Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety Police Staffing topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Fortuna police chief declares staffing crisis; mandatory overtime instituted
Summary
Fortuna Police Chief reported a staffing crisis in June and said officers have been required to work mandatory weekly overtime. The council was briefed and thanked mutual-aid agencies for support during recent events.
Fortuna’s police chief informed the city council on July 21 that the department declared a formal staffing crisis in June and has instituted mandatory weekly overtime to maintain public safety during the city’s busy event season.
Chief Everhard told council members his department has seen officers working 60 to 80 hours in some weeks and that neighboring agencies and state partners provided mutual aid during recent large events, including the rodeo and fireworks festival. The chief thanked agencies including the California Highway Patrol, Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, Eureka Police Department, Cal Fire and others for assistance.
Why it matters: The department’s staffing shortfall has operational implications for routine policing and event coverage. The chief said mandatory overtime is intended to maintain public safety while the city continues recruiting and addressing longer-term staffing and compensation issues.
Council reaction: Council members thanked officers and other staff for event coverage. The chief and council noted the staffing crisis as a factor to weigh in other budget and personnel decisions discussed later in the meeting, including potential park expansions.
Operational steps: The chief said the department is navigating the staffing crisis while relying on overtime and mutual aid. No formal change in personnel policy or new funding was approved at the meeting; council members expressed appreciation and concern and flagged the staffing situation in subsequent budget discussions.
