During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the financial challenges faced by the police department, particularly regarding overtime pay and the need for a potential tax increase. Miss Carroll inquired about which department currently incurs the most overtime expenses, leading to a dialogue about the police department's budgetary constraints.

The police chief acknowledged that their department, being one of the largest, likely draws the most overtime pay. He emphasized that overtime should be reserved for emergencies and unexpected call-outs, rather than as a means to cover unfilled positions. The chief expressed concern over the financial implications of relying on overtime, suggesting that it leads to inefficiencies, such as paying for more officers than necessary.

The conversation also touched on the broader fiscal landscape of the city, with officials noting that neighboring areas have raised taxes to address similar issues. The chief pointed out that the city is struggling to keep up with infrastructure demands due to rapid population growth, which complicates financial planning. He indicated that without a tax increase or an influx of commercial revenue, the city may face significant challenges in maintaining essential services.

Looking ahead, the chief projected that a tax increase would be necessary within the next two years to ensure the sustainability of city services and infrastructure. The meeting concluded with a call for a more balanced approach to growth, urging a slowdown in residential development until the city’s infrastructure can adequately support its expanding population.