Warren council approves multiple budget transfers, accepts JAG grant to buy two K9s

The Warren City Council on June 23 approved multiple budget transfers and appropriations totaling more than $2 million across departments, and accepted a federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) to purchase two police K9s.

Items approved included transfers and additional appropriations to cover contractual obligations in building inspections, planning, public service, property maintenance, courts, information services, treasurer, police, fire, parks, sanitation and library furniture purchases for the new Richard L. Palmer Branch Library. The Parks and Recreation Department received a large additional appropriation and the library was authorized to purchase furniture not to exceed $148,289.91.

The council accepted $51,173 in JAG grant funds earmarked by staff to buy two K9s and to pay training and equipment costs. "This is a great use of grant money," a councilmember said during discussion; staff noted the department currently operates seven canines and the grant will add or support two more.

Councilwoman Moore voiced concern that overtime and staffing shortages have driven repeated transfers, saying overtime "is killing us" and that hiring more officers and staff would help reduce long-term cost pressures.

What happens next: Departments will implement purchases and staff changes as budgeted; council directed oversight and noted continued monitoring of overtime and staffing needs.

Clarifying details: Specific transfer amounts were recorded in the agenda for each line-item request (e.g., $112,490 and $32,000 for building inspections/planning, $803,250 for Parks contractual obligations). Some exact figures were discussed in roll-call items; the transcript lists multiple itemized amounts in agenda text.