The Wausau Finance Committee's recent budget session highlighted significant challenges facing the city's police department as it navigates financial constraints for the upcoming fiscal year. A key issue discussed was the "maintenance of effort" requirement, which restricts the department's ability to reduce sworn staff without incurring penalties. This has prompted leaders to seek alternative budget cuts while maintaining essential services and staff morale.

Police Chief emphasized the need to balance budget reductions with community safety, stating, "We don't want citizens to feel unsafe or staff to feel they no longer work at a great place." To achieve this, the department proposed a "cost to continue" budget, ensuring that services in 2026 mirror those of 2025.

Among the cost-saving measures discussed were reductions in the animal control budget, which will see a decrease from $80,000 to $20,000, resulting in fewer hours for non-sworn staff. The department will also cap its stray cat contract at 150 animals per year, a move aimed at controlling expenses while still providing necessary services.

Other notable budget adjustments include deferring the replacement of police radios, eliminating a communications software subscription, and cutting recruitment costs due to anticipated retirements being managed through prior hiring. Chief noted that the department has sufficient ammunition for training, allowing for a one-time budget reduction in that area.

These measures reflect the department's commitment to fiscal responsibility while striving to maintain public safety and staff satisfaction. As the city prepares for the 2026 budget, the focus remains on balancing community needs with financial realities.