Mahaska County Grapples with Rising Costs for Police Protection in Small Communities

Community leaders from the smaller cities of Mahaska County met with the Mahaska County Supervisors in an open session to discuss police protection and how to pay for it.

In a recent meeting, Mahaska County Supervisors engaged with mayors and city council members from smaller communities to address the escalating costs of police protection services provided by the Mahaska County Sheriff’s Office. The discussion centered on the financial sustainability of current arrangements and the need for equitable cost-sharing models.

Background

Historically, many small towns in Iowa, including those in Mahaska County, have relied on county sheriff departments for law enforcement services due to limited resources to maintain independent police forces. This collaboration is often formalized through 28E agreements, which are intergovernmental contracts allowing for shared services between governmental entities.

Current Challenges

Supervisor Chuck Webb highlighted that the annual cost for one deputy dedicated to 911 emergency calls is approximately $156,000. This figure does not fully encompass the total resources utilized, as effective coverage typically requires more than one deputy. Webb noted that some cities have not been contributing to these costs, stating, “The cities can go elsewhere for their police protection, but they are currently relying on the county.”

The supervisors are considering a new funding model that would allow cities to purchase additional patrol hours at a rate of $70 per hour. This approach aims to ensure that the financial burden is distributed more equitably among the benefiting communities.

Legal Framework

Under Iowa law, sheriffs have the authority to “keep the peace or prevent the commitment of crime.”

Justia Law
However, the provision of law enforcement services within city limits is not solely the sheriff’s responsibility. The Iowa League of Cities notes that cities are required to provide law enforcement but have the discretion to determine how these services are delivered, whether through their own police departments or through agreements with other agencies.
Iowa League

Cost Considerations for Municipalities

The cost of police protection varies significantly across Iowa municipalities, influenced by factors such as population size, crime rates, and available resources. Some small towns opt to establish their own police departments, while others contract with county sheriff departments. For instance, the city of Robins, with a population of approximately 3,146, operates its own police department at an annual cost of $152,000, with $85,000 allocated for salaries.

In contrast, other communities find it more cost-effective to contract with county sheriffs. These agreements can vary in structure, with some based on a flat fee and others on an hourly rate for services rendered. The Iowa League of Cities provides guidance on creating such contracts, emphasizing the importance of clear terms to ensure mutual understanding and accountability.

Looking Ahead

The Mahaska County Supervisors and local city officials are committed to finding a sustainable solution that balances the need for effective law enforcement with the financial realities of smaller communities. Ongoing discussions will focus on refining the proposed funding model and ensuring that all parties contribute fairly to the shared goal of maintaining public safety.