Coldwater council approves continuation of two school resource officer positions, district to cover 75%

The Coldwater City Council voted May 11 to adopt a contract continuing two school resource officer (SRO) positions at the high school and middle school.

Deputy Chief (pinch‑hitting for Chief Joe Scheid) described the program as an embedded public‑safety presence that improves consistency of response and relationship‑building with students and staff. He told the council the district will cover 75% of each position and the city will cover the remaining 25% including benefits and standard position costs; one position had previously been funded through a school grant that is expiring in August.

The deputy chief said SROs are used year‑round: when school is not in session, officers return to patrol shifts and fill overtime needs. He argued the positions allowed the department to respond consistently to threats and critical incidents and to implement joint training with school staff. The council moved to adopt Resolution 26‑51 and approve Agreement 26‑15; the motion carried without recorded opposition.

The agreement continues the partnership between the city and Coldwater Community Schools and establishes the current funding split and responsibilities for the positions.