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Sheriff says department is staffed, cites modest training overrun and pending body‑camera tests
Summary
Sheriff Bill Right told commissioners the department is fully staffed for full‑time positions, is recruiting part‑time dispatchers, and has a small budget overrun tied to training; he said the extradition line is about 63% spent and the department is awaiting body‑camera test units before a vendor recommendation.
Sheriff Bill Right updated the Belknap County Board of Commissioners on department operations, staffing and grant activity, saying the office is "still fully staffed and trained" for full‑time roles while continuing to recruit part‑time dispatchers to cover vacations and surges.
Right told commissioners the department has filled its bailiff posts, is executing a succession plan and is focusing on training. He said the training line is running roughly 2% over the budget “at this given time,” a figure he attributed to investment in preparing personnel rather than an ongoing shortfall.
On extraditions, Right said that line is "about 63% spent right now" and noted the remaining dollars are limited — he estimated roughly $2,200 was still available after recent costly trips to California and Michigan and pending events in Virginia and Florida. "It's tough to really predict what we'll do," he said, adding that occasional overages are possible when out‑of‑state transfers are required.
Right also briefed commissioners on grant work: the department resubmitted a Congressional direct‑spending grant with a changed scope and amount and is awaiting notification on an early submission for a body‑worn camera grant. When asked about vendor selection, he said the office is "leaning towards Axon" but had not made a final decision because staff are awaiting Motorola test cameras to complete comparative trials.
On facilities and safety, Right said a security fencing installation at the sheriff's parking area would begin the following day and described courtroom and holding‑area upgrades that include keyless entry, a new metal detector and an x‑ray machine. He noted one prior incident where the design of graded holding‑cell doors contributed to a self‑harm attempt and said staff are exploring safer door materials to reduce that risk.
Right reported the department ordered two cruisers under a leasing program and that radios recently arrived for vehicle outfitting; he said the department expects vehicle assemblies to begin once equipment is returned to the outfitter. He closed by saying he stays in close contact with the county attorney’s office and the administrative office of the court to ensure court security operations run smoothly.
The update drew several procedural questions from commissioners about vendor choices, staffing and facility fixes; Right and staff responded with the current status and next steps.
