During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the implications of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on police department staffing and budget allocations. The CBA, which has resulted in increased wages for patrol officers, is set to expire in April, prompting ongoing negotiations with the union.

The budget for the upcoming fiscal year reflects a decrease in staff by eight positions, with the police department's authorized strength set at 42.5 full-time equivalents (FTEs) compared to 50.5 in the previous year. This reduction raises concerns about the department's ability to maintain service levels, particularly as the current staffing struggles to meet operational demands. Officials acknowledged that while patrol officers' salaries have been adjusted to be competitive with peer cities, support staff positions have been reduced, leading to potential challenges in service delivery.

The discussion highlighted the department's current staffing shortages, particularly in patrol officers, dispatchers, and jailers. With only three officers and a sergeant available per shift, the department is at risk of being understaffed, especially during periods of leave or emergencies, which could lead to increased overtime costs.

Additionally, the budget includes provisions for vehicle replacements, with a request for three new patrol cars to maintain operational readiness. Officials noted the challenges in acquiring new vehicles, citing supply chain issues and the need to replace aging fleet units.

Concerns were also raised regarding the overall budget increase of $250,000 despite the reduction in FTEs. Officials explained that this increase is attributed to higher costs associated with employee benefits and workers' compensation insurance, which have risen significantly.

The meeting underscored the importance of addressing staffing shortages and budgetary constraints to ensure the police department can effectively serve the community while remaining financially sustainable. As negotiations with the union continue, the outcome will be crucial in shaping the department's future operational capabilities.