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Sheriff seeks at least one new detention officer, outlines higher-cost option for two
Summary
Sheriff Scott Braun asked commissioners for two full-time detention officers to reduce overtime, detailed three staffing-cost options and said funds from bookings and fingerprint fees could offset positions; commissioners discussed alternatives including a contractual arrangement with Hays PD.
Sheriff Scott Braun presented the 2027 Sheriff budget ($5,717,805) and explained detention staffing pressures and options. Braun outlined three staffing options for detention officers: two full-time positions at $108,767, one full-time at $24,934, or a phased implementation at $66,851; he said funds from bookings and fingerprinting fees would help pay for the positions and requested "two full-time detention officers but would specifically ask for at least one."
Commissioners asked clarifying questions about hiring speed, benefits, and alternatives. Braun said benefits were included in the figures and that he had two officers leaving immediately and was already interviewing to fill positions. Commissioner Nathan Leiker suggested a contractual arrangement with Hays Police Department where costs might be shared, but Braun said that was unlikely; the commission indicated that at least one new full-time detention officer would be beneficial to reduce overtime and staffing strain.
