Palm Desert proposes bigger police and fire budgets; officials cite staffing, technology and a $6M general‑fund transfer for fire

City staff told the council on May 14 that public safety remains the largest driver of the FY2627 budget, with proposed funding increases for both police and fire services and related technology investments.

Richard Canon presented the police services proposal and said the recommended police budget is approximately $30.4 million after adjustments for anticipated vacancies and overtime. Staff noted the RSO contract request was initially about $32.4 million and that the recommended number reflects realistic fill and training timelines. The presentation described an authorized complement of about 70 positions (including roughly 35 patrol deputies) and expanded proactive and specialized enforcement teams.

Canon also highlighted apparent operational outcomes tied to the investment. "As of March 31, 2026, ALPR assisted investigations have resulted in 245 arrests and the recovery of nearly $1.3 million in stolen property," he said, attributing performance improvements in part to technology and enforcement deployments.

On fire services, staff proposed about $29.4 million in spending, with the largest single component the cooperative services agreement with Riverside County Fire. Because projected fire revenues (~$23.1 million) fall short of estimated fire expenditures (~$29.4 million), staff said the FY2627 plan includes an approximate $6 million transfer from the general fund to maintain current service levels.

Fire staffing changes include expansion of fire‑marshal services from prior arrangements to in‑house staffing (two inspectors and additional plan‑review capacity), which staff said will reduce review delays and improve continuity for development reviews. Staff also said vehicle and apparatus timing (truck 102 coming online) and cooperative staffing hours contributed to the projected cost increases.

Councilmembers asked whether new 911 dispatch and nurse‑navigation programs would materially reduce fire costs over time; the fire chief said nurse‑navigation has transferred roughly 2% of calls on average to non‑emergency dispositions and has so far reduced re‑responses in a small percentage of cases, but staff said more data collection is underway before projecting budgetary savings.

The council did not take formal action at the study session; staff said they will return with continued financial projections and options as projects and contract renewals advance.