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Plain City to hire two police officers after panel interviews; budget can cover salaries
Summary
Council authorized staff to proceed with hiring two officers following panel interviews and conditional offers; staff estimates the Village will need about 14 officers when population reaches 7,000 (current estimate ~6,200).
Chief Dale McKee told Council that panel interviews produced a preferred candidate to whom a conditional offer has been extended and that a second conditional offer is pending. Chief McKee noted Officer Lake recently completed a four-day firearms training with the Columbus Police Department and placed third among participants.
Staff and the Personnel & Finance, CIP Committee recommended hiring two officers now: one to fill a current vacancy and another to meet a near-term staffing projection for 2025. The committee’s analysis used issued occupancy permits to model future staffing needs and concluded approximately 14 officers will be needed once the Village reaches a population of about 7,000; the current population estimate is about 6,200.
Finance Director Renee’ Sonnett and Administrator Haley Lupton confirmed the budget can accommodate the additional officer salaries without a supplemental appropriation. Council, by unanimous consent, agreed with the committee’s recommendation and authorized staff to proceed with the hires.
Chief McKee thanked panel members and described the importance of balancing experienced officers with newer recruits for department development. Council recorded that one retirement is expected in 2026.
