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Council approves contract to place nine school resource officers in Benton schools
Summary
The council authorized an agreement placing nine school resource officers across Benton School District campuses for 2026–27; staff and the police chief explained training requirements and cost-sharing with the district.
Benton City Council voted unanimously to authorize the mayor to execute a contract placing nine school resource officers (SROs) in Benton School District campuses for the 2026–27 school year. Finance committee presented Resolution 38 and staff said the arrangement provides one SRO at each district campus; the contract does not include the district's career/technical site, which has a separate agreement.
Councilors asked about SRO training and duties. The police chief explained that by law SROs complete required school-safety training (typically about a week) and additional local training programs, including a countywide active-shooter program that agencies participate in. Council members expressed support, noting staff and community confidence that the officers enhance school safety and event coverage; the resolution passed 10–0.
