Park County commissioners voted June 3 to table indefinitely a proposed application to the U.S. Department of Justice COPS Hiring Program after staff and the sheriff's office raised concerns about required local costs and staffing commitments.

Kristen (county staff) presented the competitive COPS Hiring Program, saying the federal portion could pay up to "$125,000 federal share over a 3 year period" for a new deputy but that the county would face additional costs. "It's about, you know, 45,000 average a year that you would contribute," she said in the meeting. Kristen also said the grant must fund a new position, cannot be used for already filled positions, and requires the county to keep the position in place for at least one year after the grant ends.

County public commenters and law enforcement cautioned on total costs. Erica said the grant covers payroll but not a vehicle or equipment. Under Sheriff Ted Dexter urged prioritizing retention of existing deputies: "I think it is best that we prioritize the deputies that we do have currently ... and retain our staff than moving forward with the COPS grant." Dexter estimated vehicle and equipment costs near "$75,000" plus other expenses.

Commissioner comments reflected budget constraints and the difficulty of funding additional recurring costs. Commissioner Choi moved to table the application indefinitely; the motion was seconded and passed on a voice vote.

The motion to table was explicit; no application materials were submitted at the meeting. Commissioners said they remain interested in public safety staffing but want to prioritize retention and address fleet and equipment needs before expanding headcount through a grant that would impose local costs.