Police staffing and operating costs drew scrutiny as the commission considered whether to add sworn officers or rely on overtime. Police Chief Downey sought three additional officers to move toward four officers per shift; the proposed budget contains funding for one new officer and leaves overtime higher to cover the remaining coverage gap.

Commissioner Coy questioned the long-term efficiency of using overtime rather than hiring, citing fatigue and productivity concerns. Commissioner Bradley said ideally the department would get the full complement of officers requested but noted the cost of hiring includes a patrol vehicle, equipment and benefits. City Manager Dale Martin and staff said department requests were cut to meet overall budget constraints; vehicle purchases and body cameras are handled in the capital plan and capital fund rather than the operating department.

Budget documents also list an equipment line of about $31,000 for items under $5,000 (laptops, radios) and a capital plan for vehicle replacements. The commission did not make a final hiring decision at the meeting; the budget as proposed funds one new officer and increases overtime projections to cover gaps pending recruitment and capital vehicle planning.