In a recent special called meeting of the Helena-West Helena City Council, discussions centered around the amended base pay ordinance for the city’s police chief, highlighting the complexities of leadership transitions and budgetary constraints. The meeting, held on July 4, 2025, revealed a pressing issue: the current police chief has not received a salary since his appointment, raising concerns about fair compensation amidst an impending change in city leadership.

Council members expressed differing views on whether to approve a salary of $70,000 for the chief, a figure consistent with what previous chiefs have earned over the past decade. One council member emphasized the need for immediate action, arguing that regardless of who the new mayor appoints, the chief should be compensated fairly for his service. “He is the chief now,” they stated, underscoring the importance of honoring the established pay structure.

However, some council members voiced hesitation, suggesting that it may be prudent to wait for the new mayor to take office before making any decisions regarding salary adjustments. This perspective reflects a broader concern about the city’s financial situation, with one member noting that the city is currently facing a significant budget deficit of $4 million. The debate highlighted the tension between maintaining established pay standards and addressing the city’s fiscal realities.

The council ultimately faced a critical decision: whether to uphold the previous salary standard or revert to a lower base pay of $55,000, which had been the figure before the recent oversight in the pay ordinance. The discussion revealed a deeper issue of accountability, as it was noted that previous mayors had failed to submit necessary corrections to the pay ordinance, leading to the current predicament.

As the council navigates these discussions, the outcome will have direct implications for the police chief and the community at large. The decision on the chief’s salary not only reflects the city’s commitment to its law enforcement but also sets a precedent for how the city manages its budget and compensates its leaders. The council's next steps will be crucial in addressing both the immediate needs of the police department and the long-term financial health of Helena-West Helena.