Garland City Council Discusses Funding and Structure of School Resource Officer Program

The Garland City Council convened on August 18, 2025, for a work session that highlighted critical discussions surrounding the city’s budget and the School Resource Officer (SRO) program. The meeting underscored the importance of community safety and the allocation of resources in response to ongoing housing and educational needs.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the proposed annual operating budget for fiscal years 2025-2026. Chief Bridal presented details about the SRO program, which employs 31 officers, three supervisors, and one administrative assistant. The program is primarily funded through a partnership with the Garland Independent School District (GISD), with the city covering approximately 35% of the total projected cost of $6.3 million. This funding structure has raised questions among council members about whether GISD should assume a larger share of the costs, especially in light of recent tax increases approved by the district.

Council member Moore emphasized the necessity of the SRO program, noting its role in fostering proactive relationships between law enforcement and students. He argued that the presence of trained officers in schools is invaluable for ensuring safety and building trust within the community. Chief Bridal echoed these sentiments, asserting that the program not only enhances security but also provides mentorship opportunities for students, which are crucial for their development.

The council also addressed operational changes within the SRO program, particularly regarding the deployment of officers in response to school consolidations. Chief Bridal reassured council members that despite some adjustments, the morale among SROs remains stable, and there have been no significant complaints from the schools regarding the current arrangements.

As the meeting concluded, council members expressed their appreciation for the candidates being considered for various city commissions, highlighting the strong pool of applicants. The council is expected to make appointments in the coming days, which will further shape the governance of Garland.

Overall, the discussions during this work session reflect the city’s commitment to addressing safety and educational needs while navigating budgetary constraints. The council's decisions in the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining how effectively Garland can continue to support its schools and community safety initiatives.