions revealed a divide between those advocating for immediate salary adjustments and those favoring a more gradual approach. The debate underscored the complexities of municipal budgeting and the balancing act between fair compensation for public servants and fiscal responsibility. The council is expected to vote on the proposed salary adjustments in the coming weeks, with the outcome likely to impact the future of the police department and its leadership.