Police Chief Jeff Miller has reported to Hollister City Council members that the department logs all overtime and even which duties are necessitated through use of it, but without a mechanism to compile the data, it remains a flawed system of tracking taxpayer dollars that needs fixing.
Miller, to his credit, has pointed out the potential problem with the incomplete reporting. Now, it's up to the Hollister City Council to recognize this is a serious problem that stands to lessen the public's trust in perceptions about keeping records open - if they choose not to address it. The bottom line is that public safety overtime is often necessary, but also adds up quite fast and, if abused, hurts taxpayers at a time they can't afford anymore damage to the wallet.
If a manager like Miller doesn't have the compiled data, it makes it difficult to have a firm grasp on whether the precious dollars are being used appropriately. Even more important, it restricts the public's ability to get answers about their money.
Up to council to make improvement
This isn't a matter of not appreciating police officers for putting in extra time - they're public servants who deserve respect for putting their lives on the line to protect fellow citizens.
This is a matter of watching every dollar and justifying every penny in extremely difficult times for everyone.
We recommend that police officials continue to push for solutions to ensure that citizens are able, if they so choose, to get reasonable answers about the specific direction of their hard-earned money.
With two new council members coming aboard, we encourage the council to consider this matter soon and strengthen the public's trust in government's frugality.
The Free Lance Editorial Board Got a question or a comment? Send us an email.
Although the Hollister Free Lance does not have any obligation to monitor this board, the Hollister Free Lance reserves the right at all times to check this board and to remove any information or materials that are unlawful, threatening, abusive, libelous, defamatory, obscene, vulgar, pornographic, profane, indecent or otherwise objectionable to the Hollister Free Lance in our sole discretion and to disclose any information necessary to satisfy the law, regulation, or government request. The Hollister Free Lance also reserves the right to permanently block any user who violates these terms and conditions. All threats to systems or site infrastructure shall be assumed genuine in nature and will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement authorities. Submission of any comments will be considered permission to use online or in print.
Street Beat: What's your 2009 resolution?
