Sheriff's Office secures funding agreement with Serena for dedicated school resource officer

The LaSalle County Public Safety meeting on July 5, 2025, focused on two significant topics: the establishment of a school resource officer (SRO) program with Serena and an increase in fees for hiring deputies for private security events.

The primary discussion centered on an intergovernmental agreement with the Serena school district to provide a dedicated SRO. Currently, LaSalle County has three SROs who rotate among 13 schools, but Serena has expressed a desire for a more permanent arrangement. The proposed agreement would see Serena contribute $65,687 for a deputy with single insurance or $81,942 for one with family coverage, ensuring that an officer is present in their schools most days of the week. This initiative aims to enhance safety and foster positive relationships between law enforcement and students, addressing not only potential threats but also everyday issues like bullying and conflicts.

Sheriff's representatives noted that the partnership with Serena reflects a growing trend among larger school districts to secure dedicated law enforcement presence. The program is currently funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds until 2026, after which the county will need to explore sustainable funding options. The sheriff indicated openness to expanding the program if necessary, emphasizing the importance of student safety.

The second topic discussed was the need to increase fees for deputies hired for private events. The current rate of $65 per hour has not changed in years, and the sheriff highlighted that this rate does not adequately cover the costs associated with overtime and vehicle use. The proposed new rate is $100 per hour, with a higher rate for holidays. This adjustment aims to ensure that the county does not incur losses when providing security services to private entities.

The committee unanimously approved the motion to forward the SRO agreement to the full board for review, pending approval from the state's attorney's office. The discussions reflect LaSalle County's commitment to enhancing public safety in schools and ensuring fair compensation for law enforcement services.