The Bee Cave City Council meeting on August 12, 2025, focused on staffing needs within the police department and the use of facial recognition technology in criminal investigations.

During the meeting, the police chief outlined the current staffing situation, noting that there are eight patrol officers, including two recent graduates who are still in training. The chief expressed concerns about the department's ability to respond effectively to calls, particularly during peak hours, due to a lack of manpower. Currently, there are only two officers on day shift and two on evening shift, with no mid-shift officer available. The chief emphasized the need for additional officers to ensure adequate coverage, especially during busy times from noon to midnight.

The chief also mentioned that there are three cadets in training, but it will take approximately 11 to 12 months before they can operate as standalone patrol officers. To address immediate staffing challenges, the chief proposed adding a new officer to the team, which would help improve response times during high-demand periods.

In addition to staffing discussions, the meeting touched on the use of ClearView software, a facial recognition program utilized by the department. The chief highlighted its effectiveness in past investigations, including a notable case involving organized retail theft at Lululemon. However, he noted that the department relies on the Texas Department of Public Safety for support with the software, which can delay its use.

The meeting concluded without any immediate decisions but underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the police department in maintaining adequate staffing levels and utilizing technology for crime-solving. Further discussions and potential actions regarding these issues are expected in future meetings.