Residents press council for 24/7 drug drop box; council to consider procurement and staffing trade-offs

Residents and councilors discussed whether the city should install a 24/7 external drug drop box and whether the city should pursue expanded around-the-clock police coverage.

Jody Crockett told the council the existing drop box inside the police department is inconvenient for some residents and asked that the city consider a secure, outside drop box to permit anonymous, 24/7 disposal. "Would you consider giving me an answer at the next council?" Crockett asked. Another resident, Ralph, described a preference for drive-up convenience: "I just as soon drive up and drop it in the in and out." Both speakers requested anonymity and secure installation to protect people who deposit items.

Council members said the item is not final action tonight but will be discussed further. The mayor asked the city clerk to place the proposal on the agenda for the council’s last meeting in April so staff and councilors can evaluate security options, camera coverage and procurement. Council President Todd Thomas accepted a lead role to pull a procurement proposal together and return with options for the council, including potential security measures and placement.

Council members also discussed the broader issue of 24/7 officer coverage. Several councilors noted that providing continuous in-person patrols would require added capacity (additional officers or reallocation of budgeted personnel or a tax increase). The police chief said the department has 24/7 response capacity through on-call staffing but that a budget conversation on coverage would occur during the upcoming budget process. The council asked staff to return with specific procurement options for a drop box and to include the subject in budget discussions if expanded patrol coverage is desired.