Minneapolis police $19M over budget due to overtime costs

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    Minneapolis Police over budget by $19.6M 

The Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) is expected to overspend by more than $19 million this year — $31 million of which was spent on overtime, up 12% from last year.

“The city needs more cops. Everybody knows that,” said MPD Chief Brian O’Hara. “It’s one of the most understaffed departments, but help is on the way.”

RELATED: MPD investigating 6 officers for alleged overtime misuse; OT costs on pace to hit record-breaking $30 million in 2025 

The department has made 174 new hires, which is costly due to the schooling and training required, which can take up to two years. These new hires are not yet active on the streets, and the rapid growth was unexpected.

Council member Robin Wonsley voiced concerns about the overspending, stating it will inevitably affect other priorities.

“We have other critical issues like homelessness we are responding to,” said Wonsley. “To learn at the midnight hour, we are $20 million over budget; that’s something to be frustrated about.”

The budget is set for approval tomorrow.

RELATED: Double overtime pay for Minneapolis officers ending as staffing reaches highest level in years 
The post Minneapolis police $19M over budget due to overtime costs first appeared on KSTP.com 5 Eyewitness News.