In response to a proposed police merger with neighboring Soledad, Calif., the Greenfield City Police Chief submitted a proposed budget that removed $340,000 in costs over the next two years.
According to reports, savings in that plan would come from the elimination of a vacant sergeant’s position as well as pension reform. The chief’s plan will save about $90,000 less than the proposed regionalization plan.
The regionalization plan submitted by Soledad would eliminate the Greenfield chief’s position, but otherwise not affect current staffing.
Additionally, the Sheriff’s office has put forth a plan that would completely shut down the Greenfield police department, with policing handled by the Sheriff’s office. This plan would save $430,000 more than the chief’s plan outlined above.
Greenfield government leaders seem to be leaning towards what option provides at minimum “sufficient” coverage for their city.
A major factor at play in negotiations is retirement contributions. The Greenfield Chief’s plan includes $150,000 in savings from having police employees cover the full cost of contributions to CALPERS. Currently, the city covers almost half of the contributions.
Many in California believe it will soon be state law that public employees are responsible for all of their retirement contributions.