Police overtime draws proposed contingency spending spike
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Denver Police wants $11 million from the city's contingency fund after a spike in overtime tied to large-scale protests, police shootings and an expanded downtown presence this year.
Why it matters: The request spotlights how rising police activity, and its associated costs, is straining Denver's tight budget as city leaders debate how much to invest in public safety rather than other priorities.
The big picture: DPD is asking for $7.5 million in contingency funding for overtime costs this year, city public safety CFO Chanee Cummings revealed Tuesday to a Denver City Council committee.
- DPD projects overtime will cost $15 million total this year.
State of play: Mayor Mike Johnston's administration wants to allocate $13.9 million total for six agencies, including DPD, leaving $20.6 million in the city's contingency fund, which is set aside every year for unexpected costs.
- Other major expenses include $1.2 million to cover settlement payouts and $1 million for unemployment compensation insurance.
- The remaining contingency balance will roll into the city's 2026 fund balance, finance department spokesperson Laura Swartz tells us.
Context: Police chief Ron Thomas told lawmakers on Tuesday the city had 38 "major demonstrations" through Oct. 31, including two large No Kings protests, which drew thousands downtown.
- Homeless encampment removals and 11 police shootings led to additional overtime, which required more staffing, Thomas added.
Between the lines: DPD is requesting an additional $3.5 million from the contingency fund to cover payouts for officers leaving the department, including retirements and lateral moves.
What they're saying: Councilmember Amanda Sawyer called the department's request — nearly 10 times what other agencies are allotted — "startling," noting she hadn't seen such a spending proposal in her six years on council.
What's next: A final vote is scheduled for Dec. 8.