Commission approves school resource officer agreement with USD 475 for 2025–26 school year

The Junction City Commission approved an annual agreement with Unified School District 475 for school resource officer (SRO) services during the 2025–26 school year, Police Chief Nichols told the commission.

"The Junction City Police Department provides school resource officers for USD 475 during the school year," Chief Nichols said, adding that USD 475 approved a 4% raise in the reimbursement rate paid hourly to the department and that the agreement covers SRO duties at schools and at school events.

Chief Nichols said the department currently staffs three SRO positions — one sergeant and two officers — assigned to the high school, Karnes and the middle school. The sheriff's office also staffs an officer at the high school and is preparing to add a second.

Chief Nichols told the commission the agreement had been approved by USD 475 at its June board meeting and that the contract's costs are included in the police department's budget; staff recommended approval. A motion to approve the agreement was moved and seconded, and the commission voted aye; the motion carried.