The Decatur City Council held a budget workshop on June 6, 2025, to discuss the city’s financial planning and resource allocation for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting focused on various aspects of the budget, including personnel costs and overtime expenditures.

One of the key discussions centered around the police department's budget, specifically addressing the projected overtime costs. It was noted that by the end of the year, the department anticipates approximately $140,000 in overtime expenses, which is equivalent to the cost of hiring three additional officers. This figure raised concerns among council members regarding the sustainability of current staffing levels and the impact on public safety.

The conversation highlighted the relationship between patrol staffing and overtime, with council members seeking clarification on how these costs are calculated and their implications for the overall budget. The discussions underscored the importance of balancing adequate staffing with budgetary constraints.

As the meeting progressed, council members emphasized the need for a thorough review of all budget items to ensure that resources are allocated effectively. The workshop concluded with a commitment to further analyze the budget and explore potential adjustments before finalizing the fiscal plan.

Overall, the budget workshop served as a critical platform for addressing financial challenges and planning for the city's future needs, particularly in the area of public safety. The council plans to reconvene to continue discussions and refine the budget in the coming weeks.