Hiram council hears police staffing proposal; vote set for August

Police Chief Clemens told the Hiram Village Council on July 15 that the police department needs an additional full‑time officer to address scheduling gaps, add a second detective position and reduce officers' comp time and overtime.

Chief Clemens and staff said the additional hire would help the department meet regular policing duties and the traffic and safety demands associated with Hiram College move‑in. The fiscal estimate provided to council was roughly $16,000 for the remainder of 2025 and an additional $20,000–$25,000 in the 2026 budget to fully fund the position.

Mayor Anne Haynam and council members discussed the timing and budget implications but did not take a vote at the July meeting. Council members agreed to hold a formal vote on the staffing request at the August council meeting, when appropriation adjustments can be considered alongside other budget items.

The request follows routine departmental updates: Fire/EMS Chief Bill Byers said he will distribute links to recommended NIMS training for council members, and the police department announced a community 'Fishing with a Cop' event scheduled for Aug. 9 at Camp Asbury.

The council did not amend appropriations related to the hire at the July 15 meeting; Fiscal Officer McKenna Miller previously reported a recommended increase in appropriations to reflect higher speed‑camera income but council reserved action on the policing item until August.