Sheriff warns of rising service demand; proposes higher contract rates for Richmond

Cache County Sheriff Chad Jensen told the Richmond City Council on April 21 that calls for service in the valley are increasing and that Richmond’s contracted service hours and costs will need adjustment to keep pace.

"Calls for service are currently at 526 and are projected to reach approximately 700 by the end of the fiscal year," Sheriff Jensen said, noting that Richmond’s contracted deputy hours (1,202 hours) are lower than current usage and that actual countywide contracted hours for Richmond have been running higher. He presented proposed hourly contract rates for Richmond of $60.00 for 2026–27, $64.00 for 2027–28 and $68.00 for 2028–29.

Jensen said the county has implemented a step-and-grade pay structure and that the average starting deputy wage is $30.72 per hour. "The proposed rates adjust the hourly rate rather than contracted hours, keeping wages competitive and ensuring positions remain filled," he said.

Mayor Jeffrey D. Young expressed support for emphasizing community engagement and balanced enforcement as the Sheriff's Office prepares to educate the public on new e-motorcycle laws that take effect May 6, 2026. Sheriff Jensen said the department will increase training and public-information efforts to reduce confusion and focus on safety.

The sheriff also briefly described an internal administrative reorganization and said an updated organizational chart would be provided to the mayor and council. Councilmembers expressed support for the proposed wage approach and acknowledged staffing and pay pressures amid valley growth.

No formal contract vote was taken at the April 21 meeting; Council discussion focused on understanding the figures and planned next steps.