Public safety officials cite staffing shortfalls, technology investments and rising overtime in proposed budget

Public safety leaders delivered a joint presentation April 22 on the police and fire components of the proposed FY2025–26 budget, highlighting staffing pressures, technology investments and increased overtime.

Commissioner of Public Safety introduced the presentation and thanked the council for support of two additional firefighter positions and three police positions included in the proposed budget. He described a department focused on community policing, outreach to the Hispanic community, homeless outreach and youth programs.

Police overview Chief Castelli told the council the police budget is roughly 56.7% of the public safety total and translates to just over $51 million; he said the proposed budget reflects “just under $4,000,000 increase, which is about a point 44%.” Castelli said most increases are for salaries, wages and benefits and for technology and…