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Police asked for eight hires; city funds four now amid public safety sales-tax commitments
Summary
Police requested eight officers; staff reported four will be funded in the preliminary budget (two via the public safety sales tax and two via the general fund). Commissioners pressed for funding all eight and questioned how contracts and other commitments (including a $1.3M annual Axon contract) affect available capacity.
Staff summarized how the public safety sales tax was structured as a 10-year plan (assuming 2% growth) and how that money has funded pay plans, facilities and technology. Susan (staff) told the committee that police requested eight positions; the proposed preliminary budget funds four positions this year — two funded through the public safety sales tax and two through the general fund.
"Last November we agreed to an Axon contract for the body worn cams ... and it's $1,300,000 a year," staff said, noting the ongoing annual commitment. Commissioner Trumper said he wants to "hold firm on 8" hires and suggested staff look for funding sources across the budget to get more officers "boots on the ground." Commissioners discussed grant timing, trailing grant payments (a COPS grant with roughly $14,000 remaining), and reprioritization of equipment purchases to shift funds to personnel. No formal vote was taken; staff will continue to evaluate funding options for additional hires.
