City Council Explores Part-Time Employees for Code Enforcement Support

During the Dickinson City Council meeting on August 20, 2025, discussions centered on staffing challenges and potential solutions for the city's departments, particularly in code enforcement and the police department.

A key highlight was the proposal to explore the hiring of part-time employees to address short-term staffing needs. One council member suggested that utilizing part-time workers could alleviate some of the financial burden compared to full-time hires. However, past experiences with part-time employees, particularly an intern program, raised concerns about their effectiveness. The consensus leaned towards caution, with a preference for hiring full-time staff when feasible.

The conversation also touched on the importance of collaboration between departments. Public Works and the Police Department were noted for their roles in identifying code violations and assisting with community cleanliness initiatives. The idea of contracting temporary services for specific projects, such as city clean-up efforts, was proposed as a way to manage workload without committing to permanent hires.

In the police department, staffing shortages were a pressing issue. The captain reported difficulties in recruitment, attributing it to broader societal trends affecting law enforcement agencies nationwide. The council expressed concern over the potential impact of these shortages on public safety, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining adequate police presence in the community.

Additionally, the meeting addressed changes in employee benefits, specifically regarding Social Security contributions, which have increased following a recent policy shift. This change reflects a broader trend in employee compensation and benefits management within the city.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's ongoing efforts to balance staffing needs with budgetary constraints, while ensuring that essential services remain effective and responsive to community needs. The council's discussions will likely inform future hiring strategies and resource allocation as Dickinson navigates these challenges.