Police chief outlines succession plan and pay adjustments as top personnel costs drive 2025 budget

The Greenland police chief presented the department’s proposed 2025 budget on Oct. 23, saying personnel costs make up roughly 96% of the department’s operating budget and outlining a succession and pay plan intended to reduce overtime and retain staff.

The chief described a succession approach: having a lieutenant and a sergeant prepared to step into greater responsibilities and proposing that two lieutenants move from hourly to salaried positions to better control overtime costs. He said that change represents a modest first‑year savings (about $1,100) with larger overtime savings expected over time.

On compensation, the chief said he runs an annual, apples‑to‑apples wage study and recommended raises spread across officers (examples cited: one officer at 4%, several at 2% or 3%), with an average suggested increase around 3.3% based on 2024 comparators. Selectmen requested the chief share his underlying spreadsheets so the board could compare his methodology to the town’s MRI consultant study; the chief agreed to provide the backup data.

Board members also questioned fleet use and capital items tied to the police building. The chief said routine vehicle purchases and many outfitting costs are covered by a revolving/detail fund, and he proposed using the police CRF and a warrant article for major projects such as roof or HVAC replacement if needed. The board asked staff to combine wage and benefits data so members can see the full personnel cost picture before decisions are finalized.