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Board approves one‑year law‑enforcement contract with Raymond after debate over term length
Summary
The Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors approved a one‑year contract for the county to provide law enforcement services to the city of Raymond at $26,301.76 for fiscal 2026, after debate about a proposed three‑year agreement and an amendment to limit the term to one year.
The Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors voted July 1 to approve a one‑year contract for the county to provide 20 hours per week of law enforcement coverage to the city of Raymond at $26,301.76 for fiscal 2026.
The item had been introduced as a three‑year agreement with scheduled increases to $28,931.94 in FY 2027 and $31,825.13 in FY 2028. Supervisors expressed concern about locking the county into a multi‑year term while the county continues to evaluate the proper cost share for small‑town policing. Supervisor discussion focused on the long gap between what the county values as a full‑time deputy and the amount charged to Raymond, and on budgeting uncertainties for both the city and county.
The sheriff’s office representative explained the contract historically covered 70% of a referee position via state reimbursement patterns and noted operational costs for a full‑time deputy are far higher than the contract rate. After debate, a supervisor moved to amend the motion to a one‑year term limited to the FY‑26 amount; that amendment was seconded and approved by roll call. The board then approved the one‑year resolution for $26,301.76.
Why it matters: supervisors said a single year preserves flexibility while giving Raymond time to plan and gives the county a chance to continue discussions about an equitable rate. The county indicated it will revisit the contract next year if needed.
What happened next: staff were authorized to finalize and execute the one‑year agreement so the city of Raymond retains coverage. The board signaled interest in further conversations with Raymond and in reviewing cost‑sharing options before any longer term commitment.
