The Helena West Helena City Council held a special meeting on July 4, 2025, to discuss an amended base pay ordinance for city employees, particularly focusing on the police chief's salary. The meeting highlighted ongoing financial challenges faced by the city, primarily due to excessive overtime payments and contractor expenses.

Council members expressed concerns about the city's financial situation, noting that some employees were receiving significant overtime pay, which contributed to budgetary issues. One council member emphasized that cutting salaries for lower-paid workers, who had no role in the financial difficulties, would be unjust. Instead, the discussion centered on addressing the salaries of higher-paid positions, including the police chief, who was noted to be underpaid compared to his responsibilities.

The council ultimately voted to amend the base pay ordinance, allowing for the police chief's salary to be set at $70,000. The motion passed with four votes in favor, one abstention, and one absence. Council members acknowledged the need for future discussions regarding the salaries of other city officials, including the mayor, but decided to prioritize the immediate needs of the police department.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to revisit the broader salary structure in the future, particularly under the guidance of the incoming mayor. The council's actions reflect an urgent response to financial constraints while aiming to ensure fair compensation for essential city employees.