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Simpson County approves $46,000 boost for school resource officer program as schools seek larger interlocal funding
Summary
The Simpson County Fiscal Court approved an additional $46,000 for the School Resource Officer program Sept. 20 after hearing the school system's funding request; officials discussed a proposed interlocal arrangement and possible corporate sponsorships to cover long-term costs.
The Simpson County Fiscal Court on Sept. 20 approved an additional $46,000 in county funding to support the School Resource Officer (SRO) program, responding to a broader funding request from Simpson County Schools.
Judge Mason Bames said Simpson County Schools has estimated startup costs for a renewed SRO program at about $450,000 and ongoing annual costs around $375,000. He told the court the school system can cover $175,000 and has requested that the city and county each contribute about $100,000 per year through an interlocal agreement. Magistrate Marty Chandler asked for a detailed breakdown of the proposed funding; the court was provided the requested documentation on its portals.
The funding action taken at the meeting was a motion to approve an additional $46,000 for the SRO program; the motion was moved by Magistrate Myron Thurman, seconded by Magistrate Scott Poston, and passed unanimously. The $46,000 was recorded in the budget-transfer list as 01-5076-596 funded from transfer reserve 01-9200-999.
Judge Bames suggested exploring community or corporate sponsorships to help sustain funding over time. No formal interlocal agreement was finalized at the meeting; court members asked staff for more detailed financial figures and next steps before committing to multiyear obligations.
The court's action was one of several budget approvals taken Sept. 20; officials said they will continue discussions with the school district and municipal partners on the structure and long-term funding for the SRO program.
