Guam Police Department seeks $1.5M for school resource officers amid budget concerns

The 38th Guam Legislature convened on June 13, 2025, for a budget hearing focused on the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, with significant discussions surrounding funding for public safety and educational programs.

One of the primary concerns raised was the potential impact of budget cuts on the Guam Police Department. Legislators expressed a strong desire to ensure that the department receives adequate funding to maintain public safety, emphasizing the importance of providing necessary tools and resources. The discussion highlighted a request for $1.5 million to support school resource officers, which is not currently included in the proposed budget. This funding is crucial for hiring additional officers to cover all six schools and to provide necessary equipment for the program.

The meeting also addressed the need for a $2 million HVAC system replacement, which was not included in the budget. Legislators noted the importance of addressing this issue to ensure the safety and comfort of facilities used by the police department.

In addition to public safety, the hearing touched on educational initiatives, particularly programs aimed at middle school students. The Guam Police Department has been working on implementing drug awareness and anti-vaping programs in schools, with a focus on reaching middle school students who are at a critical developmental stage. The "Catch My Breath" program, aimed at combating vaping, is one such initiative that has been introduced.

Legislators acknowledged the collaboration between the police department and school principals, which has been instrumental in the success of these programs. There is a strong push to expand these initiatives to middle schools, with hopes of creating a pipeline for students interested in law enforcement careers through programs similar to JROTC.

Overall, the budget hearing underscored the need for careful consideration of funding allocations to support both public safety and educational programs, with legislators advocating for the necessary resources to ensure the well-being of the community. The discussions will likely influence the final budget decisions as the legislature moves forward.