Colorado Springs' city workforce sees "really shocking" turnover
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Colorado Springs city employees are leaving their jobs at the highest rate in recent years, new city data shows.
Why it matters: High turnover can strain city services, particularly in police and fire departments, where training and experience are crucial.
Driving the news: The mayor's office projects turnover will hit 16.6% this year, up from 15.7% in 2025 and 13.1% in 2023.
- Officials speculated that higher salaries elsewhere and budget cuts are driving the trend.
- In the police department, officials say the number is boosted by retirements.
What they're saying: "There's a point at which people can't do any more with less, and I think our staff is experiencing some real challenges in serving the public with the resources available," Councilmember Nancy Henjum said during a presentation Monday.
The intrigue: A whopping 60% of the city's workforce has turned over since 2023, the city's chief financial officer, Charae McDaniel, confirmed.
- "That's really shocking to me. I think that says a lot about something," Council President Pro Tem Brian Risley said. "I don't know if it's culture or pay or leadership or something, but wow!"
By the numbers: The police and fire departments have the highest turnover rates.
- Fire officials expect to have lost 16.1% of their employees by the end of the year, up from 9.8% in 2025.
- Police project 13.2% turnover for the year, above the 9.8% rate in 2025.
- Civilian departures may slightly decrease to 18.5% from 20.2%.
What we're watching: The mayor's proposed 2027 budget would eliminate furloughs and boost pay to retain workers.
- City employees would be eligible for 2% performance raises, while those paid below market rates could see a 4% bump.
- Police and fire sworn employees would get market-rate pay hikes that vary by rank.
Yes, but: Health insurance costs are increasing. The city will absorb part of that, officials said, but employee premiums will increase between $2 and $60 per paycheck.