Interim Chief Mike Salvador named as Parlier's new police leader; council and chief flag budget and staffing pressure
Summary
Interim chief Mike Salvador, a 37‑year veteran, introduced himself and warned the council the police budget consumes a large share of the general fund; he said the department is 21 funded with four officers out on workers' comp, and he will present a 'dollar presentation' in January to outline costs and service options.
The Parlier City Council introduced Mike Salvador as its interim police chief at the Nov. 12 special meeting. Salvador, who said he retired after 37 years in law enforcement and has prior chief experience in other Valley jurisdictions, told the council he intends to focus on neighborhood hot spots, vehicle abatement and a review of department costs.
Salvador said the department is "21 funded," but that four officers are currently on workers' compensation, leaving roughly 17 available for duty. He cautioned the council that the police budget consumes a substantial share of the general fund, and that the city will need to make deliberate choices about service levels and fiscal sustainability. "If the general fund gets the sniffles, the police department suffers greatly," Salvador said, noting reliance on grants and fixed parcel taxes can constrain flexibility.
Council members and staff asked for clearer budget documentation and for Salvador to deliver what he described as a January 'dollar presentation' that explains where police dollars are spent and what service levels those dollars purchase. The chief said he will conduct a fine‑tooth‑comb review of department spending and staffing and will work with the city manager and finance staff ahead of contract negotiations with police personnel.
Mayor Alma Beltran thanked Salvador and emphasized the city's interest in avoiding service reductions that would impair public safety; council members stressed the need for transparency on personnel, workers' comp trends and any budget shortfalls.
The council later moved into closed session to discuss labor negotiation strategy with the city's labor negotiator for the Police Officers Association under Gov. Code §54957.6. The mayor announced there was nothing to report from closed session at adjournment.
Next step: Chief Salvador will present a budget briefing in January; council requested invoices and documentation for repetitive legal work on housing matters and asked staff to prepare audit documentation on water billing concerns raised by residents during the evening.
