CRA approves exploring police bicycle patrol for downtown; staff to pursue options

The CRA voted to proceed with further development of a police bicycle patrol to increase visible policing in the downtown Central Business District. Commissioners identified peak coverage hours (Thursday–Sunday, roughly 2 p.m.–7 p.m.) and heard staff cost estimates.

Staff told the board the annual cost for one full‑time officer dedicated to the program would be about $46,800; two officers would be roughly $93,600. Staff cautioned those figures did not include fringe benefits (estimated $20,000–$21,000 per officer) and did not include equipment. The police chief told commissioners the department is exploring both contracted retired officers and full‑time hires and noted training and field‑training time would be required for any new officers.

Chief Dean Shaw said a bicycle presence provides visible deterrence and closer engagement with business owners and residents. "I do agree totally with the increase of visibility as well as the opportunity to be able to address issues in the downtown," the chief said. Commissioners discussed contracting retired officers as a near‑term option while longer‑term hiring and training proceed.

The CRA made a motion, seconded and approved a motion to move forward with planning and budgeting for a downtown bicycle unit; commissioners asked the police department and finance staff to return with implementation options (contractor vs. city hire), cost details including benefits and equipment, and a proposed schedule for peak hours and special events. The board did not approve funding in this meeting but directed staff to continue exploring options and include the effort in budget planning.