A motion to maintain the Blue Earth Police Department’s current, full time officer staff level failed on a 4-3 vote Monday night.
The motion was brought forward during budget discussion at Monday’s City Council meeting after concerns were raised about potentially reducing an officer’s position to part time.
Council member Ann Hanna argued that moving an officer to part time could lead to losing that employee, since officers would likely need additional employment elsewhere. That could leave the department struggling to fill shifts and relying more heavily on overtime.
Supports of maintaining current staffing also pointed to officer safety and the need to have partners available during certain calls.
However, Council Member John Huisman opposed taking staffing reductions off the table this early in the budget process, arguing it could limit the council’s options as discussions continue.
The motion ultimately failed, 4-3, leaving the current police staffing levels among the options still under consideration.
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