Amarillo's City Council is taking significant steps to enhance public safety and support its police department, as highlighted in the recent workshop held on August 7, 2025. The council discussed a proposed budget for the police department that reflects a modest increase, aiming to bolster morale and operational efficiency.

The current budget stands at $49.2 million, with Police Chief requesting $49.9 million—an increase of $678,000. This request includes a 5% raise for police personnel, which is seen as a crucial factor in maintaining staff morale and effectiveness. City officials noted that the relatively small increase in budget, despite the raise, indicates improved efficiencies within the department.

City Manager insights revealed that the budget strategy allows for adjustments based on council decisions, suggesting that the actual budget could be higher than the initial request. The council is considering pushing the budget closer to $51 million to better align with previous years and to ensure the department is fully staffed, which is a priority for enhancing public safety in Amarillo.

Additionally, the council highlighted a legislative initiative that aims to provide a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for retirees. This initiative, supported by the police association and city management, is set to increase the COLA from 50% to 70%, with an additional $2.1 million allocated in the budget for this purpose. This move is expected to positively impact the morale of current officers and support the community's perception of safety.

As Amarillo continues to address public safety concerns, the council's commitment to investing in its police department and supporting its personnel reflects a proactive approach to fostering a safer environment for residents. The discussions from this workshop set the stage for future decisions that will shape the city's public safety landscape.