Sparks HR presents police recruiting, testing and department staffing numbers for Jan–Mar 2026

Shauna Halterman, the city’s HR director, presented the Sparks Civil Service Commission with a quarterly report on civil service recruitment, testing and employee actions covering January through March 2026.

Hal­terman said the city invited 22 applicants to complete the police physical fitness test during the quarter; six withdrew and 43 invitees had not yet taken the physical (applicants have one year to complete fitness testing). Of the 22 who completed the physical and were invited to the written exam, 10 passed, one failed and 11 had not yet taken that portion. On an internal promotional police lieutenant exam, Halterman said six candidates were invited and all six passed.

Hal­terman also summarized staffing by department: she estimated community services at about 150 employees, police about 172, fire about 99 and management services (combined units including IT, city clerk, HR and finance) smaller in total. She noted the quarterly confidential packet provided commissioners contains personnel details that are not released to the public and that commissioners may contact HR with questions if they need further information about any confidential entry.

Commissioners asked whether failing candidates may retake written exams; Halterman said written exams generally cannot be retaken immediately but applicants may reapply after a year, while physical tests can be repeated sooner. On promotion policy, Halterman said police and fire often promote from within and internal promotional exams reflect department needs.

Hal­terman reviewed how the city advertises vacancies — governmentjobs.com, social media and targeted platforms (including outreach to Latino candidates) — and noted the city emails postings to all employees. Commissioners asked for regular presentation of the broken‑out numbers in this format going forward so the public and commission can better follow recruitment priorities.