Police chief asks council to consider small pay increase for part-time officers and a used replacement vehicle

Police Chief (referred to in meeting as Chief Slater) asked council to consider a modest pay increase for part-time officers and presented a vehicle replacement option at Marion’s regular meeting.

The chief said part-time staffing is budgeted for roughly 350 hours per year and that raising hourly pay from $20 to $22.50 would increase the annual part-time payroll by about $500 on the current budget, but could help recruit candidates who might later move into full-time roles. Councilors agreed to place the proposal on the next meeting agenda for formal action rather than voting tonight.

On vehicle replacement, the chief described a used 2024 Ford Explorer with a salvage title and just over 5,000–5,700 miles available from a local dealer (JW Autos). A new patrol vehicle would cost roughly $46,000 plus upfitting; the used vehicle and upfitting together could be $10,000–$15,000 cheaper. Council discussed warranty trade-offs and asked staff to return with final pricing and availability before a vote.

What’s next: Both items will be listed for action at the next council meeting; staff will confirm vehicle availability, final upfit costs and present a formal ordinance or resolution (if required) and an updated budget/justification for the pay increase.