Good Shepherd to fund four hospital‑assigned officers under agreement approved by council

The Hermiston City Council on March 24 approved a funding agreement with Good Shepherd HealthCare Systems under which the hospital will pay for four additional police officers assigned to a hospital beat.

City staff described the contract as covering training, equipment and salary costs for four officers who would be dedicated to the hospital’s beat but not be immovable; the officers can be temporarily reassigned to city needs during major incidents.

City Manager Smith and police leadership said the arrangement would enhance safety at the hospital, give consistent on‑site law enforcement coverage and also free general patrol officers for other city needs. "Putting four new officers on a Good Shepherd beat" was the staff summary of the proposal, and staff noted the hospital’s leadership had approved the arrangement.

Councilor Roberts asked whether the city could absorb the cost should Good Shepherd terminate funding; staff replied the city could not immediately absorb the full cost and would need to evaluate options if the contract ended or be forced to reallocate or reduce other police positions.

Council discussion otherwise endorsed the partnership as a community benefit that would reduce pressure on patrol resources when hospital security needs arise. The resolution authorizing the agreement (Resolution 23‑64) passed by unanimous roll call vote.