Resolution amending the budgeted positions in the Police Department by adding two full-time Police Officer positions and one full-time Police Sergeant position.

Geoff Fruin, City Manager

Jennifer Schwickerath, First Assistant City Attorney

Dustin Liston, Police Chief

The fiscal impact will be incorporated into the FY2028 budget and is estimated to be an increase of approximately $370,000. Once fully staffed it is estimated that approximately $88,000 in overtime expenses will be saved. 

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This resolution results in a 3.0 FTE increase to the Police Department by:

• Adding 2.0 FTE Police Officer positions
• Adding 1.0 FTE Police Sergeant position

These additions would be incorporated into the FY2028 budget and result in an estimated increase of roughly $370,000. Once fully staffed it is estimated that a minimum of $88,000 in overtime expenses will be saved. This savings is calculated from baseline current overtime shifts that are mandated on Friday and Saturday nights.  

Following the April 19th shooting incident, the Iowa City Police Department and University of Iowa Police Department have collaborated to form a joint walking patrol for the downtown core of Iowa City in an effort to minimize the occurrence of violent crimes. This has been in operation since the weekend following the event and has allowed for each agency to evaluate the effectiveness and make-up of the joint team. Following the 3+ months of these joint patrols, both agencies are in agreement that it provides a safer nighttime environment in the downtown area. In addition, both agencies indicate that a team made up of two officers and one supervisor from each would provide the consistency needed in order to effectively sustain these duties moving forward. The ability to establish a dedicated, consistent presence, will help build relationships with the downtown businesses, patrons and provide a community policing influence similar to Iowa City's daytime Downtown Liaison Officer. This action would also address the impacts to the staff of each agency from prolonged forced overtime assignments. 

A comprehensive memo related to this recommendation is available in the City Council's August 13, 2026 Information Packet.