Since 1991, the Billings Housing Authority has funded one police officer through an agreement with the City of Billings. The funding consists of salary, benefits, and maximum of four (4) hours of overtime per month. Due to the loss of a grant, the Housing Authority is now funding this position from its office budget for a six month period. Staff is recommending City Council approve this agreement for funding one officer from January 1, 2012, through June 30, 2012.   

The City Council may either approve the Housing Authority Agreement to fund one officer or not approve the Housing Authority Agreement.  If the agreement is not approved, the salary and benefits of $41,839.00 is already budgeted for and the position will be absorbed through attrition.  

The City provides a vehicle and equipment for the officer. The Billings Housing Authority pays the salary and benefits for the officer, to a maximum amount of $41,839.00, for the 6 month period of January 1 through June 30, 2012.  This amount is budgeted in the current budget. If the Housing Authority is unable to fund the officer position after June 30, 2012, the position will be absorbed through attrition.

Staff recommends City Council approve the agreement with Billings Housing Authority to fund one Police Officer for the period of January 1, 2012, through June 30, 2012.