Sheriff Schuster advocates for $900K to address staffing and pay issues

The Mohave County Budget Workshop Meeting held on April 16, 2025, focused on various financial considerations for the upcoming fiscal year, particularly addressing departmental budgets and operational needs.

The meeting commenced with discussions regarding the travel budget for the Recorder's Office. A board member inquired about the adequacy of the travel budget, noting an increase compared to previous years. The Recorder clarified that much of the travel funding has historically come from Help America Vote Act (HAVA) funding, and highlighted the costs associated with using county vehicles for trips to Phoenix, which were estimated at around $600 per trip. This prompted further discussion on the potential cost-effectiveness of utilizing rental cars instead. The board agreed to review the vehicle usage costs to ensure they are reasonable.

Following this, Sheriff Doug Schuster addressed the board, reiterating the ongoing needs of the Sheriff’s Office. He emphasized his commitment to frugality in managing the department's budget while also advocating for necessary funding to maintain effective law enforcement services. Schuster noted that despite having seven vacancies, the department has made strides in increasing starting wages to remain competitive with surrounding agencies. He requested approximately $900,000 to address pay disparities and improve recruitment and retention of staff.

The Sheriff acknowledged the support from the board in previous years and expressed gratitude for their understanding of the challenges faced in law enforcement staffing. He highlighted the importance of competitive pay in attracting new hires, especially in a nationwide context where law enforcement agencies are struggling with recruitment.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for further analysis of the budget requests and a commitment to ensuring that the county's law enforcement and operational needs are adequately funded in the upcoming fiscal year. The board plans to continue discussions on these topics in future meetings, aiming to finalize the budget in a manner that supports both public safety and fiscal responsibility.