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Council split on adding a police officer as staff seeks ways to close $125k gap
Summary
Councilors debated a police chief request to add a ninth officer (onboarding cost estimated at roughly $97,438). Supporters cited officer safety and single-officer risks; opponents said the recurring cost worsens a $124,750 structural gap and deferred the hiring decision.
Hot Springs — Councilors were deeply divided over a police department request for an additional officer on the heels of budget figures showing a six-figure shortfall.
The police chief sought authority to add a ninth sworn officer, and staff presented an estimated onboarding cost in the range of $97,438 for salary, benefits and associated personnel costs. Supporters said the hire was a safety measure to reduce…
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