Commissioners flag LEC and 9-1-1 shortfall as central driver of 2027 budget squeeze

Rob, the city's auditor and budget presenter, opened the discussion by flagging the local law enforcement center and 9-1-1 as a primary cost pressure for the 2027 draft budget. "Probably 1 of the most significant things to talk about right off the get go is gonna be the LAC and the 9 1 1," he said, and explained he split previously combined line items to show the LEC ask separately.

Mayor (speaker 1) and several commissioners said the city is now covering more of the LEC cost after two counties withdrew their participation, increasing Devils Lake's share. "Now we lost 2 counties, and we're supposed to make up the difference," the mayor said, emphasizing that the added obligation strains the city's ability to fund raises and basic services. Rob said he has sent the issue to the city attorney to determine whether the city is contractually required to meet the full LEC request under the joint-powers agreement; he noted that the existing joint-powers language appears to address corrections, administration and reentry but not 9-1-1.

Commissioners discussed options ranging from tapping reserves to running a sales-tax referendum or reducing services. Several members said they would pursue a special meeting with the Law Enforcement Center board to explore cost reductions before committing additional city funding. The commission did not take a formal vote during the workshop.