Police staffing vs. overtime: commission weighs hiring against equipment and overtime costs

The police department requested three additional officers to move to four-officer shifts, but the proposed budget funds only one new officer; Chief Downey’s request and the department’s equipment needs were a focus of discussion. Commissioners questioned whether relying on overtime is a sustainable or safe approach compared with hiring more full‑time officers.

Commissioners discussed startup costs for a new officer — including a vehicle and equipment — against recurring overtime costs. Commissioner Cooley and others warned that chronic overtime can reduce officer performance and raise risks, while Commissioner Bradley said budget constraints required tradeoffs. The capital fund contains vehicle purchases; staff said the plan is to repurpose decommissioned police vehicles to other departments rather than buy new units for every need.

Other noted police costs in the draft budget include contract increases for county radio fees, a planned body‑camera and Taser package (budgeted under contractual services), and replacement laptops and radios budgeted as equipment less than $5,000 apiece. Telecommunications and cybersecurity investments are also increasing because staff is moving to city‑issued cell phones and tablets for security reasons. No formal staffing action was taken; commissioners asked staff to provide cost comparisons for hiring versus overtime and the full startup cost for a new officer.