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Council reviews Waterfront Park security plan combining extra-duty deputies and private guards within $50,000 budget
Summary
City staff proposed mixing Spokane County extra-duty deputies (about $120/hour) and private security (about $60/hour) to expand weekend coverage at Waterfront Park; estimated combined cost equals the city’s $50,000 budget and would provide more consistent presence than deputies alone, which historically filled about 60% of requested shifts.
City staff proposed Feb. 4 that Medical Lake use a combination of Spokane County extra-duty deputies and contracted uniform security to increase summer weekend security at Waterfront Park while staying within the city’s $50,000 budget.
Staff said county extra-duty deputies are coordinated through the Spokane County extra-duty office and cost about $120 per hour; private uniform security services were estimated at roughly $60 per hour based on quotes from Phoenix Protective Corporation. Last year the city requested 39 extra-duty deputy shifts and about 24 (roughly 60%) were filled, prompting staff to seek a blended approach that provides more reliable coverage.
Staff presented an option that would request 18 extra-duty deputy shifts covering key holiday/event weekends at an estimated cost just under $22,000 and add private-security coverage on Thursdays through Sundays for the Memorial Day–Labor Day season at an estimated $28,000; combined, those services total just over $50,000, the amount the city budgeted for extra-duty deputies in 2025. Staff asked for direction to research contract options and return with a recommendation.
Council members noted the value of deputy presence (arrest authority) and the benefit of uniform security for consistent day-to-day visibility and rapid reporting to the sheriff’s office. Staff said extra-duty deputies are voluntary for county deputies and therefore not guaranteed, which is the primary reason for the mixed approach. Staff also noted anecdotal benefits last year when deputies were present, including arrests for vandalism and more consistent rule enforcement at park events.
Staff will return with draft contract options and recommended combinations of deputy shifts and private security that fit the existing budget.
