The Bradley County Law Enforcement Committee convened on September 12, 2025, to address pressing issues regarding staffing and compensation within the sheriff's department. The meeting highlighted significant personnel changes, with 21 employees leaving the agency since the beginning of the year, many of whom transitioned to other law enforcement agencies offering higher salaries.

Sheriff Garland reported that the departures included school resource officers and corrections staff, emphasizing the challenge of retaining qualified personnel in a competitive job market. He noted that neighboring counties have increased their starting salaries, which has exacerbated the issue of employee retention. The sheriff expressed a commitment to advocating for better pay and benefits for his staff, aiming to elevate their compensation to at least the middle range compared to surrounding counties.

The discussion also touched on the need for a comprehensive pay study, as local cities are reportedly increasing their pay scales, which could further impact the sheriff's department's ability to retain officers. Sheriff Garland proposed revisiting the department's step pay plan to provide better incentives for long-term employees, suggesting a potential increase from 0.9% to 2% for longevity pay.

Committee members acknowledged the growing demands on law enforcement due to population increases in Bradley County, which necessitate careful budgeting and planning. They recognized the importance of supporting first responders while balancing the financial concerns of the community.

As the committee prepares for the upcoming budget discussions in April, there is a consensus on the need for a strategic plan to address compensation and staffing challenges. The sheriff committed to providing detailed figures and options for consideration, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to ensure the department remains well-staffed and capable of serving the community effectively.