Council discusses 2026 extra-duty deputy schedule, dates and budget before March 17 action

City staff briefed the council in workshop format on the draft 2026 extra-duty deputy agreement and options for private security coverage.

Weathers (speaker 8) described last year's staffing outcomes (12 of 17 requested extra-duty dates were staffed) and explained that extra-duty coverage is not guaranteed but is based on availability. Staff said the draft contract term would run from May 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2026, and that the city can select dates within that period.

Staff estimated roughly $22,000 for approximately 19 extra-duty-deputy dates this year; the council also discussed an alternative arrangement with Phoenix Protective Group that would provide Thursday——through-Sunday coverage at Waterfront Park at an estimated $28,000, leaving an overall public-safety budget target of about $50,000 for combined solutions.

Councilmembers focused on critical dates (Memorial Day weekend, Independence Day fireworks, Founders Day, Blue Waters festival, Labor Day) and on whether private security can fill gaps when deputies are not available. Several councilmembers asked that staff include explicit holiday dates in the final contract schedule so the public understands when coverage is expected.

On procedural questions, council asked about the use of reserve deputies and whether reserve officers would be compensated at the same rate as full-time deputies; staff confirmed terms in the draft contract state compensation and that reserve deputies would carry the same authority and equipment when authorized.

Staff said the item will be returned for action at the March 17 meeting and invited council feedback on date priorities and coverage levels.