Chief: Calls up in November; council flags staffing and animal-control contract costs

During department reports at the Dec. 2 meeting, Police Chief Katie McMillan told the council that the department received 410 calls for service in November (up from 347 last year) and that speed violations and child-related calls increased.

"You received the stat report for the month of November. We had 410 calls of service," McMillan said. She noted one traffic stop resulted in an arrest on felony warrants and additional evidence of other felonies; she also announced a community event, "Cocoa with a Cop," scheduled Dec. 11 with 18 children pre-registered, and said a new squad car is expected next week.

Earlier in the meeting a council member noted the consent agenda included the resignation of a part-time officer and urged the council to consider creating a full-time position to reduce recurring turnover. The council instructed staff to add police staffing to new business for next month.

City Administrator Sarah Brown presented a Tri-County Humane Society contract renewal that, she said, carries a significant price increase. Brown reviewed recent animal-control costs (about $1,600 over the last year) and said the new terms add an administrative fee, increase per-day charges and raise maximum charges; she estimated municipal costs could approach $3,000 under worst-case scenarios but noted the council has $2,000 budgeted for the service. Council members agreed to renew the contract and to manage costs within the $2,000 line item.

The council also praised public-works crews for street-light installation and snow clearing, and discussed upcoming community events including a Santa parade and a "Battle of the Badges" chili cookoff scheduled in January involving Foley Police, Foley Fire and the Benton County Sheriff's Department.