Police & Fire Commission Meeting - March 5, 2026

The City of Stevens Point Police & Fire Commission meeting on March 5, 2026, focused on personnel updates, budget considerations, and equipment acquisitions. The commission approved conditional employment offers for three new police officers and a probationary firefighter paramedic, addressing staffing needs with a current total of 47 officers, still two short of the target. Financially, the department reported a $19,000 savings related to recent retirements and interim chief pay, and a pending refund of $27,500 from a contract fee, which will be applied to the 2025 budget. Additionally, the commission accepted a $2,500 donation from Midwest Restoration to purchase a hydro ram extrication tool for fire department apparatus. Operational challenges were discussed, including the impact of ongoing construction projects on emergency response times, with assurances that city officials are receptive to input to mitigate disruptions. The meeting also highlighted community engagement efforts and recent security support for visiting dignitaries.