Increased policing costs may tip Saratoga into a budget deficit

"From last July and December, the city saw revenues increase by $3.4 million and $800,000 in savings from reduced spending. Service charges, property taxes and interest revenue were the main sources of increased income in the last six months, and the city has been able to save money from lower contract and personnel costs and employment vacancies. By January, city staff forecast an operating expense budget of $31.7 million and revenues totaling $36 million."

"However, the city's public safety contract with the sheriff's office is expected to increase by $2.9 million, 33% more than what Saratoga already pays. According to the county, the reason for the increase goes hand in hand with more complexity in policing. They cited expanded state-mandated training regarding the use of force, firearms and de-escalation tactics; greater reliance on technology like body-worn cameras and secure networks and computers; and significantly expanded reporting and accountability requirements, including public records obligations and independent review processes."

Saratoga experienced revenue growth and spending savings between July and December, including $3.4 million in increased revenues and $800,000 from reduced spending. Major revenue gains came from service charges, property taxes and interest income, while savings resulted from lower contract and personnel costs and vacancies. City staff forecasted $31.7 million in operating expenses and $36 million in revenues by January. The sheriff's office public safety contract is projected to rise by $2.9 million (about 33%). The county attributed the increase to more complex policing demands, technology and reporting requirements, and higher recruitment, hiring and training costs.

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