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Residents oppose proposal for armed private security at city facilities; council takes no action
Summary
Staff proposed contracting armed private security for city facilities at up to $13,000 per month while law-enforcement services are being negotiated; public speakers condemned the plan and urged hiring sworn officers instead. Council did not move the item forward.
City staff presented a proposal on July 28 to hire armed private security for city facilities — including the civic center, fire station and corporation yard — at an expense not to exceed $13,000 per month while the city negotiates law-enforcement services. The proposal was framed as a measure to protect employees and city assets in light of an unclear temporary arrangement with the county sheriff.
The idea prompted strong public opposition. "The fact that the city council is seriously considering spending public funds to hire security guards in an effort to protect yourselves, city employees, is deeply disappointing and unacceptable," public commenter Michelle Knight said, adding that the community would prefer investment in sworn officers or stronger negotiation with the county. Several speakers suggested alternatives: hiring off-duty sworn officers from nearby jurisdictions, relying on trained community volunteers, or using funds to advance reestablishment of a local police force.
Council members said they shared concerns about staff safety but were also troubled by optics and effectiveness; several said they were not prepared to proceed with the private-security contract. The item failed to advance for lack of motion after public testimony and council discussion.
